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12-Minute Garlic Butter Gnocchi with Spinach and Peas

One-pan garlic butter gnocchi with peas, spinach, and Parmesan—crispy-tender comfort food ready in about 12 minutes.
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Prep Time 3 minutes
Cook Time 9 minutes
Total Time 12 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Quick & Easy Meals
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Main
  • 1 lb potato gnocchi shelf-stable or refrigerated
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 2 cups baby spinach packed
  • 1/3 cup Parmesan cheese finely grated
  • 3 tbsp water or broth helps coat the sauce
  • 1/2 tsp salt to taste
  • 1/4 tsp black pepper to taste
  • 1 tsp lemon juice optional finish

Equipment

  • Large nonstick skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Microplane or grater

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add gnocchi and cook 4–5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until golden in spots.
  3. Add butter and garlic; stir 30–45 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in peas and water/broth; cook 2 minutes until hot and saucy.
  5. Add spinach and toss until just wilted.
  6. Turn off heat, add Parmesan, salt, pepper, and optional lemon juice. Toss and serve.

Notes

Extra crispy gnocchi: Let it sit undisturbed for 1 minute before stirring.
Add protein: Toss in cooked chicken or crispy bacon bits.
Make it creamy: Add a splash of cream at the end.
Leftovers: Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water to loosen.