Spinach and Feta Gnocchi Skillet

Created on January 4th, 2026 at 12:30 pm

A Cozy One Pan Dinner That Feels Comforting and Effortless

Spinach and feta gnocchi skillet is the kind of meal that feels comforting the moment it starts cooking. As the gnocchi sizzle lightly in the pan, the kitchen fills with a warm, familiar aroma that signals dinner is about to be both easy and satisfying. There is something deeply reassuring about a one pan meal that comes together calmly, without rushing or complicated steps. This dish leans into that feeling, offering comfort without heaviness and flavor without effort.

What makes this skillet especially appealing is its balance. The gnocchi are soft and pillowy, creating a base that feels indulgent, while the spinach adds freshness and color that keeps the dish from feeling too rich. The feta brings just enough saltiness and tang to brighten everything, cutting through the creaminess in a way that feels intentional rather than overpowering. It is a dinner that feels cozy but still light enough to enjoy any night of the week.

This recipe is also incredibly practical. It comes together quickly, uses simple ingredients, and requires minimal cleanup. Whether you are cooking for yourself, sharing dinner with family, or looking for something reliable after a long day, this spinach and feta gnocchi skillet fits naturally into real life. It is comforting food that respects your time and energy.

Quick Facts

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Kitchen Utensils

One of the best parts of this recipe is how simple the setup is. You do not need a long list of tools to make it work.

• Large nonstick or stainless steel skillet
• Wooden or silicone spatula
• Measuring cups
• Measuring spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife

Why Spinach and Feta Pair So Well with Gnocchi

Spinach and feta are a classic combination for a reason. Spinach has a mild, earthy flavor that blends easily into creamy dishes, while feta adds sharpness and contrast. When paired with gnocchi, these ingredients create a dish that feels layered and satisfying without needing heavy sauces or complex seasoning.

Gnocchi themselves act as a blank canvas. Their soft texture absorbs flavor easily, making them perfect for skillet meals. In this recipe, they soak up the creamy base while still maintaining their structure, creating a bite that feels rich but not dense. The result is a dish that feels balanced and comforting, ideal for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi Skillet

• Shelf stable potato gnocchi
• Olive oil
• Garlic, minced
• Heavy cream or half and half
• Fresh spinach
• Crumbled feta cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Red pepper flakes, optional

Instructions

This recipe is designed to flow easily, with each step building naturally into the next.

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the gnocchi and cook until lightly golden on the outside, stirring occasionally.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
4. Pour in the cream and stir gently to coat the gnocchi.
5. Add the spinach in batches, allowing it to wilt into the sauce.
6. Stir in the feta cheese and season with salt and black pepper.
7. Let everything simmer gently until the sauce thickens slightly.
8. Finish with red pepper flakes if using and serve warm.

Tips and Substitutions

• Use half and half for a lighter sauce if preferred.
• Frozen spinach can be used, but thaw and drain it well first.
• Add cherry tomatoes for extra freshness and color.
• A squeeze of lemon at the end brightens the dish nicely.

Storage and Make Ahead

Spinach and feta gnocchi skillet is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers store well for short periods. Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

When reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the gnocchi. This dish works best for make ahead dinners when you plan to enjoy it within a couple of days.

How This Skillet Fits into Weeknight Cooking

This recipe is especially helpful on nights when energy is low but you still want a home cooked meal. Everything happens in one pan, which keeps cleanup minimal and stress low. The cooking process is forgiving, making it a good option even when you are multitasking or helping with other evening routines.

It is also easy to scale. You can double the recipe for a larger group or keep it smaller for a quiet dinner at home. This flexibility makes it a strong addition to any weeknight rotation.

FAQ

Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes. This spinach and feta gnocchi skillet is fully vegetarian as written.

Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely. Grilled chicken, shrimp, or white beans all work well.

Does feta melt into the sauce?
Feta softens and blends slightly, but it keeps some texture, which adds contrast.

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of shelf stable?
Yes. Fresh gnocchi will cook faster, so adjust timing slightly.

Is this dish very rich?
It is creamy but balanced by spinach and feta, making it feel comforting rather than heavy.

Can I make this gluten free?
Use gluten free gnocchi to make the dish suitable for gluten free diets.

A One Pan Dinner That Feels Cozy and Reliable

Spinach and feta gnocchi skillet is the kind of recipe that earns a regular spot in your dinner rotation. It is simple, comforting, and flexible, offering familiar flavors in a format that fits modern weeknight cooking. Whether you are cooking for yourself or sharing with others, this is a meal that feels warm, satisfying, and easy to return to again and again.