Pesto Gnocchi

This recipe for Pesto Gnocchi is both comforting and bursting with flavor. The combination of pillowy soft gnocchi with a vibrant green creamy pesto sauce is one that you are going to love!

About the Recipe

With just six simple ingredients, this is a straightforward and quick recipe to make. Using store-bought gnocchi and pesto this is an easy meal to whip up and it is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Everyone will love the soft and chewy texture of the gnocchi combined with the bold flavors of the pesto. 

This is the prefect meal to prepare whenever you are in the mood for a heartwarming and flavorful meal. The simple preparation and delicious flavor make it a great option when you are planning a family dinner, a date night at home, or a gathering with friends.

If you are looking for more pasta recipes, check out our: Tuna Carbonara, Chicken Pesto Linguine, Pesto Alfredo, Tortellini Pasta Salad or Tuscan Chicken Pasta.

Jump to:

• About the Recipe
• Why You Will Love This Recipe
• Ingredients
• Directions
• Expert Tips and Tricks
• Kitchen Equipment
• Recipe Substitutions/Variations
• What To Serve With
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Recipe Storage and Reheating
• Other Recipes to Try
• Pesto Gnocchi

Why You Will Love This Recipe

Delicious - The aromatic flavors of the pesto perfectly compliments the soft and tender gnocchi. Each bite is a mouthful of delicious flavor!

Simple - This meal can be completed from start to finish in about 15 minutes. It is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious meal but don’t have much time to spend in the kitchen. And even better, you can easily find all of the ingredients at your local grocery store!

Impressive - This is prefect to serve to guests because it looks and tastes impressive. You can easily showcase your culinary skills without too much effort!

Ingredients

Here are the ingredients you will need for this pesto gnocchi recipe: 

• Gnocchi - I used regular sized gnocchi, but you can use mini gnocchi as well. You can also make your own gnocchi. Check out my guide here!
• Pesto - You can use store-bought pesto or fresh homemade basil pesto.
• Pasta water - Be sure to reserve water from the pot the gnocchi cooks in to add to the sauce.
• Heavy cream
• Salt
• Basil - Use fresh basil leaves for serving.

Directions

Let's make this great recipe together! 

Step 1: In a large pot of salted water, cook the gnocchi according to package directions. Reserve ¼ cup of the cooking water before draining.

Step 2: Heat a large pan over low heat and add the pesto and pasta water. Stir to combine.

Step 3: Add the cream and a pinch of salt and stir to combine.

Step 4: Add the cooked gnocchi to pan. Toss well and serve with fresh basil.

Expert Tips and Tricks

Here are some expert tips to make this easy recipe: 

Salt the water - Don’t forget to generously salt the water when cooking the gnocchi. This will help to season the gnocchi and add more flavor to your entire dish.

Follow instructions - Be sure to follow the instructions for cooking time on the gnocchi package. Typically you cook them in the boiling water just until they begin to float to the surface. Overcooking will cause them to be mushy.

Serve immediately - Serve this gnocchi when it is hot and fresh. The flavors will be at their peak right after you’ve tossed the gnocchi with the pesto. I love serving this with garlic bread and white wine!

Kitchen Equipment

Here is some kitchen equipment you will need for this simple dinner. You can find all of these products on Amazon.

Large Pot - A quality large pot is important for any home cook! It's a go-to for making soups, pastas, and dishes for a crowd.

Large Pan - You'll want a high quality large skillet with enough room to toss the gnocchi.

Recipe Substitutions/Variations

Here are some common recipe substitutions and variations for this easy dinner:

Make it Spicy - Add some spice to this dish with red pepper flakes for a delicious kick.

Pasta Substitution - You can also make this recipe with any other dry pasta that you have on hand. You might even try using cauliflower gnocchi for a similar flavor and texture to potato gnocchi.

Additions - Try adding roasted pine nuts or walnuts for a nutty flavor and crunchy texture. Add some extra parmesan cheese, fresh mozzarella, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil as a finishing touch. Toss in fresh cherry tomatoes, fresh spinach, or bell peppers for extra color.

Protein - You can add rotisserie chicken, chicken breasts or your favorite protein to this recipe.

What To Serve With

Here are some recipes to serve alongside this tasty meal:

Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms - These Cream Cheese Stuffed Mushrooms are a delightful bite sized little treat. The mushroom caps are filled with cream cheese that is mixed with parmesan, thyme, rosemary and sage. This is a perfect party appetizer or they even make a great side dish!

Fire Roasted Tomatoes - These Fire Roasted Tomatoes are a delicious recipe you have to make! Sliced tomatoes are tossed with olive oil and Italian seasoning, then roasted in a hot oven until they are perfectly charred and delicious.

Roasted Italian Cauliflower - This easy Roasted Italian Cauliflower recipe is so good! With only a few steps, this veggie side dish comes together quickly and is delicious with any meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

Recipe Storage and Reheating

Here are storage and reheating instructions for leftover gnocchi.

Refrigerator Storage: Store in an airtight container and eat leftovers within 4-5 days.

Freezer Storage: Freeze in a freezer-safe, airtight container and keep for up to 3 months. When you're ready to use, thaw in the refrigerator and reheat as instructed below.

Reheating Instructions: The best way to reheat this recipe is to heat in a skillet with a little olive oil over low heat until warm.

Other Recipes to Try