Creamy Pesto Gnocchi

This creamy pesto gnocchi recipe is a quick and satisfying dish that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or a delightful side dish. With minimal ingredients and a one-pan cooking method, you’ll have this creamy, flavorful dish ready in just 20 minutes!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy pesto gnocchi is a blend of rich and savory flavors, combining the smoothness of heavy cream with the herby freshness of pesto. The gnocchi cooks right in the creamy sauce, absorbing all of those wonderful flavors, making each bite incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder—easy to prepare and easy to clean up! Whether you serve it as a comforting main or a side dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1/4 cup pesto

• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream

• 1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi

• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese

• Salt & pepper to taste

Directions

1. In a deep skillet, combine pesto, heavy cream, white wine (or chicken broth), and minced garlic. Place the skillet over medium heat.

2. Once the sauce begins to gently bubble, stir in the gnocchi. Cover the pan and cook for about 5 minutes.

3. After 5 minutes, uncover the pan and stir. Continue cooking for another couple of minutes, stirring often. As the gnocchi cooks, it will release starch, which will help thicken the sauce.

4. Once the sauce reaches your desired thickness, stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese. If the sauce becomes too thick, add a little more wine or cream to loosen it up. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

5. Serve immediately and enjoy the creamy, savory goodness!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6 (as a side dish)

• Prep time: 5 minutes

• Cook time: 15 minutes

• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add vegetables: You can toss in some sautéed spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, or roasted vegetables like zucchini or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or bacon bits to make this a heartier meal.bacon bits to make this a heartier meal

• Dairy-free option: Swap the heavy cream for a plant-based alternative like coconut cream, and use a dairy-free pesto and cheese alternative.

• Vegan version: Use vegan pesto, plant-based cream, and nutritional yeast in place of parmesan for a fully vegan version.

Storage/Reheating

• Storing: Store leftover creamy pesto gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2-3 days.

• Reheating: Reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a little extra cream or broth to loosen the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

FAQs

1. Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought pesto works perfectly fine in this recipe. Just make sure to choose a high-quality pesto for the best flavor.

2. What type of gnocchi should I use?

You can use any type of uncooked potato gnocchi for this recipe. Fresh or frozen gnocchi both work well.

3. Can I make this recipe without wine?

Yes, you can substitute the dry white wine with chicken broth or vegetable broth if you prefer not to use wine.

4. How can I make this dish spicier?

Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for a spicy kick.

5. Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

While this dish is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. Just cook the gnocchi and combine everything when you’re ready to serve.

6. Can I freeze this creamy pesto gnocchi?

Freezing is not recommended for this recipe, as the creamy sauce may separate once thawed. It’s best enjoyed fresh.

7. How do I prevent the sauce from getting too thick?

If the sauce gets too thick, simply add a splash of cream or wine to thin it out to your desired consistency.

8. Can I use a different cheese besides parmesan?

Yes, you can use other cheeses like pecorino romano or asiago for a different flavor, though parmesan is the classic choice.

9. Can I add protein to this dish?

Absolutely! Grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy bacon make excellent additions to this creamy pesto gnocchi.

10. What’s the best way to serve this dish?

Serve it hot as a main dish or as a side to grilled meats or salads. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables.

Conclusion

Creamy pesto gnocchi is a fast, flavorful dish that delivers comfort with every bite. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a delicious, creamy meal ready in under 20 minutes. Whether you’re serving it as a side or a main, this recipe is bound to be a crowd-pleaser!