Description

The moment creamy sauce meets soft, pillowy gnocchi, you realize this dish plays in a different comfort-food league. Millionaire-style gnocchi delivers indulgence without complexity, combining melt-in-your-mouth dumplings with a velvety coating that hugs every bite. It’s rich, satisfying, and built to impress — the kind of meal that quietly steals the spotlight at the table.

This recipe turns simple ingredients into something that tastes restaurant-worthy. The gnocchi stay tender, the sauce stays silky, and together they create a balance of texture and flavor that feels both cozy and elevated. If you enjoy dishes that look fancy but cook easily, this one deserves a permanent spot in your rotation.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound gnocchi (fresh or packaged)
2 tablespoons butter
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 cup heavy cream
1 cup grated Parmesan
½ cup chopped fresh basil
Salt and black pepper, as needed
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil leaves, for finishing

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

Instructions

Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package directions until they rise to the surface. Drain gently.
Build the garlic base: While the gnocchi cooks, warm butter and olive oil in a wide skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and cook briefly until aromatic — about one minute.
Create the cream sauce: Pour in the cream and stir to combine with the garlic. Let the mixture bubble softly for several minutes so it thickens slightly.
Incorporate the cheese: Gradually whisk in Parmesan until the sauce turns smooth and glossy.
Season to taste: Add salt, pepper, and optional chili flakes. Adjust until balanced.
Combine everything: Transfer the cooked gnocchi into the skillet and toss gently to coat them fully in the sauce.
Add herbs: Fold in chopped basil for freshness and color.
Finish cooking: Lower the heat and let everything simmer together briefly so the flavors meld.
Serve: Plate immediately and garnish with fresh basil.

Notes

Serving Suggestions

Presentation makes a difference with a dish this rich.
Serve in shallow bowls so the sauce pools beautifully
Top with extra Parmesan and herbs for contrast
Pair with a crisp salad or garlic bread for texture balance
A chilled white wine complements the creamy flavors
Finish with a drizzle of olive oil just before serving
Enjoy warm for the best texture and flavor. Reheat leftovers gently to keep the sauce smooth.

Helpful Tips

Salt your cooking water generously — gnocchi absorb seasoning quickly
Add cheese slowly to prevent clumping
Keep cream sauces over moderate heat to avoid separation
Try fresh herbs like thyme or parsley for variation
Swap Parmesan with Pecorino or plant-based cheese if desired
Stir in sautéed greens or roasted tomatoes for extra nutrition
A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens the richness

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner