Are you ready to savor a dish that oozes comfort? My Creamy Roasted Red Pepper Gnocchi is a delightful blend of flavors that will impress anyone at your table. Made with simple ingredients, it’s easy to whip up and incredibly satisfying. Follow my step-by-step guide to create this dreamy dish that will have you coming back for seconds. Let’s dive into the magic of creamy goodness!
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
– 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 large red bell peppers
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Gathering the right ingredients is key to making creamy roasted red pepper gnocchi. You can use store-bought gnocchi for speed or make your own for fun. The two large red bell peppers give the dish its vibrant color and sweet taste. Heavy cream makes the sauce rich and luscious. The freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a savory touch. Olive oil and minced garlic bring depth of flavor. Smoked paprika adds a unique, smoky taste, while salt and pepper balance the dish. Fresh basil leaves are perfect for a bright, finishing touch.
Every ingredient plays a role in making this dish a dreamy delight.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preheat and Prepare
– Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
– Prepare the baking sheet with parchment paper.
Roast the Bell Peppers
– Slice and seed the red bell peppers.
– Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes.
I love watching the peppers roast. The skin gets blistered and charred, which adds great flavor. Once they cool, the skins peel away easily. This is a key step that boosts the taste of the sauce.
Make the Sauce
– Blend roasted peppers with cream, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
– Sauté garlic in olive oil.
In a blender, mix the roasted peppers, heavy cream, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth. This creates a creamy and bright sauce. In a skillet, add olive oil and sauté minced garlic for about one minute. The smell will fill your kitchen and get you excited for the dish.
Combine Gnocchi and Sauce
– Cook gnocchi until they float, then drain.
– Mix gnocchi with the cream sauce and Parmesan cheese.
Cook the gnocchi in salted water. Once they float, they are ready! Drain them and add them to the sauce in the skillet. Toss gently to coat every piece. Then, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese on top. Stir until it melts. This mix makes the dish so rich and tasty.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Creamy Texture
– Use fresh heavy cream for best results.
– Blend until completely smooth.
To get that perfect creamy texture in your sauce, fresh heavy cream is a must. It adds richness that makes each bite delightful. When blending, ensure no lumps remain. A smooth sauce coats the gnocchi better. This is key for a dreamy dish!
Flavor Enhancements
– Experiment with adding herbs like thyme or oregano.
– Consider a splash of lemon juice for brightness.
Herbs can take your dish to the next level. Adding thyme or oregano brings depth. A splash of lemon juice adds a bright, fresh taste. This balance of flavors makes the dish pop!
Cooking Gnocchi Perfectly
– Salt water before boiling for added flavor.
– Watch for gnocchi to float as an indicator of doneness.
Cooking gnocchi is simple but important. Salt your water first. This step gives flavor right from the start. When the gnocchi float, they are ready. This is your cue to drain them. Perfectly cooked gnocchi makes your meal shine!

Variations
Substitutions
You can try different cheeses in this dish. Goat cheese or feta can add a tangy flavor. They melt well and blend nicely. If you want a faster prep time, use roasted red peppers from a jar. This saves time and effort without losing flavor.
Add-In Ideas
Want to make your gnocchi even better? Add sautéed spinach or mushrooms for extra taste. They bring a nice texture and nutrition. You can also add protein like grilled chicken or shrimp. This makes your meal more filling and hearty.
Dietary Modifications
If you’re looking for gluten-free options, there are many brands of gluten-free gnocchi. They taste great and work well in this dish. For those on a vegan diet, use plant-based cream and cheese. This way, everyone can enjoy this creamy roasted red pepper gnocchi!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your creamy roasted red pepper gnocchi fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge. This dish tastes best when you eat it within 2-3 days. The flavors stay rich and vibrant during this time.
Reheating Tips
When you reheat your gnocchi, do it gently. Use the stove and add small amounts of cream. This helps keep the sauce smooth. If you use a microwave, be careful. Heat it in short bursts to avoid overcooking, which can ruin the texture.
Freezing Instructions
If you need to save some gnocchi for later, freeze it. Make sure to freeze the gnocchi separately from the sauce. This keeps both parts at their best. When you are ready to eat, thaw everything in the fridge overnight before reheating. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty.
FAQs
How do I make homemade gnocchi?
To make homemade gnocchi, you need just a few simple ingredients. You will need:
– 2 lbs of potatoes
– 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
– 1 egg
– A pinch of salt
Start by boiling the potatoes until soft. Then, peel and mash them in a bowl. Mix in the flour, egg, and salt. Knead the dough lightly. Roll it into long ropes and cut into small pieces. Use a fork to create ridges on each piece. This helps sauce stick to the gnocchi.
Can I use jarred roasted red peppers?
Yes, you can use jarred roasted red peppers. They save time and are still tasty. Just drain and rinse them to remove excess liquid. Blend them with cream and spices as you would with fresh peppers. This shortcut makes the dish quicker while still full of flavor.
What is the best way to serve creamy roasted red pepper gnocchi?
Serve creamy roasted red pepper gnocchi in shallow bowls. This way, everyone can enjoy the sauce. Top with fresh basil and extra Parmesan cheese. This adds color and flavor. You can also serve it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead. Prepare the sauce and gnocchi separately. Store them in airtight containers in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce and cook the gnocchi just before mixing. This keeps the flavors fresh and delicious.
This blog post shared a tasty recipe for creamy roasted red pepper gnocchi. You learned about the key ingredients, steps to prepare, and cooking tips. Each part builds a delicious dish you can enjoy. Remember, you can make variations and use different ingredients to fit your taste. Whether you choose to add protein or adjust for dietary needs, this recipe is flexible. Try it out, and enjoy cooking!
