Name: Creamy Lemon Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 shallot, diced; 4 garlic cloves, minced; Kosher salt and pepper, to taste; ¾ cup chicken stock; 1 cup heavy cream; 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice; 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi; 1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest; ⅔ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more for topping; Fresh basil, for topping; Crushed red pepper flakes, for topping

Jump to Recipe·5.2 from 15 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that bursts with freshness yet wraps you in comforting creaminess, this Creamy Lemon Gnocchi is going to be your new favorite. Imagine pillowy potato gnocchi bathed in a luscious, tangy lemon cream sauce that’s perfectly balanced with garlic, shallots, and a sprinkling of parmesan. This dish manages to feel both indulgent and bright, making it ideal for when you want something special but simple enough to whip up any night of the week. The zing of lemon is subtle yet unmistakable, creating a beautiful harmony of flavors that keeps you coming back for more.

Creamy Lemon Gnocchi Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward yet essential to crafting the perfect Creamy Lemon Gnocchi. Each one brings a distinct note — from the silky cream to the fresh zing of lemon zest, every component works together to build layers of flavor and texture.

1 tablespoon olive oil: Provides a smooth base for sautéing and adds a subtle fruity richness.
1 shallot, diced: Gives a delicate sweetness that forms the foundation of the sauce’s savory profile.
4 garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a gentle punch without overpowering the lemon.
Kosher salt and pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance all the ingredients’ natural flavors.
¾ cup chicken stock: Brings a savory, umami boost to the sauce, keeping it rich but not heavy.
1 cup heavy cream: Creates that irresistibly creamy texture that clings perfectly to each gnocchi.
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice: The star brightener that enlivens the entire dish with fresh acidity.
1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi: Soft and pillowy, they soak up the luscious sauce beautifully.
1 tablespoon fresh lemon zest: Adds an extra punch of citrus aroma and flavor.
⅔ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese, plus more for topping: Brings a salty, nutty finish that enhances creaminess and depth.
Fresh basil, for topping: Provides a fragrant, herbaceous contrast that brightens each bite.
Crushed red pepper, for topping: Adds a subtle heat that livens up the dish without overpowering the lemon notes.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Gnocchi

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics

Start by warming the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Gently cook the diced shallots and minced garlic with a pinch of kosher salt and black pepper until they soften and become fragrant—about five minutes. This step is key for unlocking those deep, savory flavors that will build the foundation of your sauce.

Step 2: Combine the liquids and gnocchi

Next, stir in the chicken stock, heavy cream, and fresh lemon juice. Once combined, add the uncooked potato gnocchi directly into the skillet. Bring the mixture up to a boil before reducing it to a simmer. Keep stirring often to prevent sticking and to allow the gnocchi to cook perfectly while the sauce thickens and becomes luxuriously creamy. This usually takes about five to six minutes.

Step 3: Finish with zest and parmesan

Once the gnocchi are tender and the sauce has thickened, stir in the fresh lemon zest and grated parmesan cheese. These finishing touches add bursts of flavor and an incredible texture to the dish. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper as needed. Your Creamy Lemon Gnocchi is now ready to shine!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Gnocchi

Garnishes

Topping your Creamy Lemon Gnocchi with fresh basil leaves lifts the dish with a burst of green herbal freshness. Add a sprinkle of extra parmesan for a cheesy, salty drizzle on each forkful. Don’t forget crushed red pepper flakes—they introduce a subtle warmth that perfectly complements the zingy lemon sauce.

Side Dishes

Because this dish is rich and flavorful, pairing it with simple side options works beautifully. Consider lightly dressed arugula salad or steamed asparagus to add a crisp, fresh contrast. For a heartier touch, garlic-roasted vegetables or a crunchy bread to soak up the sauce make excellent companions.

Creative Ways to Present

Dress up your Creamy Lemon Gnocchi by serving it in shallow, wide bowls to showcase those tender gnocchi pods swimming in the sauce. A drizzle of extra virgin olive oil and a few microgreens on top can add a bit of elegance and freshness. For a fun twist, bake the finished gnocchi briefly with an extra sprinkle of parmesan to create a subtle cheesy crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let your Creamy Lemon Gnocchi cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, it will stay fresh for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen a bit, making leftovers just as delightful.

Freezing

Freezing cream-based gnocchi dishes can be tricky as the texture of the sauce may change. If you want to freeze, portion the gnocchi and sauce separately if possible. The gnocchi freezes well on its own, but it’s best to thaw and add a freshly made lemon cream sauce later for maximum flavor and creaminess.

Reheating

Gently reheat the leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often to prevent the sauce from separating. If the sauce appears too thick, add a splash of cream or chicken stock to bring it back to that perfect, silky consistency. Avoid microwaving if you want to keep the sauce smooth and rich.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works wonderfully and cuts down prep time significantly. Just be sure to cook them according to package instructions before adding to the sauce if needed.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Most potato gnocchi are gluten-free, but it’s essential to check the label if you have gluten sensitivities since some brands include flour. This recipe itself uses naturally gluten-free ingredients.

Can I substitute the chicken stock with vegetable stock?

Yes! Vegetable stock makes a fantastic substitute for chicken stock if you prefer a vegetarian option or want a lighter broth base. It will still provide a lovely depth of flavor.

Can I make the sauce vegan?

To make a vegan version, swap the heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream alternative and use a dairy-free parmesan substitute. Olive oil can replace the butter flavor, and vegetable broth can take the stock’s place.

How do I keep the sauce from splitting?

Keep the heat moderate when simmering the sauce, and avoid rapid boiling once the cream is added. Stir gently and frequently, and add the cheese toward the end to help stabilize the richness and keep the sauce velvety.

Final Thoughts

If you’ve been searching for a dish that feels both cozy and bright, the Creamy Lemon Gnocchi is an unforgettable answer. It’s stunningly simple yet packed with layers of flavor that make every bite exciting. I hope you’ll give it a try soon and discover how easy it is to create something truly special with just a handful of beautifully balanced ingredients.