Do Share Recipe

Creamy Spicy Gnocchi Recipe | Rich & Flavorful Pasta

I first made this creamy spicy gnocchi recipe on a busy weeknight when I wanted something comforting but still exciting. As soon as the sauce started bubbling, the smell alone made me excited to sit down and eat.

The balance of creamy texture with just the right amount of heat reminded me of dishes like Creamy Pepper Jack Stuffed Chicken Breast Recipe. I loved how simple ingredients turned into such a bold, satisfying dish. After one bite, I knew this recipe was going into my regular dinner rotation.

Ingredients Section

Each ingredient in this recipe plays an important role, and using good-quality versions really makes a difference:

16 oz potato gnocchi – shelf-stable gnocchi works best because it holds its shape and texture in the sauce.
2 tablespoons of olive oil – helps build flavor and prevents the sauce from sticking.
1 teaspoon minced garlic – fresh garlic adds a stronger, cleaner flavor than jarred garlic.
3 tablespoons tomato paste – gives the sauce depth, richness, and a slightly sweet backbone.
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes – the main source of spice; adjust based on your heat tolerance.
½ cup chopped roasted red peppers – adds sweetness and a subtle smoky flavor.
½ cup heavy cream – creates a rich, silky texture that balances the spice.
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – melts smoothly and enhances the overall flavor.
Kosher salt and black pepper – essential for balancing all the flavors.

Note: This recipe makes approximately 4 servings based on the ingredient quantities listed.

Variations

This creamy spicy gnocchi is easy to customize based on your preferences or dietary needs:

Dairy-Free Option: Swap the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use dairy-free Parmesan.
Add Protein: Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy tofu for a heartier meal. You can also enjoy a Feta Spinach Stuffed French Bread Recipe alongside for a complementary protein-rich option.
Extra Vegetables: Mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini work beautifully in the sauce.
Less Spicy Version: Reduce the red pepper flakes or replace them with mild paprika.

Cooking Time

This recipe is quick and perfect for busy days:

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Total Time: About 30 minutes

Equipment You Need

These tools will help you prepare the dish smoothly:

Large Pot – used to boil the gnocchi evenly.
Colander – drains gnocchi while saving some cooking water.
Large Skillet or Pan – where the creamy sauce comes together.
Wooden Spoon or Spatula – for stirring without damaging cookware.
Measuring Cups and Spoons – ensures accurate ingredient amounts.

How to Make Creamy Spicy Gnocchi Recipe

This dish comes together in just a few simple steps.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi until they float to the surface and become tender. Before draining, reserve about half a cup of the cooking water. Drain the gnocchi and set aside while preparing the sauce.

Prepare the Sauce Base

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the tomato paste, garlic, red pepper flakes, and chopped roasted red peppers. Stir continuously for a few minutes until the mixture becomes fragrant and slightly darker in color.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream along with a splash of the reserved gnocchi water. Stir gently and let the sauce simmer until slightly thickened. Add Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper, adjusting to taste.

Combine and Finish

Add the cooked gnocchi directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently until each piece is fully coated. Let everything warm together for another minute, then remove from heat and serve.

Additional Tips for Making this Recipe Better

After making this recipe several times, these tips really helped elevate the final dish:

I always reserve gnocchi water because it helps bind the sauce perfectly.
I avoid overcooking the gnocchi so they stay soft but not mushy.
I like adding extra cheese at the end for a richer finish.
Toasting the red pepper flakes briefly enhances their flavor without adding bitterness.

How to Serve Creamy Spicy Gnocchi Recipe

This dish looks and tastes even better with a few simple serving ideas:

Top with extra grated Parmesan for a restaurant-style look.
Add fresh basil or parsley for color and freshness.
Serve with garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Pair with a crisp green salad to balance the richness.

Nutritional Information

Below is an approximate nutritional breakdown per serving:

Calories: ~376 per serving
Protein: ~9.6 grams
Carbohydrates: ~49.8 grams
Fat: ~16.1 grams

Make Ahead and Storage

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

Cream-based sauces don’t freeze well, so freezing is not recommended. If needed, freeze the sauce before adding cream and finish fresh when reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Microwave reheating also works for quick meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

There are so many reasons this creamy spicy gnocchi deserves a spot on your menu:

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights with minimal prep.
Customizable: Easy to adjust spice, protein, and ingredients.
Comforting: Creamy, warm, and deeply satisfying.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple, affordable pantry staples.
Great Leftovers: Reheats well and tastes just as delicious the next day.

Ben Carraoli