If you’re looking for a cozy, indulgent meal that’s ridiculously easy to make, Caramelized Courgettes in Creamy Gnocchi is your answer. Think golden, buttery courgettes with a hint of caramelization, tossed with pillowy soft gnocchi in a luscious, velvety sauce. It’s simple, satisfying, and feels like a restaurant-quality dish made in the comfort of your own kitchen.
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Trust me, after one bite, you’ll wonder why you haven’t been making this every week!
Why You’ll Love Caramelized Courgettes in Creamy Gnocchi
- Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes!
- Rich & Comforting – A creamy, indulgent dish that satisfies.
- Caramelized Goodness – The courgettes add a deep, slightly sweet flavor.
- Minimal Ingredients – Simple ingredients, big flavors.
- Versatile – Enjoy as a main dish or pair it with a protein.
Ingredients in Caramelized Courgettes in Creamy Gnocchi
Here’s what makes this dish so special:
Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy bites of comfort. Use store-bought or homemade.
Courgettes (Zucchini): Sautéed until golden and caramelized, adding a natural sweetness.
Butter & Olive Oil: For rich flavor and perfect caramelization.
Garlic: A must for adding depth and warmth.
Heavy Cream: Creates that silky, creamy sauce. (Use coconut milk for a dairy-free version.)
Parmesan Cheese: Adds a salty, umami kick. Nutritional yeast works as a vegan swap.
Fresh Thyme: A hint of earthiness to balance the richness.
Lemon Zest: A pop of brightness to keep things fresh.
Salt & Black Pepper: To enhance all the flavors.
(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Instructions
Caramelize the Courgettes: Heat butter and olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add sliced courgettes and let them cook undisturbed for a few minutes to develop a golden crust. Flip and cook until deeply caramelized. Remove from the pan and set aside.
Cook the Gnocchi: If using fresh gnocchi, cook it directly in the sauce. If using packaged gnocchi, boil according to package instructions, then drain.
Make the Creamy Sauce: In the same pan, add a bit more butter and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant, then pour in the heavy cream. Let it simmer gently, thickening slightly.
Combine Everything: Return the caramelized courgettes to the pan, along with the cooked gnocchi. Stir in Parmesan cheese, fresh thyme, and lemon zest. Toss everything together until well coated in the creamy sauce.
Serve & Enjoy: Plate up, garnish with extra Parmesan and black pepper, and enjoy warm!
How to Serve Caramelized Courgettes in Creamy Gnocchi
- As a Main Dish: It’s rich and satisfying on its own.
- With a Side Salad: A fresh green salad balances the creaminess.
- With Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last drop of sauce.
- Topped with Nuts: Toasted pine nuts or walnuts add great texture.
- With a Protein: Serve alongside grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy tofu.
Additional Tips
- Let the Courgettes Brown: Don’t stir too often; let them caramelize properly.
- Use Fresh Gnocchi for Best Texture: It cooks faster and absorbs the sauce beautifully.
- Make It Lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a plant-based alternative.
- Add More Flavor: A pinch of chili flakes or a drizzle of balsamic glaze can elevate the dish.
- Storage Tips: Keep leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently with a splash of cream.
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different pasta instead of gnocchi?
A1: Absolutely! Short pasta like rigatoni or penne works well.
Q2: Can I make this dish vegan?
A2: Yes! Use plant-based butter, coconut cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
Q3: How do I store and reheat leftovers?
A3: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a pan with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.
Q4: Can I add protein to this dish?
A4: Definitely! Try grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy chickpeas for a boost.
Q5: What if my sauce is too thick?
A5: Add a splash of milk, broth, or pasta water to loosen it up.
Q6: How do I get perfect caramelized courgettes?
A6: Cook them undisturbed for a few minutes before flipping—this helps them brown beautifully.
Q7: Can I freeze this dish?
A7: Gnocchi can get a bit soft after freezing, but you can freeze it for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight and reheat gently.
Q8: What’s the best way to get creamy sauce without heavy cream?
A8: Try blending soaked cashews with a little water for a dairy-free creamy sauce.
Q9: Can I use frozen gnocchi?
A9: Yes! Just cook it according to package instructions before adding to the sauce.
Q10: What other vegetables can I add?
A10: Spinach, peas, or cherry tomatoes all make great additions.
Final Thoughts
This Caramelized Courgettes in Creamy Gnocchi is the perfect balance of rich, creamy, and slightly sweet flavors. Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s a dish that delivers every single time. So grab a fork and enjoy every creamy, caramelized bite!
Print
Caramelized Courgettes in Creamy Gnocchi
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 2 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This creamy gnocchi recipe is the perfect way to use up seasonal courgettes in a simple, budget-friendly, and vegan-friendly dish. With caramelised courgettes, aromatic herbs, and a rich vegan cream sauce, this meal is packed with flavor and ready in just 20 minutes.
Ingredients
- 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
- 1–2 courgettes, chopped (use two small or one large courgette)
- 2 large cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 500g gnocchi
- 250ml vegan single cream (Oatly, Alpro, or Elmlea work well)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried parsley
- 1 tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp salt and pepper, or to taste
Instructions
- Sauté the vegetables: Heat olive oil in a griddle pan over medium heat. Add the chopped courgettes and garlic, then fry for 5-6 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the garlic starts to brown too quickly, add a splash of water.
- Caramelise the courgettes: Let them develop a golden brown color on each side, creating a rich, caramelised texture.
- Cook the gnocchi: Add the gnocchi, vegan cream, and dried herbs & seasoning to the pan. Let it simmer for a few minutes until the gnocchi is tender and coated in the creamy sauce.
- Taste & serve: Adjust seasoning if needed, then serve hot.
Notes
- Extra veggies? Add spinach, mushrooms, or sun-dried tomatoes for more flavor.
- Protein boost: Toss in tofu, tempeh, or roasted chickpeas.
- Cheesy twist: Sprinkle with nutritional yeast or vegan parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate
- Calories: 510
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 16g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 13g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 82g
- Fiber: 6g
- Protein: 10g
- Cholesterol: 0mg