Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a cozy and comforting dish that’s as quick as it is delicious, you’ve come to the right place! Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is one of those recipes that never fails to impress. It’s creamy, flavorful, and packed with wholesome ingredients. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something special without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this dish so special is its delightful combination of textures and flavors. The tender gnocchi pairs beautifully with the fresh spinach and tangy artichokes, all enveloped in a rich, creamy sauce infused with basil pesto. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to bring smiles all around!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for weeknight dinners.
• Family-friendly: With its creamy goodness, even picky eaters will enjoy every bite.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the ingredients in advance for a seamless cooking experience.
• Comfort food delight: The combination of gnocchi and cheese creates a warm, cozy meal that’s hard to resist.
• Versatile: Customize it easily to suit your taste preferences or what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering wholesome ingredients is the first step to making this delightful dish! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes:

For the Dish

• 500 g gnocchi
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ tbsp dried oregano
• ½ tbsp dried basil
• 150 ml white grape juice (or water)
• 250 ml cream
• 250 ml water (or vegetable stock)
• 125 g baby spinach
• 280 g jar marinated artichokes (drained)
• 4 tbsp basil pesto
• 200 g gouda or similar cheese (grated)

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal taste preferences.

• Add extra veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or bell peppers for added color and nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: If gouda isn’t your favorite, try mozzarella or even a dairy-free alternative!
• Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick if you enjoy some heat.
• Swap the protein: For a heartier meal, include cooked chicken or chickpeas for added protein.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F). In a cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the diced onion and minced garlic until they are soft, fragrant, and translucent. This step is key as it builds a flavorful base for your sauce!

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

If needed, add a little more olive oil before adding the gnocchi into the pan. Cook them while stirring occasionally until they turn lightly golden—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Browning adds depth to their flavor and makes them irresistibly tasty!

Step 3: Deglaze and Simmer

Next, deglaze your pan using white grape juice or water. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom; they add amazing flavor! Then pour in the cream and water (or vegetable stock), allowing everything to simmer together for about five minutes until the gnocchi are cooked through.

Step 4: Combine It All Together

Now it’s time to stir in that vibrant basil pesto along with baby spinach and marinated artichokes. The heat will quickly wilt the spinach while enhancing all those great flavors. Finally, sprinkle shredded gouda over top to create that luscious cheesy layer we all love!

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Transfer your skillet directly into the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbling with golden edges. This final step creates an irresistible crust that makes this dish unforgettable.

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy

Serve this comforting Creamy Pesto Gnocchi directly from the pan—your friends and family will appreciate not only its taste but also its inviting presentation! Enjoy every creamy bite!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Making this creamy pesto gnocchi is a delightful experience, and a few handy tips can elevate your dish even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Whenever possible, opt for fresh baby spinach and high-quality pesto. Fresh ingredients enhance the overall flavor and nutritional value of your meal.

• Watch the gnocchi closely: Gnocchi cooks quickly! Keep an eye on them while sautéing to prevent them from becoming too crispy or burnt. A light golden color is perfect for that delightful texture.

• Experiment with cheese: While gouda is delicious, feel free to try other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for a different flavor profile. Each cheese brings its unique creaminess to the dish.

• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter dish, you can reduce the cream slightly and add more vegetable stock instead. This keeps the dish flavorful without being overly rich.

• Customize with veggies: This recipe is versatile! Consider adding seasonal vegetables like cherry tomatoes or zucchini for added nutrition and color.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Serving this creamy pesto gnocchi is just as enjoyable as making it! With a few simple presentations, you can make your meal look as good as it tastes.

Garnishes

• Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan adds a salty kick that complements the richness of the dish beautifully.
• Chopped fresh basil: A handful of chopped basil not only enhances flavor but also adds a vibrant green touch that looks gorgeous against the creamy sauce.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, a dash of crushed red pepper flakes will add warmth without overwhelming the dish.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread provides a crunchy texture that contrasts nicely with the creamy gnocchi. Plus, it’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce!

• Simple green salad: A refreshing side salad made of mixed greens, cucumber, and cherry tomatoes tossed in a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the gnocchi perfectly.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color, nutrition, and a delightful caramelized flavor that complements the pasta wonderfully.

• Steamed broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli not only adds nutrition but also brings an appealing crunch to each bite alongside your creamy gnocchi.

Enjoy crafting this delicious meal! It’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes recipe is fantastic for meal prep! Not only does it come together quickly, but it also stores well, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the gnocchi completely before freezing.
• Place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce as needed.
• Heat until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful dish? Here are some common inquiries!

Can I make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes without cheese?

Absolutely! You can skip the cheese or use a plant-based alternative to keep it dairy-free while still enjoying that creamy texture.

How do I store Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, freeze portions for up to 2 months!

What can I serve with Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

This dish pairs well with a simple green salad or crusty bread. You could also enjoy it alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in your favorite vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

I hope you get as much joy from making and sharing this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes as I do! It’s a comforting, flavorful dish that brings together wholesome ingredients in just 30 minutes. Enjoy it on busy weeknights or whenever you crave something delicious. Happy cooking!