A pan of golden, lightly crisped gnocchi tossed in a velvety lemon–Parmesan cream sauce is the kind of dish that feels luxurious yet comes together in minutes. Bright citrus, rich cream, and nutty Parmesan create a comforting, elegant combination perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute entertaining. This recipe uses simple ingredients but delivers unforgettable flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It comes together in under 15 minutes, making it ideal for quick meals.
The creamy, tangy, cheesy sauce perfectly coats each pillowy gnocchi.
It pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted chicken, or vegetable sides.
Uses everyday ingredients while tasting restaurant-quality.
A family-friendly dish that is easy to customize.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 pound store-bought gnocchi
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Directions
Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it becomes frothy.
Add the gnocchi and cook, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and lightly crisped. This browning deepens the flavor.
Pour in the heavy whipping cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for 2–3 minutes so the gnocchi absorb the richness.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the lemon juice and grated Parmesan. Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the gnocchi.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 servings.
Prep time: about 2 minutes
Cook time: about 10 minutes
Total time: about 12 minutes
Variations
Add sautéed spinach or kale for extra greens.
Stir in grilled chicken breast slices for additional protein.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for gentle heat.
Replace some of the cream with chicken broth for a lighter sauce.
Stir in fresh herbs like basil, parsley, or chives at the end for a bright finish.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for 3–4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a small splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce. Avoid high heat to prevent the sauce from separating.
FAQs
How do I prevent the cream from curdling?
Use medium heat and avoid boiling the sauce. A gentle simmer keeps the cream smooth.
Can I use shelf-stable gnocchi?
Yes, shelf-stable, refrigerated, or frozen gnocchi all work well.
Do I need to boil the gnocchi before pan-browning?
No, this recipe browns the gnocchi directly in butter for added texture and flavor.
Can I replace heavy cream with milk?
Milk will not thicken the same way. Half-and-half can work, but the sauce will be thinner.
What type of Parmesan works best?
Freshly grated Parmesan from a block provides the creamiest melt and best flavor.
Can I add vegetables to this dish?
Yes—peas, spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms complement the sauce wonderfully.
How do I make the sauce thicker?
Simmer a little longer or add a small extra spoonful of grated Parmesan.
Can this be made ahead?
It’s best served immediately, but you can prepare it shortly before serving and reheat gently.
What meats pair best with this dish?
Simple grilled beef, roasted meats, or lightly seasoned chicken pair well to balance the richness.
How do I keep the gnocchi from sticking to the pan?
Use enough butter, allow the pan to heat properly, and avoid flipping too soon while browning.
Conclusion
Gnocchi with Lemon & Parmesan Sauce is a simple yet elevated dish that proves how powerful a few quality ingredients can be. Ready in minutes, creamy without being heavy, and brightened with fresh lemon, it’s a comforting side dish—or even a main course—that fits seamlessly into both weeknight cooking and special occasions. Enjoy every silky, citrusy, cheese-coated bite.
Gnocchi with Lemon & Parmesan Sauce is a quick and luxurious dish featuring golden pan-seared gnocchi tossed in a creamy, tangy lemon-Parmesan sauce. It’s comforting, elegant, and ready in under 15 minutes.
Ingredients
1 pound store-bought gnocchi
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup heavy whipping cream
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
Heat the butter in a large skillet over medium heat until it becomes frothy.
Add the gnocchi and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown and lightly crisped.
Pour in the heavy whipping cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Cook for 2–3 minutes.
Reduce heat to low and stir in lemon juice and grated Parmesan.
Continue stirring until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the gnocchi.
Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
No need to boil gnocchi beforehand—pan-browning adds great texture.
Use freshly grated Parmesan for the smoothest sauce.
