Creamy Boursin Gnocchi Recipe Easy 20-Minute Dinner Idea

Name: Creamy Boursin Gnocchi Recipe Easy 20-Minute Dinner Idea
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 20 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 16 ounces potato gnocchi; 5.2 ounces Boursin cheese (garlic and herb flavor); 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 tablespoons unsalted butter; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 cups baby spinach; Salt and pepper to taste; Optional: fresh parsley for garnish; Optional: crushed red pepper flakes for garnish

Posted on November 18, 2025

Picture this: pillowy soft gnocchi swirled in a luxuriously creamy, garlicky sauce that’s bursting with flavor. The first time I made this Creamy Boursin Gnocchi, I couldn’t believe how easy it was to whip up such a decadent dish in under 20 minutes. One bite and it felt like I had been transported to a cozy little bistro in the heart of Italy. My family? They couldn’t stop digging in, and neither could I! This is the kind of recipe that’s perfect for everything from a quick weeknight dinner to a classy date-night meal at home. Trust me, you’re going to want to bookmark this one—it’s that good!

Years ago, I was introduced to Boursin cheese at a dinner party, and it was love at first bite. Its creamy, garlicky goodness with a hint of herbs makes it a game-changer for recipes, and this gnocchi dish is no exception. I’ve spent countless evenings perfecting this recipe because, honestly, it’s the sort of comfort food that makes you pause and savor life for a moment. Plus, who doesn’t love a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious?

Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or simply treating yourself, this Creamy Boursin Gnocchi will win over hearts and stomachs alike. It’s that rare combination of rich, indulgent, and surprisingly simple. So grab a fork, because you’re about to dive into pasta heaven!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick & Easy: Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights or when you’re craving comfort food in a pinch.
Minimal Ingredients: You only need a handful of simple ingredients to create this restaurant-quality dish—no fancy shopping list required.
Versatile: Perfect for family dinners, romantic evenings, or even holiday gatherings. It’s elegant yet approachable.
Creamy and Dreamy: The Boursin cheese makes the sauce so velvety and flavorful, you’ll be licking the plate clean.
A Crowd Pleaser: This dish is loved by kids, adults, and everyone in between. It’s the kind of recipe that people will ask for again and again.

What sets this recipe apart is the Boursin cheese—it’s the hero that takes the sauce from good to unforgettable. The garlic and herb flavors pair beautifully with the soft gnocchi, creating a balanced dish that’s indulgent but not overpowering. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is foolproof and guaranteed to impress. Plus, it’s a great way to make a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen!

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver a decadent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Most of these items are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

Potato gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe, but if you’re feeling ambitious, homemade gnocchi is always a treat.
Boursin cheese: Garlic and herb flavor is my go-to, but feel free to experiment with other varieties like shallot and chive.
Heavy cream: Adds richness to the sauce and helps create that silky texture.
Grated Parmesan cheese: For extra cheesy goodness and a touch of saltiness.
Unsalted butter: A dollop of butter makes everything better, doesn’t it?
Garlic: Freshly minced garlic adds a depth of flavor that complements the Boursin beautifully.
Baby spinach: A handful of fresh spinach gives the dish a pop of color and a healthy twist.
Salt and pepper: To taste. Don’t skip these—they bring all the flavors together.

Optional ingredients:

Fresh parsley: For a bright, herby garnish.
Crushed red pepper flakes: Add a touch of heat if you’re feeling bold.

If you need substitutions, don’t worry! You can use dairy-free alternatives for the cream and cheese to make this recipe vegan-friendly. For a gluten-free option, simply swap in gluten-free gnocchi. This dish is super forgiving, so feel free to tweak it as needed.

Equipment Needed

Here’s all the equipment you’ll need to whip up this Creamy Boursin Gnocchi:

Large skillet: Use a non-stick or stainless steel skillet to prepare the sauce.
Pot: For boiling the gnocchi.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for stirring the sauce without damaging your skillet.
Colander: To drain the gnocchi.
Chef’s knife: For mincing garlic and chopping spinach.

If you don’t have a large skillet, a medium-sized saucepan works just as well. And for those who love multitasking, consider investing in a multi-purpose pot with a built-in strainer—it saves time and cleanup!

Preparation Method

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes. The gnocchi will float to the top when done. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream to the skillet, stirring gently to combine. Let the cream warm up for about 1-2 minutes.
Add the Boursin cheese to the skillet, breaking it up with the wooden spoon as it melts into the cream. Stir continuously to create a smooth, velvety sauce.
Sprinkle in the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until it’s fully incorporated. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed.
Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the sauce, ensuring each piece is evenly coated.
Finally, toss in the baby spinach and stir until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes.
Serve immediately, garnished with fresh parsley and a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if desired.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Keep an eye on the pot while the gnocchi cooks. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. As soon as they float, scoop them out!
Use Fresh Garlic: While garlic powder might seem easier, fresh garlic truly makes a difference in flavor for this recipe.
Warm the Cream: Always warm the cream gently to prevent curdling. Stir constantly for a smooth consistency.
Be Gentle with Gnocchi: When folding the gnocchi into the sauce, be careful not to mash them—they’re delicate and deserve some TLC.
Customize the Flavor: If you love bold flavors, don’t hesitate to add extra garlic or sprinkle in fresh herbs like thyme or basil.

Variations & Adaptations

Make It Vegan: Swap the Boursin cheese with a dairy-free alternative and use plant-based cream instead of heavy cream.
Add Protein: Grilled chicken, cooked shrimp, or crispy bacon bits are all excellent additions to make it heartier.
Vegetarian Twist: Mix in roasted vegetables like zucchini, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms for an extra layer of flavor.
Spicy Version: Add a teaspoon of your favorite chili paste or hot sauce to the sauce for a little kick.
Seasonal Swap: Use kale or arugula instead of spinach for a slightly different taste and texture.

The beauty of this recipe is how easily it adapts to whatever you have on hand. Let your creativity (or fridge contents) inspire you!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Creamy Boursin Gnocchi is best served fresh and hot, straight from the skillet. Pair it with a crisp green salad or some crusty garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of white wine or sparkling water with a splash of lemon makes a lovely beverage companion.

Got leftovers? Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid reheating in the microwave as it may affect the texture of the gnocchi.

Pro Tip: The flavors deepen overnight, so don’t be surprised if your leftovers taste even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This Creamy Boursin Gnocchi recipe is indulgent yet packed with good-for-you ingredients:

Calories: Approximately 450 per serving
Protein: Thanks to the Boursin cheese and Parmesan, this dish offers a nice dose of protein.
Calcium: Both the cheese and cream contribute to your daily calcium intake, supporting healthy bones.
Iron: The spinach adds a boost of iron, an important mineral for energy and overall health.

For those with dietary restrictions, this recipe can easily be adjusted to be gluten-free or vegan. Just be mindful of any potential allergens in the cheese and cream when selecting substitutes.

Conclusion

This Creamy Boursin Gnocchi recipe is one of those meals that truly feels like a warm hug. It’s quick, easy, and packed with irresistible flavors that will make you come back to it time and time again. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to something special, this dish is a winner.

So go ahead, grab that Boursin cheese, and let’s make dinner something to remember tonight!

FAQs

Can I use homemade gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi will work beautifully with this dish. Just make sure they’re firm enough to hold their shape when mixed with the sauce.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Simply swap out the regular gnocchi for a gluten-free version. Most grocery stores carry gluten-free options that work perfectly in this recipe.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat the leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat. Add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce and stir occasionally until warm.

Can I freeze this dish?

While the gnocchi itself can be frozen, the creamy sauce may separate when reheated. If you plan to freeze leftovers, consider freezing the sauce and gnocchi separately for better results.

How can I make this dish more filling?

You can add protein like grilled chicken, shrimp, or even crumbled sausage to make it heartier. Roasted vegetables are another great option for a veggie-packed twist!

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Creamy Boursin Gnocchi recipe