15-Minute Creamy Pesto Gnocchi – Quick & Delicious Dinner Recipe | MagicInKitchen.com

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi

Make this 15-Minute Creamy Pesto Gnocchi! Quick, cheesy, and flavorful dinner perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy meal in minutes.

Introduction

Craving a quick, comforting, and flavorful dinner? This 15-Minute Creamy Pesto Gnocchi is the ultimate solution. Soft, pillowy gnocchi smothered in a rich, creamy pesto sauce comes together in just minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this recipe will quickly become a go-to in your recipe collection.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 1/2 cup heavy cream or coconut cream
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Optional: toasted pine nuts or cherry tomatoes for garnish

Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually until they float to the surface, about 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Creamy Pesto Sauce

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the pesto and cream, heating until warm and slightly thickened.

Step 3: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss gently to coat with the creamy pesto sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Serve

Plate the gnocchi and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Garnish with toasted pine nuts or cherry tomatoes if desired. Serve immediately for a warm, flavorful dinner.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super quick: Ready in just 15 minutes, perfect for busy evenings.
• Creamy and flavorful: Rich pesto sauce coats every bite of tender gnocchi.
• Minimal ingredients: Pantry-friendly and simple to prepare.
• Customizable: Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for extra protein and variety.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair with a fresh green salad for a light, balanced meal.
• Serve alongside garlic bread for a comforting Italian-inspired dinner.
• Drizzle with extra olive oil or balsamic glaze for added flavor and presentation.

Tips for Perfect Gnocchi

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi—they cook very quickly.
• Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor and texture.
• If the sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water to loosen it.

Tips for the Perfect Gnocchi

To make the perfect creamy gnocchi, be careful not to overcook it—gnocchi cooks very quickly and should float to the top of the water when done. Using freshly grated Parmesan will enhance the flavor and give the sauce a silky texture. If your sauce becomes too thick, add a splash of pasta water or cream to loosen it and coat the gnocchi evenly.

Variations to Try

This recipe is highly versatile. Add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sautéed vegetables like cherry tomatoes and spinach to make it a complete meal. For a vegan option, substitute coconut cream and nutritional yeast for the cheese. You can also experiment with different types of pesto, such as sun-dried tomato or arugula pesto, to give this quick dinner a unique twist.

FAQ

Q: Can I use store-bought pesto?
A: Yes! Store-bought pesto works perfectly, but homemade pesto will add even more flavor.

Q: Can I make this vegan?
A: Use coconut cream or cashew cream and skip the Parmesan, or use a vegan cheese alternative.

Q: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
A: Gnocchi is best served fresh, but you can make the sauce ahead and reheat gently with freshly cooked gnocchi.

Conclusion

This 15-Minute Creamy Pesto Gnocchi is a quick, easy, and flavorful dinner that will satisfy your cravings for comfort food without the hassle. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, it’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with pesto goodness. Try it tonight, and explore more quick and delicious dinner recipes at Magic in Kitchen.