Name: Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade); 1 tbsp olive oil or butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 3/4 cup heavy cream or half-and-half; 4 cups fresh spinach (or 1 1/2 cups frozen, thawed and drained); 3/4 cup crumbled feta cheese; Salt and black pepper to taste; Optional: 1 tsp lemon zest; Optional: pinch of red pepper flakes

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Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is a quick, satisfying dish that’s full of flavor and comforting textures. Tender potato gnocchi are coated in a rich, creamy sauce with fresh spinach and tangy feta cheese, creating a simple yet indulgent meal I can throw together in under 30 minutes. It’s one of those recipes I turn to when I want something cozy and satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this dish combines minimal ingredients into something that feels totally luxurious. The gnocchi are soft and pillowy, the spinach adds freshness, and the feta brings a salty, tangy edge that balances the creaminess perfectly. It’s a great meatless option that still feels hearty and filling, and it works for both weeknight dinners and casual entertaining.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
Fresh spinach (or frozen, thawed and drained)
Feta cheese, crumbled
Heavy cream or half-and-half
Garlic, minced
Olive oil or butter
Salt
Black pepper
Lemon zest (optional, for brightness)
Red pepper flakes (optional, for a hint of heat)

Directions

I bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions — usually until they float to the top, about 2–3 minutes. I drain and set them aside.
In a large skillet, I heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. I add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
I pour in the cream and bring it to a gentle simmer, seasoning with salt and black pepper.
I stir in the spinach and cook until wilted (or heated through if using frozen).
I add the cooked gnocchi to the pan and toss gently in the sauce until coated.
I crumble in the feta cheese and stir until partially melted, creating a creamy, tangy sauce.
I finish with a sprinkle of lemon zest or red pepper flakes if I want a little extra zing.
I serve it warm, optionally garnished with more feta or a handful of fresh herbs.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3–4.
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 15 minutes
Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

I sometimes stir in sun-dried tomatoes or chopped olives for extra Mediterranean flair. If I want added protein, grilled chicken or chickpeas make great additions. For a dairy-free version, I use coconut cream and a vegan feta alternative. I’ve also used kale in place of spinach with great results.

Storage/reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. I avoid microwaving for too long, as the feta can get grainy.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, I use frozen gnocchi all the time. I cook them straight from frozen — no need to thaw — just follow the boiling instructions on the package.

What can I use instead of cream?

I’ve used half-and-half, whole milk, or even a mix of milk and cream cheese for a lighter version. Coconut cream works for a dairy-free option.

Is feta too salty for this recipe?

Feta adds a nice tang and saltiness, but I always taste the sauce before adding extra salt. I use a reduced-sodium feta if I want more control over the flavor.

Can I bake this dish?

Yes, I’ve transferred the finished gnocchi to a baking dish, topped it with more feta and a sprinkle of Parmesan, and baked it at 375°F for about 15 minutes until bubbly and golden.

What type of gnocchi works best?

I usually go with classic potato gnocchi, but cauliflower gnocchi or even whole wheat versions work great for different dietary needs.

Conclusion

Creamy Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta is a quick, comforting dish that never fails to satisfy. I love how simple it is to make, yet it tastes like something you’d get at a cozy little café. Whether I’m cooking for myself or sharing with others, this rich, cheesy, and slightly tangy dish always disappears fast — and it’s definitely earned a spot in my regular meal rotation.