Creamy Olive Garden Gnocchi Recipe – So Delicious!

There’s something undeniably comforting about a warm bowl of Olive Garden’s Potato Gnocchi.

These soft, pillowy potato dumplings, coated in a creamy, flavorful sauce, have become a fan favorite at the restaurant.

But what if you could recreate that same indulgent experience in your own kitchen?

Making homemade potato gnocchi might seem intimidating, but it’s actually easier than you think!

With just a few simple ingredients and the right technique, you can achieve the perfect light and tender gnocchi—just like the ones from Olive Garden.

Plus, preparing it from scratch allows you to control the flavors, texture, and quality of ingredients, making the dish even more delicious.

In this recipe, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of making authentic Olive Garden-style potato gnocchi at home, complete with a creamy, restaurant-style sauce.

Get ready to impress your family and friends with this comforting Italian classic!

Ingredients for Olive Garden Potato Gnocchi

For the Gnocchi Dough

The foundation of any good gnocchi is the dough. Using the right ingredients in the correct proportions is key to achieving a soft and fluffy texture.

• 2 large russet potatoes – The high starch content helps create light and tender gnocchi.
• 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour – Provides structure while keeping the gnocchi delicate.
• 1 large egg – Helps bind the dough together.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances flavor.
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional) – Adds a slight richness and depth of flavor.

For the Creamy Garlic Parmesan Sauce

The creamy sauce is what brings this dish together, giving it that signature Olive Garden taste.

• 2 tablespoons butter – Adds richness and helps sauté the garlic.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the sauce with deep, aromatic flavor.
• 1 cup heavy cream – Creates a velvety, luxurious texture.
• 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth) – Balances the heaviness of the cream while adding depth.
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese – Melts into the sauce for a savory, cheesy finish.
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped – Adds color and a hint of freshness.
• ½ teaspoon salt – Adjust to taste.
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper – Enhances flavor.
• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of dried herbs to mimic classic Italian flavors.

Now that you have everything ready, let’s move on to the step-by-step instructions for making the perfect Olive Garden-style potato gnocchi from scratch!

Step-by-Step Instructions to Make Olive Garden Potato Gnocchi

Making Olive Garden-style potato gnocchi from scratch requires a few key steps, but with the right technique, you’ll get soft, pillowy dumplings that melt in your mouth.

Follow this detailed guide to achieve perfect results every time.

Step 1: Prepare the Potatoes

The type of potatoes you use and how you cook them significantly impact the texture of your gnocchi.

1. Choose the right potatoes – Use russet potatoes because they have a high starch content, which makes for light, fluffy gnocchi.
2. Bake or boil the potatoes –
   • Baking method (recommended): Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C), prick the potatoes with a fork, and bake for about 45-50 minutes until fork-tender.
   • Boiling method: If boiling, place the potatoes in a pot of cold water, bring to a boil, and cook until tender (about 20-25 minutes).
3. Peel and mash – While the potatoes are still warm, peel off the skin and mash them using a potato ricer or fork. Avoid over-mashing to prevent a gummy texture.

Step 2: Make the Gnocchi Dough

Now it’s time to bring the dough together.

1. Let the mashed potatoes cool slightly – They should be warm but not steaming hot.
2. Add the flour, salt, and Parmesan – Sprinkle 1 cup of flour over the mashed potatoes and add salt and grated Parmesan (if using).
3. Create a well in the center and add the egg – Lightly beat the egg and pour it into the well.
4. Gently mix the dough – Use your hands or a fork to incorporate the ingredients until a soft dough forms. If it’s too sticky, gradually add more flour, but don’t overdo it—too much flour makes dense gnocchi.

Step 3: Shape and Cut the Gnocchi

Shaping the gnocchi properly ensures they cook evenly and hold sauce well.

1. Lightly flour your work surface – This prevents sticking.
2. Divide the dough into 4 equal portions – Work with one section at a time to keep the dough manageable.
3. Roll each portion into a rope – Aim for about ½ inch thick.
4. Cut into small pieces – Use a knife or bench scraper to cut ¾-inch gnocchi pieces.
5. Shape with a fork (optional) – Lightly press each piece against the back of a fork to create ridges, which help the gnocchi hold sauce better.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

Cooking gnocchi properly is crucial for the perfect texture.

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Drop in the gnocchi in small batches.
3. Wait for them to float – Once the gnocchi rise to the surface (about 2-3 minutes), let them cook for another 30 seconds, then remove with a slotted spoon.
4. Drain well and set aside.

Step 5: Prepare the Creamy Sauce

This sauce is what gives the dish its signature Olive Garden flavor—rich, creamy, and full of garlic and Parmesan goodness.

1. Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Sauté the garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine.
4. Let the sauce simmer for 2-3 minutes to thicken.
5. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until fully melted.
6. Add the chopped spinach and season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
7. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes until the spinach wilts.

Step 6: Combine and Serve

1. Gently toss the cooked gnocchi in the sauce, coating them evenly.
2. Simmer for another 1-2 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
3. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil.

Tips for the Best Olive Garden-Style Gnocchi

Achieving light, fluffy gnocchi requires attention to detail.

Here are some expert tips to ensure the best results:

1. Use the Right Potatoes

• Russet potatoes work best due to their low moisture and high starch content. Avoid waxy potatoes like red or Yukon gold, which result in dense gnocchi.

2. Bake Instead of Boil for Less Moisture

• Baking potatoes prevents them from absorbing excess water, keeping the dough from becoming too sticky. If boiling, keep the skins on to minimize moisture absorption.

3. Don’t Overwork the Dough

• Mix the ingredients just until they come together. Over-kneading results in chewy, tough gnocchi.

4. Use Just Enough Flour

• Too much flour makes gnocchi dense, while too little makes them fall apart. Start with 1 cup and add more only if needed.

5. Cook Gnocchi in Small Batches

• Overcrowding the pot can lower the water temperature, causing gummy gnocchi. Boil in small batches and remove them as soon as they float.

6. Finish Cooking in the Sauce

• Tossing gnocchi in the sauce for a couple of minutes allows them to absorb flavors and prevents them from sticking together.

7. Store and Reheat Properly

• Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream to revive the texture.
• Freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook directly from frozen, adding a few extra minutes to the boiling time.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

A plate of Olive Garden-style potato gnocchi is rich, creamy, and satisfying on its own, but pairing it with complementary sides can elevate your meal into a full Italian restaurant-style dining experience.

Here are some of the best dishes to serve alongside gnocchi:

1. Classic Olive Garden-Inspired Sides

• Garlic Breadsticks – Soft, buttery, and full of garlic flavor, just like the ones from Olive Garden.
• House Salad with Italian Dressing – A crisp, refreshing salad with lettuce, tomatoes, black olives, red onions, croutons, and a tangy Italian dressing balances the richness of the gnocchi.

2. Light & Fresh Pairings

• Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted asparagus, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes to add a fresh, slightly smoky contrast to the creamy dish.
• Steamed Broccoli – A simple, nutrient-packed side that complements the flavors without overpowering the dish.

3. Protein Additions

• Grilled Chicken or Shrimp – A lean protein option that pairs beautifully with the creamy sauce.
• Italian Sausage – Adds a bold, slightly spicy flavor to contrast with the gnocchi’s softness.

4. Wine Pairings

• White Wine: A crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc enhances the creaminess without overwhelming the dish.
• Red Wine: A light Chianti or Pinot Noir pairs well without being too bold for the delicate gnocchi.

Now that you have the perfect meal planned, let’s wrap up with a few final thoughts.

Conclusion

Recreating the Olive Garden potato gnocchi at home is easier than you think, and the results are well worth the effort.

This homemade version gives you full control over ingredients, ensuring a dish that’s fresh, flavorful, and made with love.

By following these step-by-step instructions and expert tips, you’ll achieve the same soft, pillowy gnocchi that makes this dish a restaurant favorite.

Whether you’re cooking for a special occasion or just craving a cozy, comforting meal, this recipe is sure to impress.

Give it a try, and let us know how it turned out in the comments below! If you loved this recipe, check out our other Olive Garden-inspired dishes to complete your Italian feast.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make the gnocchi dough ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the gnocchi dough up to a day in advance and store it wrapped in plastic in the refrigerator. However, for the best texture, it’s recommended to shape and cook them fresh.

2. What if my gnocchi dough is too sticky?

If the dough feels too sticky, gradually add small amounts of flour until it becomes soft but manageable. Be careful not to add too much, or the gnocchi will turn out dense.

3. Can I freeze homemade gnocchi?

Absolutely! Arrange the uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet and freeze them. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer bag and store for up to 2 months. Cook them straight from frozen—no need to thaw!

4. How do I reheat leftover gnocchi?

Reheat gnocchi gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to prevent them from drying out. Avoid microwaving, as it can make them mushy.

5. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes! Substitute the all-purpose flour with a gluten-free flour blend or almond flour. Just be sure to adjust the texture as gluten-free flours absorb moisture differently.