Millionaire Gnocchi

Millionaire Gnocchi is a decadent, ultra-creamy, and flavor-packed dish that turns humble potato gnocchi into a luxurious comfort food experience. With rich cheese, garlic butter, and savory touches like crispy prosciutto or mushrooms, this dish feels indulgent and elegant—perfect for cozy nights in or dinner parties where you want to impress without the fuss.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Lusciously creamy and cheesy without being heavy
  • A restaurant-quality dish you can make in under 30 minutes
  • Versatile—add your favorite proteins or veggies
  • Perfect for weeknight indulgence or date night
  • Uses store-bought gnocchi for easy prep, or homemade for extra flair

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

  • Potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
  • Butter
  • Garlic, minced
  • Heavy cream
  • Parmesan cheese, grated
  • Gruyère or fontina cheese, shredded
  • Salt
  • Black pepper
  • Nutmeg (optional)
  • Fresh parsley or chives (for garnish)
  • Optional additions: crispy prosciutto, sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or truffle oil

directions

  1. Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface (about 2–3 minutes). Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  3. Pour in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan and Gruyère, and season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of nutmeg if using. Stir until cheese is melted and sauce is smooth.
  4. Combine: Add cooked gnocchi to the sauce and toss gently to coat. Let simmer for 1–2 minutes to thicken slightly.
  5. Add optional toppings: Fold in sautéed mushrooms or spinach, or top with crispy prosciutto or a drizzle of truffle oil for a true “millionaire” touch.
  6. Serve: Garnish with chopped parsley or chives and extra cheese if desired. Serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves 3–4.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 15 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

  • Add protein: Stir in shredded rotisserie chicken or grilled shrimp
  • Make it vegetarian: Add roasted butternut squash, mushrooms, or spinach
  • Try blue cheese: Add a touch of gorgonzola for deeper flavor
  • Use cauliflower gnocchi: For a lighter, lower-carb version
  • Top and bake: Add breadcrumbs and broil for a golden, crispy finish

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of cream or milk to restore creaminess.
Freezing is not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate.

FAQs

What is “Millionaire Gnocchi”?

It’s a rich and creamy gnocchi dish made with luxurious cheeses and optional gourmet toppings like prosciutto or truffle oil.

Can I make this ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can make the sauce and cook the gnocchi in advance, then reheat gently before serving.

What’s the best cheese to use?

Parmesan and Gruyère or fontina create a great combo of flavor and meltability.

Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Absolutely—homemade gnocchi makes this dish even more special.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, as long as you skip the prosciutto or replace it with vegetarian-friendly toppings.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

You can, but the sauce will be thinner and less rich. Use whole milk for best results.

Can I bake this dish?

Yes—after tossing the gnocchi in sauce, transfer to a baking dish, top with cheese and breadcrumbs, and broil until golden.

How do I make it more garlicky?

Add roasted garlic or double the fresh garlic for a stronger kick.

What side dishes go with Millionaire Gnocchi?

A crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted veggies pair beautifully.

Can I make this gluten-free?

Yes—just use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure the cheeses and other ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Millionaire Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort food upgrade—creamy, cheesy, and filled with flavor that feels as indulgent as its name suggests. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself, this easy yet elegant dish is sure to impress and satisfy. Once you try it, you’ll keep coming back for more.

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Millionaire Gnocchi

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Millionaire Gnocchi is a rich, creamy, ultra-indulgent dish that combines pillowy gnocchi with a luxurious Parmesan cream sauce, crispy pancetta, and crunchy toasted breadcrumbs. It’s comfort food elevated—perfect for a special dinner or when you want to treat yourself.

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 23 servings 1x
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-inspired

Ingredients

Scale

For the Gnocchi:

  • 1 lb store-bought or homemade potato gnocchi

  • Salt, for boiling water

For the Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter

  • 2 oz pancetta or thick-cut bacon, diced

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 teaspoon fresh thyme leaves (or ½ tsp dried)

  • ½ cup heavy cream

  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for topping)

  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

  • Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional)

For the Breadcrumb Topping:

  • ½ cup fresh breadcrumbs (or panko)

  • 1 tablespoon butter

  • Pinch of salt

Instructions

  1. Toast the Breadcrumbs:
    In a small skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add breadcrumbs and a pinch of salt. Toast, stirring often, until golden and crisp (about 4–5 minutes). Set aside.

  2. Cook the Gnocchi:
    Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until they float. Drain and set aside.

  3. Make the Sauce:
    In a large skillet over medium heat, cook pancetta until crispy. Add garlic and thyme; cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
    Pour in the cream, bring to a simmer, then reduce heat. Stir in Parmesan, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let sauce thicken slightly, 2–3 minutes.

  4. Combine:
    Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce. Cook 1–2 minutes to let flavors meld.

  5. Serve:
    Divide gnocchi among bowls and top with toasted breadcrumbs and extra Parmesan. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Add sautéed spinach or peas for a bit of green.

  • Swap pancetta for mushrooms for a vegetarian twist.

  • Use homemade gnocchi for an extra luxe version!

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