Creamy Pesto & Spinach Gnocchi Bake

A Comforting, Flavor-Packed One-Pan Dish

This Creamy Pesto & Spinach Gnocchi Bake is a rich and satisfying meal that brings together pillowy soft gnocchi, a luscious creamy pesto sauce, and fresh spinach, all baked to perfection with a golden, cheesy crust. It’s a perfect dish for a cozy dinner, offering restaurant-quality flavors with minimal effort. Plus, it comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy – Ready in under 30 minutes with minimal prep.
• One-Pan Convenience – Fewer dishes mean less cleanup.
• Rich & Comforting – A creamy, cheesy sauce coats every bite.
• Vegetarian-Friendly – A satisfying meatless meal.
• Customizable – Easily add protein or swap in different greens.

Ingredients

• 1 lb (16 oz) potato gnocchi
• 2 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup whole milk
• ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• ¼ cup toasted pine nuts (optional, for garnish)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Preheat & Prep

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.

2. Sauté the Garlic & Spinach

In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.

3. Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Add the pesto, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Mix well and let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes.

4. Add the Gnocchi

Gently fold in the gnocchi, making sure they are evenly coated in the sauce. Let them simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.

5. Add Cheese & Bake

Stir in the grated Parmesan, then sprinkle shredded mozzarella over the top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

6. Broil for a Golden Crust

For a crispy, golden finish, broil the dish for an additional 2-3 minutes, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.

7. Garnish & Serve

Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with toasted pine nuts for added texture, if desired. Serve warm.

Variations & Add-Ins

• Add Protein – Stir in cooked chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta for extra heartiness.
• Use Different Greens – Swap spinach for kale, arugula, or Swiss chard.
• Make It Lighter – Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or swap for a plant-based alternative.
• Gluten-Free Option – Use gluten-free gnocchi and check that your pesto is gluten-free.
• Extra Veggies – Add sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for more depth of flavor.

Servings & Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes

Storage & Reheating

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm in the microwave in 30-second increments or in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore the creamy texture.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the creamy sauce may separate upon thawing.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I keep the gnocchi from getting too soft?

Gnocchi naturally softens as it absorbs liquid. To prevent overcooking, simmer only for a few minutes before baking.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake when ready, adding a few extra minutes to account for the chilled ingredients.

What’s the best pesto to use?

A high-quality store-bought pesto works great, but homemade pesto will provide the freshest flavor.

Can I make this without an oven-safe skillet?

Absolutely! Prepare the sauce on the stovetop, then transfer everything to a greased baking dish before baking.

Is there a dairy-free version?

Yes, use plant-based milk, dairy-free pesto, and vegan cheese substitutes.

Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Definitely! Just ensure it’s firm enough to hold up to baking.

How can I make this dish spicier?

Increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

What other cheeses work well in this dish?

Fontina, provolone, or Gruyère can be great substitutes for mozzarella.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, but thaw it first for even cooking.

What should I serve with this dish?

A fresh green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables pair well.

Conclusion

This Creamy Pesto & Spinach Gnocchi Bake is a rich, comforting dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a go-to recipe that’s sure to impress. Whether you keep it simple or customize it with your favorite add-ins, this creamy, cheesy bake will become a staple in your meal rotation.

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