If you’re dreaming of a quick yet indulgently comforting meal, this Pesto Gnocchi Recipe is exactly what your kitchen needs. Soft, pillowy gnocchi lightly browned for a tender bite, drenched in vibrant, herb-packed pesto, and finished with a sprinkle of sharp Parmesan—all come together in just 20 minutes. It’s a simple, flavorful dish that feels special enough for guests but easy enough for any weeknight dinner. Trust me, once you try this Pesto Gnocchi Recipe, it might just become your go-to comfort food that’s bursting with fresh, summery flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Pesto Gnocchi Recipe calls for a handful of straightforward ingredients, each playing a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. With a balance between convenience and freshness, you’re set for a truly satisfying dish.
- 1 pound store-bought gnocchi: Using ready-to-cook gnocchi saves time while delivering that soft, tender bite gnocchi are famous for.
- 1/3 cup store-bought or homemade pesto sauce: Brings vibrant green color and a punch of basil, garlic, pine nuts, and cheese that’s signature to this dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps lightly brown the gnocchi, adding a subtle crispness that contrasts its fluffiness.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a salty, nutty finish that enriches the pesto’s flavors beautifully.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance the overall flavor.
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional): Adds a fresh, aromatic touch and elevates the plate’s presentation.
How to Make Pesto Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in the store-bought gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, which is typically around 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they float to the surface—light, fluffy, and ready for the next step. Once cooked, drain them carefully and set aside, but don’t skip that slight salt in the water—it seasons the gnocchi from within.
Step 2: Brown the Gnocchi
Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering. Add your cooked gnocchi and sauté them gently for about 1 to 2 minutes. This step creates a delicate golden crust on the outside while keeping the inside wonderfully soft, adding a textural contrast that makes each bite super satisfying.
Step 3: Combine with Pesto
Now it’s time to bring all the amazing flavors together. Pour the pesto sauce over the gnocchi in the skillet and toss everything gently to ensure that every piece is coated with that luscious, herby green magic. Let it cook for another 1 to 2 minutes, stirring now and then so the pesto heats through evenly without losing its fresh essence.
Step 4: Finish and Season
Once your gnocchi and pesto are perfectly combined and warmed, season everything with salt and pepper to your liking. Sprinkle on the grated Parmesan cheese and give everything a light toss so the cheese melts into the warm gnocchi, lending richness and an irresistible cheesy touch.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
The final flourish is optional but highly recommended—fresh basil leaves scattered on top add a pop of color and a boost of fragrant flavor that makes the dish feel truly fresh and homemade. Your Pesto Gnocchi Recipe is now ready to delight.
How to Serve Pesto Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves are a classic choice, but you can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch or drizzle a bit more olive oil to add a glossy finish. A few red pepper flakes can introduce a gentle kick if you like a little heat. Each garnish not only enhances the visual appeal but layers in delicious complexity.
Side Dishes
This Pesto Gnocchi Recipe pairs beautifully with crisp green salads dressed in lemon vinaigrette, roasted vegetables like asparagus or cherry tomatoes, or even a simple garlic bread on the side to scoop up every last bit of pesto. Keep the sides light and fresh to balance the gnocchi’s richness perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For an elegant touch, serve your pesto gnocchi on warm plates garnished with microgreens or edible flowers. If you’re hosting, try individual ramekins or a rustic wooden board with slices of crusty bread. A sprinkle of extra Parmesan at the table invites guests to customize their serving—a lovely interactive element.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you happen to have leftovers from this Pesto Gnocchi Recipe, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They will keep well for up to 2 days. Before storing, allow the gnocchi to cool to room temperature to maintain texture and avoid sogginess.
Freezing
Because of the pesto sauce and fresh basil, freezing pesto gnocchi is not ideal as it can affect the texture and flavor. However, if you want to freeze gnocchi pre-cooked and plain, do so ahead of time and cook them fresh when ready. Otherwise, it’s best enjoyed fresh for maximum flavor.
Reheating
Gently reheat your leftovers in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking and to bring warmth evenly. You can add a splash of olive oil or a little water if it feels dry. Avoid microwaving too long as it can make the gnocchi gummy—stovetop reheating preserves their delightful texture best.
FAQs
Can I use homemade gnocchi for this Pesto Gnocchi Recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi can add an extra level of freshness and personalization. Just adjust cooking time as needed since homemade versions might cook a bit faster or slower depending on size and texture.
Is it necessary to brown the gnocchi before adding pesto?
Browning the gnocchi is highly recommended because it creates a lovely crispy exterior that contrasts nicely with the creamy pesto, adding more flavor and texture to the dish.
What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese if I’m lactose intolerant?
Try using nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without dairy, or check out plant-based Parmesan alternatives available in many stores. These keep the dish flavorful while accommodating your dietary needs.
Can I make the pesto sauce from scratch for this recipe?
Yes! Homemade pesto using fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan, and olive oil will make this recipe even more vibrant and fresh. Plus, it’s easy to customize the ingredients to your taste when making it yourself.
How spicy is this Pesto Gnocchi Recipe?
The base recipe is mild, focused on fresh basil and garlic flavors. You can add a bit of crushed red pepper or black pepper to increase heat if you enjoy a spicier kick.
Final Thoughts
This Pesto Gnocchi Recipe is like a warm hug on a plate—simple ingredients transformed into a dish bursting with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, it’s a joyful, vibrant meal that’s quick to pull together and hard to forget. Give it a try and let the bright basil pesto and soft gnocchi become a new favorite in your kitchen!
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Pesto Gnocchi 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
A quick and flavorful Pesto Gnocchi recipe featuring store-bought gnocchi sautéed to golden perfection and tossed in a vibrant pesto sauce, garnished with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Ready in just 20 minutes, this dish is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Gnocchi
- 1 pound store-bought gnocchi
Sauce and Garnish
- 1/3 cup store-bought or homemade pesto sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
- Prepare the Pesto Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the Gnocchi: Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet and sauté for 1-2 minutes until they are lightly browned on the edges.
- Combine with Pesto: Add pesto sauce to the skillet and toss the gnocchi to coat evenly. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes, stirring gently until heated through and well coated.
- Serve: Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the gnocchi and toss lightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Use fresh basil pesto for a more vibrant flavor.
- For a vegan version, substitute Parmesan cheese with a plant-based alternative.
- Cooking gnocchi until they float ensures they are perfectly cooked.
- Do not overcrowd the skillet when sautéing to achieve even browning.
- Leftover pesto gnocchi can be refrigerated and reheated gently in a skillet.
