Creamy Pesto Gnocchi: The Best Comfort Dish for Quick Gourmet Flavor

Creamy pesto gnocchi in a white skillet
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Looking for a creamy, comforting, yet elevated weeknight meal? Creamy pesto gnocchi hits the sweet spot between effortless and indulgent. This one-pan dish combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a rich, garlicky pesto cream sauce that clings to every bite. Whether you’re cooking for your family or treating yourself to a solo dinner win, this recipe delivers bold flavor with simple ingredients.

In this article, you’ll discover how to make creamy pesto gnocchi from scratch in under 20 minutes. We’ll also explore ingredient tips, variations, storage advice, and sauce pairings—all optimized to bring out the best of this Italian-inspired favorite.

Don’t miss our Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach for another delicious version of this classic!

Why You’ll Love Creamy Pesto Gnocchi

Perfect Blend of Creaminess and Herbaceousness

The magic lies in the balance of creamy and bright flavors. Heavy cream rounds out the sharpness of garlic and pesto, creating a sauce that’s velvety yet zippy. Gnocchi’s starch thickens the sauce naturally, no flour required.

Simple Pantry Ingredients, Big Flavor

You only need a few accessible ingredients—cream, pesto, white wine or broth, and gnocchi—to build layers of gourmet flavor. It’s a great base for adding your own twists too, from sun-dried tomatoes to spinach or chicken. Ingredients Breakdown & Smart Swaps

Core Ingredients for Creamy Pesto Gnocchi

Simple ingredients, big flavor
IngredientAmountPurpose
Pesto¼ cupAdds herby, nutty flavor
Heavy Cream1 cupGives rich, creamy base
Dry White Wine or Broth¼ cupAdds acidity and depth
Garlic (minced)2 clovesAromatic flavor enhancer
Potato Gnocchi (uncooked)1 lbStarchy, pillowy pasta
Parmesan (fresh grated)½ cupSalty finish, umami
Salt & PepperTo tasteSeasoning

Ingredient Variations

  • Pesto Substitute: Try sun-dried tomato pesto or vegan basil pesto.
  • Cream Alternative: Use coconut cream or a mix of milk + cream cheese.
  • Protein Add-ins: Cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta are great.
  • Extra Veggies: Spinach, peas, or mushrooms pair beautifully.

Check out Creamy Cajun Chicken Pasta for ideas on adding protein to creamy dishes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Quick Method for a One-Pan Creamy Gnocchi

  1. Make the Sauce Base
    In a deep skillet over medium heat, add:
  • ¼ cup pesto
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup white wine or chicken broth
  • 2 minced garlic cloves

Let it bubble gently.

  1. Add the Gnocchi
    Stir in 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi.
    Cover and simmer for 5 minutes.
  2. Finish the Sauce
    Uncover, stir, and cook 2–3 more minutes. Gnocchi releases starch, thickening the sauce.
  3. Add Cheese & Season
    Turn off the heat and stir in ½ cup Parmesan. Adjust thickness with extra wine/cream if needed. Add salt and pepper to taste.

Pro Tip: No need to boil the gnocchi first—one pan is all you need.

Discover great ideas like this from our Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Orzo, another creamy, one-pan wonder. Storage, Reheating & Meal Prep Tips

How to Store Leftover Creamy Pesto Gnocchi

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove with a splash of cream or broth to rehydrate the sauce.

Can You Freeze It?

Not ideal. The cream sauce tends to split. If freezing, avoid adding Parmesan until reheating.

Looking for inspiration? Try Hidden Veggie Mac and Cheese for a freezable cheesy dinner option. Expert Tips for Perfect Gnocchi Texture

Use Shelf-Stable or Fresh Gnocchi

Both work well. Shelf-stable gnocchi is easier for storage, while fresh gnocchi may cook quicker.

Don’t Overcook the Sauce

Cream sauces can reduce too quickly. Keep heat at medium-low and add more liquid as needed.

Check out Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta with Spinach for more creamy pasta inspiration.

What to Serve with Creamy Pesto Gnocchi

Best Sides & Pairings

  • Arugula salad with balsamic vinaigrette
  • Garlic bread or crusty sourdough
  • Roasted cherry tomatoes
  • Grilled chicken or shrimp

Drink Pairings

  • Crisp Sauvignon Blanc
  • Sparkling water with lemon
  • Dry Rosé

Flavor Variations to Try

Vegan Version

Swap cream for coconut milk or oat cream, and use vegan pesto and Parmesan.

Spicy Version

Add crushed red pepper flakes or blend pesto with a spicy chili oil.

Don’t miss our Zucchini Squash and Tomatoes recipe for a veggie-rich pairing option

Creamy pesto gnocchi plated and ready

FAQs

How long do pesto gnocchi last in the fridge?

Up to 3 days when stored in an airtight container. Reheat gently with a bit of cream.

What does pesto taste like?

Pesto is herby, garlicky, nutty, and slightly salty with a fresh green taste from basil and richness from oil and Parmesan.

What sauce to do with gnocchi?

Beyond pesto cream, try brown butter sage, tomato cream, or a simple garlic olive oil sauce.

This creamy pesto gnocchi isn’t just fast—it’s full of flavor, family-friendly, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re looking for an elegant weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend indulgence, this recipe delivers.

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Creamy pesto gnocchi in a white skillet

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi: The Best Comfort Dish for Quick Gourmet Flavor

This creamy pesto gnocchi recipe is the perfect combination of rich, comforting, and fresh. Made in just one pan and ready in under 20 minutes, it’s a go-to dinner for busy nights when you still crave bold, homemade flavor. Pillowy potato gnocchi is simmered in a luscious pesto cream sauce, enhanced with garlic, white wine, and Parmesan for an irresistibly smooth and herby finish. It’s a versatile dish that can be served as-is or elevated with your favorite proteins and vegetables. Whether you’re cooking for guests or making a cozy meal for one, this recipe delivers gourmet results with minimal effort.

  • Total Time: 15min
  • Yield: 4 serving 1x

Ingredients

Scale
  • ¼ cup pesto
  • 1 cup heavy or whipping cream
  • ¼ cup dry white wine or chicken broth
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lb uncooked potato gnocchi
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. add pesto, cream, wine, and minced garlic to a large skillet over medium heat. Stir and let it bubble gently.
  2. Stir in the uncooked gnocchi, cover with a lid, and let it cook for 5 minutes.
  3. Uncover and stir well. Let it simmer 2–3 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens.
  4. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. If sauce thickens too much, add a splash of cream or wine.
  5. Season with salt and pepper, serve hot, and enjoy!

Notes

  • Wine substitute: Use chicken broth if you prefer alcohol-free.

  • Too thick? Add a splash of cream or broth to thin it.

  • Add-ons: Grilled chicken, spinach, or sun-dried tomatoes are great optio

  • Author: Katherine
  • Prep Time: 5min
  • Cook Time: 10min
  • Category: Week Night Recipes
  • Cuisine: spanish

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 480 kcal
  • Fat: 28g
  • Carbohydrates: 42g
  • Protein: 12g

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