Oh, how I adore those cozy nights when the aroma of something delicious wafts through the kitchen! There’s something both comforting and heartwarming about cooking up a sumptuous meal after a long day. One of my absolute favorite dishes to whip up is CREAMY BOURSIN GNOCCHI. This dish takes me back to my college days when I discovered the magic of gnocchi and the wonderful flavor of Boursin cheese. The moment you toss the gnocchi in that luscious, creamy sauce, it’s like a warm hug for your belly.

Picture this: a plate full of pillowy gnocchi draped in a silky sauce, with fragrant herbs and spices blending together, creating an irresistible aroma that fills the room. Honestly, it’s the perfect weeknight dinner, and it never fails to impress. Whether you’re trying to cozy up on a rainy evening or impress a friend, this dish is sure to become a go-to in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy: Perfect for weeknight dinners, this dish comes together in less than 30 minutes!
• Budget-Friendly: Using simple ingredients that you can easily find at any grocery store.
• Comforting and Creamy: The Boursin cheese brings a rich, delightful flavor you won’t be able to resist.
• Customizable: Many variations and additions keep this dish exciting every time you make it.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients for your CREAMY BOURSIN GNOCCHI. Trust me, this list is short and sweet, just like the cooking time!

• 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 8 oz Boursin cheese (your favorite flavor: garlic & herbs, shallot & chive, etc.)
• 2 cups spinach (fresh or frozen – if using frozen, make sure to thaw and drain it well!)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds more punch than powdered)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese for serving (optional, but highly recommended!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking your CREAMY BOURSIN GNOCCHI is a breeze! Follow these simple steps, and soon you’ll be twirling your fork in a dreamy pasta dish.

1. Boil the Gnocchi: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s boiling, add in the gnocchi. Cook according to package instructions or until they float to the top, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Be sure not to overcook them, or they’ll turn mushy!
2. Prep the Sauce: While the gnocchi is cooking, grab a large skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Keep an eye on it to avoid burning!
3. Add the Spinach & Tomatoes: Add the spinach and cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Stir gently and let them cook for about 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the tomatoes soften.
4. Mix in the Boursin: Reduce the heat to low, then add the Boursin cheese and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and creates a creamy sauce. If it gets too thick, don’t hesitate to add a splash of pasta water!
5. Toss in the Gnocchi: Once your gnocchi is ready, drain it and add it to the skillet, folding it gently into the sauce to ensure every piece is coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve and Enjoy: Serve your creamy gnocchi immediately! Sprinkle with fresh parmesan cheese if you like that extra cheesy goodness.

Pro Tips & Variations

Now that you have the basics down, let’s have some fun! Here are a few playful twists and variations to make this dish your own:

• Add Protein: Consider tossing in cooked chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage for a heartier meal. Just make sure to cook these separately and mix them into the dish at the end.
• Spice It Up: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a nice kick or fresh herbs like basil or parsley to brighten it up.
• Veggie Medley: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables! Zucchini, bell peppers, or even asparagus would work beautifully here.
• Cheese Variations: Don’t have Boursin on hand? You can use cream cheese and add herbs of your choice to get a similar flavor!

Serving Suggestions

Ah, serving is where the magic happens! This CREAMY BOURSIN GNOCCHI deserves a lovely presentation. Consider pairing it with a fresh arugula salad drizzled with olive oil and lemon juice to cut through the creaminess of the dish. A crusty piece of garlic bread or a light side of sautéed vegetables would round out the meal nicely.

And of course, don’t forget a glass of your favorite white wine to elevate the experience. Picture it: your friends gathered around the table, everyone digging into their creamy plates while laughter fills the air. It’s all about the cozy vibes!

Storage Tips

Once you’re done enjoying your delightful meal, you might wonder how to store any leftovers. Here’s the scoop:

• Refrigeration: Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It should keep well in the fridge for about 3 days.
• Freezing: If you want to save it for later, you can freeze the gnocchi before adding the sauce. Just make sure they are well-coated in a light layer of olive oil to prevent sticking. They can last in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth to bring back that creamy texture. You might need to add a touch more cheese if it seems too thick.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! Cream cheese with herbs, ricotta with some seasonings, or even a low-fat cream cheese can be wonderful alternatives. Just remember to adjust the seasoning since some cheeses can be saltier than others!

Is gnocchi gluten-free?

Traditional gnocchi usually contains wheat flour, but you can find gluten-free options at many grocery stores. Or, you can make your own using gluten-free flour!

Can I make this vegan?

Yes! You can substitute Boursin with a vegan cream cheese or a cashew cream. Just blend soaked cashews with nutritional yeast and garlic for a delicious alternative!

What can I serve with gnocchi?

There are endless options! A light salad, roasted vegetables, or even some garlic bread for scooping up that luscious sauce are all fantastic sides.

Can I make gnocchi from scratch?

You certainly can! Homemade gnocchi, made from potatoes and flour, can be a fun project. Just keep in mind it does take a bit more time than using store-bought gnocchi!

Conclusion

And there you have it, my dear friends! A cozy, heartwarming plate of CREAMY BOURSIN GNOCCHI that’s bound to become a favorite in your household. I genuinely hope you enjoy making and savoring this dish as much as I do. Don’t hesitate to share your own twists and stories in the comments—I’d love to hear how it goes for you! Happy cooking!