Creamy Pesto Gnocchi

Description

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi

Indulge in the comforting embrace of creamy pesto gnocchi! This dish combines tender gnocchi with a rich and velvety pesto sauce, perfect as a side dish or a meatless main course. Made in just one pan, it’s a quick, satisfying meal that’s ready in only 20 minutes—ideal for those busy weeknights when you crave something simple yet gourmet. Let the magic of pesto, cream, and parmesan create a cozy bowl of deliciousness!

1/4 cup pesto
1 cup heavy cream
1/4 cup dry white wine or chicken broth
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 lb uncooked potato gnocchi
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan
Salt & pepper to taste

Directions:
1. Add pesto, cream, wine, and garlic to a deep skillet over medium heat.
2. When sauce bubbles, stir in gnocchi. Cover and cook for 5 minutes.
3. Uncover, stir, and cook until thickened. Stir in parmesan, season, and serve.

Prep Time: 5 mins
Kcal: 350 per serving

Step-by-Step Guide

Follow these detailed instructions for perfect creamy pesto gnocchi every time.

1. Prepare Ingredients: Mince the garlic and grate the parmesan cheese. Measure out all other ingredients before starting to cook.
2. Combine Sauce Base: In a large, deep skillet, combine the pesto, heavy cream, white wine (or broth), and minced garlic. Place the skillet over medium heat.
3. Simmer and Cook Gnocchi: Bring the sauce to a gentle bubble. Add the entire package of uncooked gnocchi directly to the skillet. Stir gently to coat the gnocchi in the sauce.
4. Cover and Steam: Cover the skillet with a lid. Allow the gnocchi to cook in the simmering sauce for 5 minutes. This steams the gnocchi and infuses it with flavor.
5. Thicken the Sauce: Remove the lid. Stir the gnocchi and continue cooking for another 2-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened to a creamy consistency that coats the back of a spoon.
6. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat. Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve immediately.

Serving Suggestions

This versatile dish can be elevated with simple additions. For a complete meal, top with grilled chicken, shrimp, or sautéed mushrooms. Serve alongside a crisp arugula salad with a lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garnish with extra grated parmesan, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil, fresh basil leaves, or a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts for added texture and flavor.

How-to Summary

Create a luxurious one-pan meal by simmering pesto, cream, wine, and garlic. Add store-bought gnocchi, cover to cook through, then uncover to thicken the sauce. Finish by stirring in parmesan cheese and seasoning. Ready in under 20 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different type of gnocchi? Yes. While potato gnocchi is classic, you can use cauliflower or whole-wheat gnocchi. Adjust cooking time slightly as needed.

How can I make this dish dairy-free? Substitute the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream. Use a vegan parmesan alternative or nutritional yeast.

What if my sauce is too thin? Let it simmer uncovered for a few more minutes to reduce. You can also create a quick slurry with 1 tsp of cornstarch and 1 tbsp of water, then stir it into the simmering sauce.

Can I prepare this ahead of time? It’s best served fresh. The gnocchi can become soft upon reheating. If necessary, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of cream or broth.

Is the wine necessary? No, but it adds depth. Chicken or vegetable broth is a fine substitute. For more flavor, use the liquid from a jar of sun-dried tomatoes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Gnocchi: Once added to the sauce, stick to the covered cooking time. Overcooking makes gnocchi gummy.
• Using Pre-Grated Parmesan: Pre-grated cheese contains anti-caking agents that prevent it from melting smoothly. Always grate your own.
• Boiling the Sauce: Keep the heat at a steady medium to maintain a gentle simmer. A rapid boil can cause the cream to separate.
• Adding Cheese on High Heat: Always remove the skillet from the heat before stirring in the parmesan to avoid a grainy sauce.

Conclusion

This creamy pesto gnocchi recipe proves that a decadent, restaurant-quality meal is entirely achievable on a busy weeknight. With its one-pan simplicity, rich and velvety sauce, and customizable serving options, it’s a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. Mastering the few key techniques—like not overcooking the gnocchi and finishing with fresh parmesan off the heat—ensures perfect results every time. Enjoy this cozy, satisfying dish that brings a touch of gourmet comfort to your table in just 20 minutes.