Imagine pillowy-soft gnocchi cloaked in the most decadent, velvety cream sauce, finished with a hint of herbs and golden sear. This dish isn’t just comfort food—it’s luxury in a bowl. The gnocchi absorbs the rich flavors while maintaining that perfect chew, making every bite more irresistible than the last.

Millionaire Gnocchi gets its name from the indulgent blend of ingredients that feel utterly rich without being overly complicated. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or enjoying a cozy night in, this dish impresses with minimal effort. Creamy, cheesy, and aromatic, it’s the ultimate pasta experience dressed to the nines.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Getting this luxurious dish just right starts with having the proper tools on hand. Each plays a key role in ensuring the gnocchi is golden, and the sauce is silky smooth:

Large Nonstick Skillet: Crucial for searing the gnocchi until it has that irresistible golden crust without sticking.
Saucepan: Needed to prepare the cream sauce separately to control its texture and thickness.
Whisk: Essential for creating a lump-free, smooth sauce.

Tongs or Slotted Spoon: Helps gently turn the gnocchi so it doesn’t break apart while cooking.
Microplane or Fine Grater: For grating fresh parmesan or garlic to melt quickly into the sauce.

These tools help elevate a simple gnocchi dish into something that looks and tastes restaurant-worthy.

Ingredients for the Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce

Potato Gnocchi: The foundation of the dish. Light, fluffy, and designed to soak up the creamy sauce beautifully.
Heavy Cream: Brings that rich, luxurious texture to the sauce that defines this dish.
Fresh Garlic: Adds depth and aromatic sharpness that cuts through the richness.

Parmesan Cheese: Melts into the sauce for a salty, nutty flavor that enhances every bite.
Butter: Helps sear the gnocchi and build flavor in the sauce.
Olive Oil: Used alongside butter for even searing and to prevent burning.

Fresh Parsley or Chives: Brightens up the dish and adds a fresh herbal note.
Salt & Black Pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and elevate all the ingredients.
Optional: White Wine or a dash of Nutmeg: For a subtle complexity and warmth.

How To Make the Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce

Step 1: Sear the Gnocchi

In a large nonstick skillet, heat a combination of butter and olive oil over medium heat. Add the gnocchi in a single layer and sear until golden on both sides, about 3–4 minutes per side. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Cream Sauce

In a separate saucepan over medium-low heat, melt butter and add minced garlic. Cook until fragrant (about 1 minute), then pour in heavy cream. Whisk continuously until slightly thickened. Add grated parmesan cheese, a pinch of salt, and cracked black pepper. Stir until smooth.

Step 3: Combine and Finish

Return the seared gnocchi to the skillet and pour the creamy sauce over it. Stir gently to coat each piece. Simmer for a couple of minutes to let the flavors marry. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or chives right before serving.

How to Serve and Store Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce

Serve this dish hot, right out of the skillet, while the sauce is still luscious and the gnocchi crisp on the outside. Garnish with extra parmesan, a sprig of rosemary, or fresh herbs for that finishing touch. It pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

To store leftovers, transfer the gnocchi to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or milk to revive the sauce without drying it out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make the gnocchi rubbery.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of gnocchi works best for this recipe?

Shelf-stable potato gnocchi or homemade gnocchi both work beautifully. Avoid frozen gnocchi unless it’s fully thawed and patted dry before searing.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely. Grilled chicken, pancetta, or crispy prosciutto make excellent additions and turn this into a heartier main course.

Is there a dairy-free version of this?

You can substitute the cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free cheese alternative, though the flavor and richness will slightly differ.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can prep the sauce and sear the gnocchi separately. Combine and heat just before serving.

How do I make it spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while cooking or top with chili oil for a fiery twist.

Will the gnocchi stay crispy in the sauce?

Only briefly. The longer they sit, the more they absorb the sauce. Serve right away to enjoy the contrast of crispy edges and creamy coating.

Want More Pasta Ideas?

If you’re craving more cozy and creamy dishes like this Millionaire Gnocchi, you’ll love these favorites from Life With Olivia:

Creamy Garlic Butter Chicken Rotini in Parmesan Sauce — a one-pan wonder loaded with comfort.
Cheesy Garlic Chicken and Broccoli Pasta — full of veggies and indulgent flavor.
One Skillet Spicy Honey BBQ Sausage Pasta — a sweet and spicy twist on classic pasta.

Beef and Bowtie Pasta with Alfredo Sauce — rich, creamy, and ready in minutes.
Creamy Honey Buffalo Steak Pasta Bake — bold, flavorful, and baked to bubbly perfection.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest pasta board so you can come back to it any time: Follow Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And I’d love to know—did you make yours with white wine or keep it simple? Maybe you added crispy pancetta on top?

Drop a comment below and let me know how you made this recipe your own. Questions welcome too—let’s make every bite better together!

Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce

Author: Olivia McKenney

Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 2–3 servings
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Millionaire Gnocchi with Creamy Sauce is an indulgent pasta dish where pillowy gnocchi is seared to golden perfection and coated in a rich, velvety garlic-parmesan cream sauce. Simple yet elegant, this recipe transforms everyday ingredients into something worthy of a special dinner—comforting, luxurious, and deeply satisfying.