Description
This Creamy Pesto & Spinach Gnocchi Bake is a comforting one-pan dish featuring soft gnocchi in a luscious creamy pesto sauce, baked with a golden cheesy crust. Quick, easy, and perfect for a cozy dinner!
Ingredients
Scale
- 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
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/4 cup toasted pine nuts (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat & Prep: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish or oven-safe skillet.
- Sauté Garlic & Spinach: In an oven-safe skillet, heat oil or butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in spinach and cook until wilted, about 2 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in heavy cream and milk, stirring to combine. Add pesto, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 2 minutes.
- Add the Gnocchi: Fold in gnocchi, ensuring they are coated in sauce. Simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly softened.
- Add Cheese & Bake: Stir in Parmesan, then sprinkle mozzarella on top. Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15 minutes until bubbly.
- Broil for a Golden Crust: Broil for 2-3 minutes for a crispy, golden finish.
- Garnish & Serve: Let rest for 5 minutes, garnish with toasted pine nuts if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or pancetta.
- Use Different Greens: Substitute spinach with kale, arugula, or Swiss chard.
- Make It Lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or plant-based alternatives.
- Gluten-Free Option: Use gluten-free gnocchi and pesto.
- Extra Veggies: Add sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Casserole
- Method: baking,sauting
- Cuisine: italian
Keywords: creamy pesto gnocchi, baked gnocchi, one-pan gnocchi, spinach gnocchi bake, easy vegetarian dinner