Description
This creamy pesto gnocchi recipe combines tender gnocchi with a rich sauce made from pesto, heavy cream, and Parmesan cheese, flavored with garlic and red pepper flakes. It’s a quick and comforting Italian-inspired dish perfect for a cozy dinner or a satisfying meal any day of the week.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- ⅓ cup pesto
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes, or more to taste
- ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked gnocchi
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the sauce: Add the pesto, heavy cream, chicken or vegetable broth, and minced garlic to a Dutch oven or deep skillet. Heat the mixture over medium heat until it begins to bubble gently, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Add the gnocchi and simmer: Stir in the uncooked gnocchi, then cover the pan. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to cook through and absorb the sauce flavors.
- Thicken the sauce: Remove the lid and stir the gnocchi to prevent sticking. Continue cooking for another 5 minutes on low heat, stirring frequently as the sauce thickens and coats the gnocchi evenly.
- Finish with seasoning and cheese: Stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, red pepper flakes, freshly cracked black pepper, and salt to taste. If the sauce becomes too thick, thin it by adding a small amount of cream or broth to reach desired consistency.
- Serve and garnish: Transfer the creamy pesto gnocchi to a serving bowl. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, a sprinkle of remaining Parmesan cheese, and additional cracked fresh black pepper if desired. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Notes
- Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for the best flavor and creaminess. Avoid pre-grated or shaker-style cheese.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your taste.
- Gnocchi can stick to the pan if not stirred frequently during the final cooking stage, so keep an eye on it.
- This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or steamed vegetables to balance the richness.
- For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
