Creamy Pesto Gnocchi Bake

Nothing beats a comforting, indulgent meal that combines rich flavors and a satisfying texture, and that's exactly what you get with a Creamy Pesto Gnocchi Bake. This dish is a delightful fusion of soft, pillowy gnocchi enveloped in a luscious creamy pesto sauce, creating a mouthwatering experience that is perfect for family dinners, gatherings with friends, or cozy nights in. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its deliciousness but also in its versatility and ease of preparation. Whether you choose to use store-bought gnocchi for a quick weeknight dinner or decide to make your own from scratch, this dish accommodates both paths with grace.

Indulge in the ultimate comfort food with this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi Bake, a dish that combines pillowy gnocchi in a rich, creamy pesto sauce. Perfect for family dinners or cozy gatherings, this recipe is easy to make, whether you choose store-bought or homemade gnocchi. With a golden, cheesy topping and a blend of vibrant flavors, it’s guaranteed to impress. Customize it with your favorite add-ins for a personalized twist on this delicious classic that everyone will love.

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Ingredients

1 pound (450g) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

1 cup (240ml) heavy cream

1 cup (100g) basil pesto

1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved

1 cup (100g) mozzarella cheese, shredded

½ cup (50g) parmesan cheese, grated

2 cloves garlic, minced

1 teaspoon olive oil

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Gnocchi: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface, usually about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Make the Creamy Sauce: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.

Combine with Pesto: Stir in the basil pesto and mix until well combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes until slightly thickened.

Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, halved cherry tomatoes, and creamy pesto sauce. Toss gently to coat everything evenly.

Assemble the Bake: Transfer the gnocchi mixture to a greased 9x13 inch (23x33 cm) baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese evenly over the top.

Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Serve: Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy your creamy, cheesy delight!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings:

30 minutes | 55 minutes | 4-6 servings