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When it comes to comfort food, few dishes deliver as much satisfaction as a creamy pasta. One-Pot Creamy Pesto Gnocchi is the perfect embodiment of this concept, offering a delightful combination of rich flavors and textures that make it a standout option for any meal. The creamy sauce, enhanced by the aromatic basil pesto, pairs beautifully with tender gnocchi, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, creating a dish that is not only indulgent but also nutritious.

One-Pot Creamy Pesto Gnocchi

Discover the perfect comfort food with this One-Pot Creamy Pesto Gnocchi recipe! Rich in flavor and easy to prepare, this dish brings together tender gnocchi, fresh spinach, and juicy cherry tomatoes, all enveloped in a creamy basil pesto sauce. Designed for busy weeknights, it requires only one pot for a hassle-free cooking experience and minimal cleanup. Elevate your meals with this indulgent yet nutritious dish that’s sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients
  

1 lb (450g) store-bought gnocchi

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

1 cup heavy cream

1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup vegetable broth

1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving

2 tablespoons olive oil

2 cloves garlic, minced

Salt and fresh black pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions
 

Sauté Aromatics: In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring frequently until fragrant and golden; avoid burning the garlic.

    Add Gnocchi: Carefully add the gnocchi to the pot, stirring to coat them thoroughly in the garlic oil. Sauté for about 2 minutes to infuse the flavors.

      Combine Liquids: Gradually pour in the vegetable broth and heavy cream, stirring well to ensure everything is evenly mixed.

        Add Pesto and Tomatoes: Incorporate the basil pesto along with the halved cherry tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, stirring occasionally to combine all flavors.

          Cook the Gnocchi: Allow the gnocchi to simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until they float to the surface and are tender. Stir frequently to prevent sticking to the bottom of the pot.

            Incorporate Spinach and Cheese: Once the gnocchi are cooked, lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Add the chopped spinach and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into a rich, creamy sauce.

              Season to Taste: Taste the dish and season it with salt and black pepper according to your personal preference.

                Serve: Turn off the heat and let the dish rest for a minute to thicken slightly. Serve hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves, if desired.

                  Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 20 minutes | 4 servings

                    - Presentation Tips: For an elegant touch, serve the gnocchi in shallow bowls, drizzle with a little olive oil, and scatter fresh basil leaves on top for a pop of color.