This Easy Creamy Pesto Gnocchi is a simple, delicious dish that’s perfect for a quick dinner. Soft gnocchi meets a rich, creamy pesto sauce for a cozy meal!
You won’t believe how quick this dish comes together. I love tossing in veggies or some chicken too—makes it even better! It’s like a big hug on a plate! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gnocchi: You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience, but homemade can be more satisfying. If you want a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free gnocchi made from rice or corn flour.
Basil Pesto: Store-bought pesto is a time-saver, but homemade is fresher. If you’re out of basil, try using spinach or arugula instead to make a different style of pesto!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the sauce, but you can substitute it with half-and-half for a lighter version. For a non-dairy option, coconut cream or cashew cream works well.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated Parmesan gives nice flavor. If you need a non-dairy replacement, nutritional yeast offers an excellent cheesy flavor.
How Do I Make the Creamy Sauce Just Right?
Creating the creamy sauce is straightforward but requires attention. Start by melting the butter over medium heat, then add the heavy cream. To ensure the sauce thickens perfectly, watch for a gentle simmer, not a boil.
- Once simmering, mix in the basil pesto and let it cook for 2-3 minutes. This helps the flavors meld!
- Gently add the cooked gnocchi, using a spatula to toss and coat them without breaking them.
- After adding the cheese, adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper. Taste as you go!
Easy Creamy Pesto Gnocchi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (about 500g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Red pepper flakes, for garnish (optional)
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Time Estimate:
This dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and 10 minutes of cooking time, so you’ll have a delicious dinner ready in just 20 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Gnocchi:
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once it’s bubbling, add the gnocchi. Cook them according to the package instructions, which is usually until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to scoop out the gnocchi and transfer them to a bowl. Set them aside for later.
2. Make the Creamy Sauce:
In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once it’s melted, stir in the heavy cream and let it come to a gentle simmer. Be careful not to let it boil too vigorously.
3. Add the Pesto:
Add the basil pesto to the skillet and mix it well with the cream. Let the sauce cook for about 2-3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and the flavors to blend beautifully.
4. Combine Gnocchi and Sauce:
Gently add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet. Use a spatula or tongs to gently toss the gnocchi in the creamy pesto sauce, making sure they are well-coated. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until everything is heated through.
5. Final Touches:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and taste your dish. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Give it a quick stir to mix everything together.
6. Serve:
Transfer the creamy pesto gnocchi to serving bowls. If you like a little heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top, and add a few fresh basil leaves for that beautiful finish. Serve immediately and enjoy your hearty, comforting meal!
FAQ about Easy Creamy Pesto Gnocchi
Can I Use Gluten-Free Gnocchi?
Absolutely! You can find gluten-free gnocchi made from rice or potato flour at most grocery stores. Just cook it according to the package instructions as you would regular gnocchi.
Can I Make This Recipe Vegetarian or Vegan?
Yes! To make it vegetarian, ensure your pesto is meat-free, and for a vegan option, use a dairy-free cream alternative such as coconut cream or cashew cream, and omit the Parmesan or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving as it may make the gnocchi mushy.
What Additional Ingredients Can I Add for More Flavor?
Feel free to toss in some sautéed vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or mushrooms to add more nutrition and flavor. You can also include cooked chicken or shrimp for added protein!
