If you are craving a dish that is both comforting and bursting with flavor, look no further than this delightful One Pan Gnocchi alla Vodka Recipe. It combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a rich, creamy vodka sauce, all cooked right in one pan for maximum ease and minimal cleanup. The subtle tang of vodka mingles perfectly with the sweetness of tomatoes and the warmth of Italian seasoning, creating a luscious sauce that clings to every gnocchi bite. Whether you are cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this recipe promises a simple yet impressive meal your whole family will adore.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To create this delicious One Pan Gnocchi alla Vodka Recipe, you’ll find that the ingredients are straightforward but essential. Each element plays a key role in building layers of flavor, richness, and texture that make this dish truly special.
- Olive oil: Provides a flavorful base for sautéing the onion and garlic, infusing the dish with a warm, fruity aroma.
- Onion: Adds subtle sweetness and depth when finely chopped and gently caramelized.
- Garlic: Brings a fragrant punch that elevates the sauce’s overall profile in just 30 seconds of cooking.
- Diced tomatoes (with juices): They create a bright, fresh foundation for the vodka sauce’s beautiful red hue and balanced acidity.
- Vodka: Cuts through the richness with a bit of bite, enhancing the other flavors without overpowering them.
- Italian seasoning: Infuses herbs like oregano and basil, delivering a classic Italian vibe that ties the dish together.
- Half-and-half: Adds creaminess to make the sauce silky and indulgent without being too heavy.
- Potato gnocchi: The star ingredient that soaks up all the luscious sauce with its soft, pillowy texture.
- Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a nutty, salty finish that makes every bite irresistible.
- Fresh basil: Adds a bright, herbal freshness that complements the richness perfectly when sliced thinly at the end.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance every flavor note.
How to Make One Pan Gnocchi alla Vodka Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Onion
Start by heating the olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté it for about 5 to 7 minutes. Don’t worry if the onion browns lightly—it’ll add a lovely depth of flavor to your sauce. This step builds the savory foundation you’ll love in every bite.
Step 2: Add the Garlic
Next, toss in the minced garlic. Cook it for approximately 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This quick burst of garlic aroma will awaken your senses and prepare the dish for the rich tomato and vodka to come.
Step 3: Simmer Tomatoes and Vodka
Pour in the diced tomatoes with juices and the vodka. Allow this mixture to simmer for about a minute. The vodka introduces a subtle sharpness that balances beautifully with the natural sweetness of the tomatoes, creating a vibrant base for your sauce.
Step 4: Combine Seasoning, Cream, and Gnocchi
Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir in the half-and-half. Then add the uncooked potato gnocchi to the pan. Give everything a good stir before reducing the heat to medium. Cover the skillet and let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to puff up while soaking in all those rich flavors.
Step 5: Finish with Cheese and Basil
Finally, stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and thinly sliced basil. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste—feel free to be generous with the salt to bring out the full flavor. Cook for a couple more minutes to make sure your gnocchi is tender and perfectly cooked through. This last step is where the sauce becomes irresistibly creamy and luscious.
How to Serve One Pan Gnocchi alla Vodka Recipe
Garnishes
For an extra touch of elegance and flavor, sprinkle a little more parmesan cheese and freshly torn basil leaves over your dish just before serving. A light drizzle of good-quality olive oil can add a silky finish and enhance the overall presentation beautifully.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairing it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables brings balance and freshness to the meal. Garlic bread or warm focaccia makes for perfect dippers, letting you scoop up every last drop of that dreamy vodka sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the One Pan Gnocchi alla Vodka Recipe in shallow bowls for a cozy, rustic feel. Alternatively, plate it in a large, family-style dish to encourage sharing and connection around the table. Garnishing with microgreens or edible flowers can turn this simple meal into a stunning centerpiece that wows your guests effortlessly.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Keep any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The sauce will thicken as it cools, so when you reheat, you might want to add a splash of milk or water to restore its creamy texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes reasonably well. Place cooled leftovers in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 1 month. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best results to preserve the dish’s delicate creaminess and texture.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently and adding a little cream or milk as needed to loosen the sauce. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, to ensure even warming without drying out the gnocchi.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! While potato gnocchi is traditional and best for soaking up the sauce, you can experiment with sweet potato or gluten-free gnocchi varieties if you prefer. Just keep in mind cooking times may vary slightly.
Is the vodka flavor very strong in this dish?
The vodka is subtle and enhances the sauce without leaving a strong alcohol taste. Most of the vodka cooks off during simmering, leaving behind a smooth, balanced flavor that perfectly complements the cream and tomatoes.
Can I make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the half-and-half with coconut milk or a plant-based cream, and use a vegan parmesan alternative. The sauce will still be creamy and delicious, though the flavor profile will have a slight twist.
How do I know when the gnocchi is fully cooked?
The gnocchi will puff up and become tender after about 5 minutes of cooking covered in the sauce. It should be soft but not mushy. Tasting a piece before the final step is the best way to ensure perfect texture.
Can I double this recipe for a larger crowd?
Yes, this One Pan Gnocchi alla Vodka Recipe scales well. Just use a larger skillet or pan to accommodate the additional ingredients and cook times may need to be adjusted slightly to ensure even cooking.
Final Thoughts
I truly hope you enjoy making and indulging in this One Pan Gnocchi alla Vodka Recipe as much as I do. It’s a celebration of comfort food with a touch of elegance that’s incredibly easy to whip up any night of the week. Once you try it, I bet this will become your go-to for craving creamy, savory, and utterly satisfying meals with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
Print
One Pan Gnocchi alla Vodka Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 20 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This One Pan Gnocchi alla Vodka is a creamy, flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines tender potato gnocchi with a rich vodka tomato sauce, infused with garlic, onions, and a touch of Italian seasoning. Ready in just 20 minutes, it’s a perfect weeknight meal that comes together quickly in a single skillet.
Ingredients
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 small onion, chopped finely
- 3–4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 fluid ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1/4 cup vodka
- 2 dashes Italian seasoning
- 1 cup half-and-half
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Handful fresh basil, sliced thinly
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Sauté onion: Heat olive oil in a deep skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for 5-7 minutes until it’s translucent and lightly browned.
- Add garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Simmer tomatoes and vodka: Pour in the diced tomatoes with juices and the vodka. Allow the mixture to simmer for about one minute to meld the flavors.
- Add seasoning, dairy, and gnocchi: Stir in Italian seasoning, half-and-half, and the uncooked gnocchi. Mix well, reduce heat to medium, cover the pan, and cook for 5 minutes to allow the gnocchi to cook through.
- Finish with cheese and basil: Remove the lid, stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese and sliced basil. Season generously with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for an additional 2 minutes to ensure the gnocchi is fully cooked and sauce is creamy. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Use a deep skillet or sauté pan to have enough room to cook the gnocchi evenly.
- You can substitute heavy cream for half-and-half for a richer sauce.
- Be cautious with salt; parmesan cheese adds savory saltiness.
- For a vegetarian version, ensure the vodka is alcohol-free or omit it.
- Fresh basil can be substituted with dried Italian herbs if fresh isn’t available.
- Serve with extra parmesan on top for added flavor.
