Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Parmesan Cheese

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Parmesan Cheese is a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that combines pillowy soft gnocchi with a rich, creamy pesto sauce. Bursting with fresh basil, garlic, and Parmesan, this dish is both indulgent and satisfying.

I love this recipe because it’s simple to prepare yet elegant enough for a dinner party. The creaminess of the sauce pairs perfectly with the tender gnocchi, while the Parmesan adds a salty, nutty depth. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, cozy meals at home, or even a special occasion where you want something flavorful but fuss-free.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love this recipe because it’s quick, comforting, and full of flavor. The gnocchi are soft and tender, soaking up the creamy pesto sauce beautifully. Each bite offers a balance of fresh basil, garlic, and nutty Parmesan.

The creaminess makes it indulgent without being heavy, and it’s easy to customize with vegetables, chicken, or even sun-dried tomatoes. It’s also visually appealing, with vibrant green pesto coating the gnocchi, making it as attractive as it is delicious.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try

This dish is a must-try because it transforms simple store-bought or homemade gnocchi into a gourmet, restaurant-quality meal in under 30 minutes. The creamy pesto sauce enhances the gnocchi’s texture and flavor, making every bite rich and satisfying.

It’s perfect for vegetarian meals, weeknight dinners, or when you want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen. The combination of creamy sauce, fresh herbs, and Parmesan makes it irresistible and memorable.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 10 minutes
• Cooking Time: 15 minutes
• Total Time: 25 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approx. 480 kcal per serving
• Cuisine: Italian
• Course: Main Course / Dinner

Ingredients

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

Simple Cooking Directions

1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté garlic for 1 minute.
3. Add heavy cream and pesto, stirring until combined and smooth.
4. Add cooked gnocchi to the sauce and toss until evenly coated.
5. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
6. Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil, cherry tomatoes, or pine nuts, and serve immediately.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

1. Cook Gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Make Pesto Cream Sauce: Reduce heat slightly and stir in heavy cream and pesto. Cook for 2–3 minutes until smooth and slightly thickened.
4. Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet. Toss gently to coat each piece in the creamy pesto sauce.
5. Add Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
6. Garnish and Serve: Transfer gnocchi to a serving plate. Garnish with extra Parmesan, fresh basil leaves, cherry tomatoes, or toasted pine nuts if desired. Serve immediately.

How to Serve

• Serve hot as a main course for lunch or dinner.
• Pair with a simple green salad and garlic bread.
• Drizzle extra pesto or sprinkle additional Parmesan for presentation and flavor.

Additional Recipe Tips

• Use fresh basil pesto for the best flavor, but store-bought works fine in a pinch.
• Gnocchi cooks quickly—avoid overcooking to maintain its tender texture.
• Reserve a little pasta water to loosen the sauce if it becomes too thick.
• Add vegetables like spinach or cherry tomatoes to make it more colorful and nutritious.

Variations for This Recipe

• Vegetarian: Keep the recipe as-is or add roasted vegetables.
• Protein Boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or sausage.
• Vegan: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream and vegan Parmesan.
• Nutty Twist: Top with toasted pine nuts for extra texture.
• Spicy: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as cream-based sauces may separate when thawed. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of cream or milk.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling gnocchi
• Large skillet or sauté pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cheese grater

FAQ

Q1: Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
A: Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time.

Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: You can prepare gnocchi and sauce separately and combine when ready to serve.

Q3: Can I use jarred pesto?
A: Yes, jarred pesto works fine, but fresh homemade pesto enhances flavor.

Q4: Can I make it gluten-free?
A: Use gluten-free gnocchi for a completely gluten-free version.

Q5: How do I prevent the sauce from breaking?
A: Keep the heat medium-low and stir constantly when adding cream and cheese.

Conclusion

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Parmesan Cheese is a quick, flavorful, and comforting dish that brings the best of Italian cuisine to your table. Soft gnocchi coated in a rich, creamy pesto sauce, paired with fresh Parmesan and optional vegetables, makes this dish satisfying and elegant.

It’s perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or a cozy meal at home. Easy to make yet impressive in presentation and flavor, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for gnocchi lovers and Italian food enthusiasts alike.