Creamy Dairy-Free Spinach Gnocchi Recipe

If you’re craving a comforting dish that’s both indulgently creamy and wonderfully fresh, this Creamy Dairy-Free Spinach Gnocchi Recipe is an absolute must-try. It’s packed with tender gnocchi perfectly browned to a golden crisp, then swirled into a luscious, dairy-free spinach sauce that’s rich with flavor yet light on the palate. Whether you follow a plant-based lifestyle or simply want to enjoy a dairy-free meal bursting with color and texture, this recipe balances velvety creaminess with vibrant greens for a satisfying dinner that feels special every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in this Creamy Dairy-Free Spinach Gnocchi Recipe is carefully chosen to create a harmony of flavor, texture, and nutrition. From the simple olive oil that crisps the gnocchi just right, to the vegan butter and flour that form the base of the creamy sauce, every component plays an essential role in building this delicious dish.

• Olive oil (2 tablespoons, divided): For browning the gnocchi and sautéing the aromatics, giving a subtle fruity note.
• Shelf-stable packaged gnocchi (16 ounces): Easy to cook and provides those pillowy potato pillows we all adore.
• Small onion (diced): Adds sweetness and depth when softened in the pan.
• Garlic cloves (3, minced): Infuses the sauce with savory warmth and an irresistible aroma.
• Italian seasoning (1 teaspoon): A fragrant blend that brings classic herbaceous flavors.
• Salt (1/2 teaspoon or to taste): Enhances all the other flavors beautifully without overpowering them.
• Black pepper (1/4 teaspoon or to taste): Adds mild heat and earthiness to the sauce.
• Red pepper flakes (1/4 teaspoon): For just a hint of spiciness to keep things exciting on the palate.
• Ground nutmeg (1/8 teaspoon, optional): The perfect little touch that rounds out the creamy spinach with a subtle warmth.
• Vegan butter (2 tablespoons): Creates a rich and silky base for the sauce without dairy.
• All-purpose flour (2 tablespoons): Helps thicken the sauce to a beautiful, clingy consistency.
• Unsweetened, plain non-dairy milk (1 1/2 cups): Whether almond, oat, cashew, or light coconut, it keeps the sauce smooth and luscious while remaining dairy-free.
• Frozen spinach (8 ounces): Adds vibrant color and a nutritious boost, perfectly melding into the creamy sauce.
• Nutritional yeast (3 tablespoons): Gives a savory, cheesy flavor to the dish, making it rich and satisfying.
• Juice of 1/2 lemon: Brightens and balances the flavors with a fresh, zesty pop.

How to Make Creamy Dairy-Free Spinach Gnocchi Recipe

Step 1: Crisp the Gnocchi

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and carefully add the gnocchi in one even layer. Stir occasionally every couple of minutes, allowing the gnocchi to develop a gorgeous golden-brown crust all around. This step transforms their texture from soft to delightfully crispy in just 12 to 15 minutes. Once perfectly browned, transfer the gnocchi to a bowl and set aside to keep warm.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Using the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil and toss in the diced onion. Let it cook gently until soft and translucent, about 4 minutes. This slow sauté unlocks the sweetness and depth essential for building layers of flavor in the sauce.

Step 3: Build the Flavor Base

Now it’s time to add the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and optional nutmeg to the onion. Stir everything together and cook briefly until the mixture is fragrant and your kitchen is filled with the wonderful aroma of herbs and spices. This step ensures every forkful will be bursting with taste.

Step 4: Create the Roux

Drop in the vegan butter and stir until melted and incorporated. Then sprinkle the flour over the aromatic mixture, stirring constantly to avoid any lumps. Cooking out the flour for about a minute gives the sauce a silky smooth texture and a subtle nuttiness that’s simply irresistible.

Step 5: Whisk in Non-Dairy Milk

Gradually pour in the non-dairy milk while whisking continuously. This prevents clumps and allows the sauce to thicken beautifully. Choose your favorite plant-based milk—almond, oat, cashew, or a light coconut variety—to add creaminess without overwhelming the spinach’s fresh taste.

Step 6: Add Spinach and Nutritional Yeast

Mix in the frozen spinach and nutritional yeast, stirring to evenly distribute the vibrant greens and umami-rich yeast. Bring the sauce to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium-low and let simmer for about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally, breaking up clumps of spinach with a wooden spoon to create a silky, thick sauce that lovingly coats every gnocchi piece.

Step 7: Combine and Finish

Return the browned gnocchi to the skillet and fold it into the luscious spinach sauce. Squeeze in the juice of half a lemon for a bright sparkle of freshness, then taste and adjust salt or seasoning if needed. This last step harmonizes all the flavors perfectly, ensuring every bite is creamy, vibrant, and utterly comforting.

Step 8: Serve Immediately

Your Creamy Dairy-Free Spinach Gnocchi Recipe is best enjoyed straight away while the sauce is warm and clings lovingly to each tender gnocchi. Prepare your plates, grab a cozy seat, and get ready to dig in!

How to Serve Creamy Dairy-Free Spinach Gnocchi Recipe

Garnishes

Adding just the right garnish can elevate this dish to new heights. Consider a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper or a dusting of extra nutritional yeast for an extra cheesy flavor. Chopped fresh basil or parsley offer a burst of herbal brightness that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce. A light drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving adds that silky finish and subtle richness.

Side Dishes

This Creamy Dairy-Free Spinach Gnocchi Recipe pairs wonderfully with crisp, refreshing side dishes. A simple green salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette balances the richness perfectly, while roasted cherry tomatoes or garlic sautéed mushrooms add additional depth and texture. Crisp breadsticks or crusty vegan bread are excellent choices to mop up every last bit of that decadent sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the gnocchi inside hollowed-out mini pumpkins or colorful bell peppers to impress guests. Alternatively, plating the gnocchi in a shallow bowl with a flourish of microgreens and edible flowers creates an elegant visual experience. You can also layer it in a baking dish topped with vegan cheese and bake for a bubbly gratin that’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you have any leftovers of this Creamy Dairy-Free Spinach Gnocchi Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 3 days, allowing you to enjoy the delicious flavors again without sacrificing texture or taste.

Freezing

To freeze, allow the dish to cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers. The creamy sauce and gnocchi freeze surprisingly well and can last up to 2 months. For the best results, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and to bring back that silky smooth sauce consistency. Adding a splash of non-dairy milk or water can help loosen the sauce if it thickens too much during storage.

FAQs

Can I use fresh spinach instead of frozen?

Absolutely! Fresh spinach works beautifully. Just sauté it first until wilted, then add it to the sauce in place of the frozen spinach. It may require a slightly shorter simmering time since fresh greens cook faster.

What type of non-dairy milk is best for this recipe?

Unsweetened, plain non-dairy milks like almond, oat, cashew, or light coconut milk are all excellent choices. Pick one with a mild flavor to let the spinach and seasoning shine through. Avoid sweetened or flavored varieties.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

The recipe as written uses all-purpose flour and packaged gnocchi, which typically contain gluten. To make it gluten-free, substitute with gluten-free flour and gluten-free gnocchi varieties available at many stores.

How can I make this dish spicier?

If you love heat, feel free to increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a few dashes of hot sauce during the sauce-making step. Just adjust gradually to suit your taste buds!

What can I serve instead of gnocchi?

If gnocchi isn’t your favorite, you could swap in cooked pasta, cauliflower florets, or even roasted potatoes. Each will pair nicely with the creamy spinach sauce, though the texture will differ slightly.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Dairy-Free Spinach Gnocchi Recipe is a joyful celebration of comforting flavors and wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for cozy dinners that feel indulgent without dairy, and it’s flexible enough to fit your pantry staples and taste preferences. I encourage you to whip up this dish soon—you might find it quickly becoming a go-to whenever you crave something both creamy and nourishing in one beautiful bite.

Creamy Dairy-Free Spinach Gnocchi Recipe

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This Creamy Spinach Gnocchi recipe offers a delicious dairy-free twist on a classic comfort dish. Featuring golden pan-fried gnocchi tossed in a rich vegan sauce made from non-dairy milk, nutritional yeast, and a blend of herbs and spices, it is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal that is both creamy and wholesome.

• Author: Paula
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegan

Ingredients

Gnocchi

• 2 tablespoons olive oil (divided)
• 16 ounces shelf-stable packaged gnocchi

Sauce

• 1 small onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/8 teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• 2 tablespoons vegan butter
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 1/2 cups unsweetened, plain non-dairy milk (almond, oat, cashew, or light coconut milk)
• 8 ounces frozen spinach
• 3 tablespoons nutritional yeast
• Juice of 1/2 lemon (or to taste)

Instructions

1. Cook Gnocchi: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Add the gnocchi, spreading it out evenly in the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally every 2 minutes, until the gnocchi is golden brown on all sides, about 12 to 15 minutes. Transfer to a bowl or plate and set aside.
2. Sauté Onion: Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet. Sauté the diced onion over medium heat until soft and translucent, approximately 4 minutes.
3. Add Aromatics and Seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, and optional ground nutmeg. Cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. Create Roux: Add the vegan butter to the skillet and stir until melted. Sprinkle the flour evenly over the onion mixture and stir continuously until no white flour is visible, about 1 minute.
5. Add Non-Dairy Milk: Slowly pour in the unsweetened non-dairy milk while whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming in the sauce.
6. Add Spinach and Nutritional Yeast: Mix in the frozen spinach and nutritional yeast. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to medium-low and simmer for about 10 minutes until the sauce thickens. Use a wooden spoon to break up any spinach clumps as it cooks.
7. Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Return the browned gnocchi to the skillet and add the lemon juice. Stir thoroughly to coat all the gnocchi with the creamy spinach sauce. Taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt, pepper, or lemon juice as needed.
8. Serve: Serve the creamy spinach gnocchi immediately while hot for the best flavor and texture.

Notes

• For a nuttier flavor, try using oat or cashew milk in the sauce.
• Adjust red pepper flakes based on your spice preference.
• To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free flour and gluten-free gnocchi.
• Fresh spinach can be used instead of frozen; just wilt it in the sauce before adding gnocchi.
• Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and gently reheated on the stove or microwave.