Smoked Salmon Gnocchi | Amazing Creamy Comfort

Some evenings just call for a meal that feels like a hug in a bowl. This smoked salmon gnocchi does exactly that. Soft, pillowy gnocchi sinks into a velvety cream cheese sauce, kissed with smoky salmon and fresh spinach. It’s the kind of dish you can pull together fast, yet it tastes like something special perfect for a cozy lunch or an easy weeknight dinner for two.

Why This Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Works

This recipe balances comfort and freshness in every bite. The smoked salmon adds deep, rich flavor without extra work. Cream cheese gives the sauce its silky body, while spinach keeps it bright and lively. It all comes together in under 40 minutes with only one main pan, so cleanup stays simple. Plus, you can swap ingredients easily, which makes it great for home cooks with busy schedules or limited fridge space.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Key Fresh Ingredients

Shallot and garlic create the aromatic base, giving the sauce depth. Fresh spinach wilts beautifully and softens the richness of the cream. Chopped parsley adds a fresh finish. The star, hot smoked salmon, brings a gentle smokiness that perfectly complements the creamy sauce and tender gnocchi.

Pantry Staples and Seasonings

A splash of dry white wine like Pinot Grigio adds acidity and aroma. Olive oil starts the base and carries the flavors. Tomato puree and Italian herbs layer in gentle warmth and savory notes, while a touch of crushed red pepper provides subtle heat. Water stretches the sauce and keeps it light enough to coat each dumpling evenly.

Dairy and Gnocchi Essentials

Full-fat cream cheese is key here it melts smoothly, creating a glossy sauce without breaking. Gnocchi, whether fresh or shelf-stable, delivers that soft, chewy bite. Both versions work; fresh cooks a bit quicker and gives a lighter texture.

How to Make Smoked Salmon Gnocchi Step by Step

Build the Flavor Base

Start by heating olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped shallot and cook it for about two minutes until soft and translucent. Then stir in the minced garlic and crushed red pepper. Let them bloom for another minute until fragrant. Pour in the white wine and let it simmer for a minute or two to cook off the alcohol it should smell mellow and slightly sweet at this point.

Create the Creamy Sauce

Next, stir in the tomato puree and Italian herbs, followed by a cup of water. Allow it to simmer gently so the flavors meld. Add the spinach and cook just until wilted and bright green. Lower the heat and spoon in the cream cheese, stirring slowly until it melts into a smooth, glossy sauce. This step gives the dish its signature velvety texture.

Cook the Gnocchi and Combine

Meanwhile, boil the gnocchi in a separate pot until they float to the top, which usually takes 2–3 minutes. Drain them, saving about half a cup of the cooking water. Gently fold the gnocchi into the sauce. If the mixture feels too thick, stir in a splash of that reserved water until it coats beautifully. Finally, flake the smoked salmon into the pan and fold it in carefully just enough to warm through without breaking it apart. Sprinkle parsley on top and serve immediately.

This creamy smoked salmon gnocchi clocks in around 600–700 calories per serving, with roughly 12–15 g protein, 50–60 g fat, and 15–20 g carbohydrates.

Tips for Best Results

Avoid overcooking the gnocchi; take them out as soon as they float. Always add the salmon at the end so it stays tender, not dry. Melt the cream cheese over low heat to keep it smooth and lump-free. You can loosen the sauce with a little gnocchi water if it thickens too much. Taste before serving sometimes a squeeze of lemon or an extra pinch of salt balances everything beautifully.

Easy Ingredient Substitutions

You can easily switch things up here. Use a small onion if you don’t have a shallot. If you prefer not to use wine, mix broth with a splash of lemon juice. Mascarpone or goat cheese both work instead of cream cheese, each adding its own flavor. Swap spinach with arugula, baby kale, or even thawed frozen spinach. For herbs, your favorite dried Italian blend or a mix of oregano and thyme will do perfectly.

What to Serve with Smoked Salmon Gnocchi

This rich dish pairs best with something light and crisp. A lemony arugula salad cuts through the creaminess, while steamed green beans or roasted asparagus add freshness and crunch. For a slightly indulgent side, simple bruschetta or garlic bread rounds out the meal. If you love pasta-based meals, try this creamy tomato beef pasta or the one skillet salmon with lemon orzo for another quick dinner idea.

Storage and Make-Ahead Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat slowly over low heat on the stovetop, stirring in a splash of milk or cream to restore the sauce’s smoothness. If you plan ahead, make the sauce a day early and keep it chilled. Cook the gnocchi and add the salmon and greens just before serving for the best texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

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Conclusion

This smoked salmon gnocchi brings together creamy comfort and elegant flavor in one skillet. It’s rich but balanced, fast yet satisfying, and simple enough for any lunch or cozy dinner. Try it once, and it just might become your new go-to meal when you crave something warm, smoky, and wonderfully comforting. For more recipe ideas or to share your version, visit me on Pinterest or Facebook.

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