Description
This Best Creamy Pesto Gnocchi recipe offers a luscious blend of tender potato gnocchi enveloped in a rich and smooth basil pesto cream sauce. Enhanced with garlic, Parmesan cheese, and fresh cherry tomatoes, this flavorful dish is perfect for a comforting Italian-inspired main course that’s quick and easy to prepare on the stovetop.
Ingredients
Scale
Gnocchi
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup reserved pasta water
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Optional: 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Cook Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the top, then drain the gnocchi, reserving 1/2 cup of the cooking water.
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Prepare Cream Sauce: Add the heavy cream to the skillet and bring it to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
- Incorporate Pesto and Cheese: Stir in the basil pesto and grated Parmesan cheese until the sauce becomes smooth and creamy, blending all the flavors together evenly.
- Season Sauce: Add salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using, adjusting seasoning to taste.
- Toss Gnocchi and Tomatoes: Add the cooked gnocchi and halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet, tossing gently to coat them with the sauce. Add a splash of the reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if it appears too thick.
- Heat Through: Cook everything together for 2 to 3 minutes until the gnocchi and tomatoes are warm and well combined with the sauce.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat and stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves just before serving. Serve the dish warm for best flavor and texture.
Notes
- You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or spinach for extra protein and nutrients.
- Use store-bought pesto for convenience or homemade pesto for a fresher flavor.
- If the sauce becomes too thick, add more reserved pasta water to reach your desired consistency.
