This Gnocchi with Pesto Sauce is the perfect balance of indulgence and simplicity, making it a go-to for busy weeknights and special occasions. It’s an easy dinner recipe that delivers restaurant-quality flavor without the hassle. The combination of creamy pesto sauce, tender potato gnocchi, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes creates a rich and comforting dish that the whole family will love. Whether you’re craving Italian comfort food or want a quick gnocchi dinner, this one-pan recipe will surely become a favorite!
Don't get a slice of Fresh Baked Rosemary bread for dipping!
Jump to:
Why You'll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a quick gnocchi dinner that feels like a restaurant-quality dish but comes together in minutes, this Gnocchi with Pesto Sauce is the answer. Creamy, rich, and bursting with fresh basil flavor, this recipe is an absolute weeknight winner. Toss in some sun-dried tomatoes, a splash of white wine, and a luscious creamy pesto sauce, and you’ve got a one-pan gnocchi recipe that will impress anyone at the table.
Looking for other great pasta dishes? Check out this Rigatoni D Copycat Recipe!
Ingredients
Gnocchi – These soft, pillowy potato dumplings soak up all the creamy pesto goodness, making each bite rich and satisfying.
Heavy Cream – Adds a velvety texture to the sauce, creating that signature creamy finish. For another creamy Italian dish, take a look at this Creamy Crab Linguine!
Sun-Dried Tomatoes – A tangy, slightly sweet flavor that balances the sauce's richness.
Basil Pesto – The star of the dish! Packed with fresh basil, garlic, and parmesan, it gives the gnocchi its bold, herbaceous flavor.
Dry White Wine – Enhances the sauce with acidity, adding depth to the overall taste.
Fresh Minced Garlic – Brings out a savory, aromatic base that beautifully ties all the flavors together.
See the recipe card below for full information on ingredients and quantities.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Add olive oil and minced garlic to a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until fragrant, and then add the sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for about another three minutes.
Next, Pour in the dry white wine of your choice and simmer for 5-6 minutes.
Step 2: Add the basil pesto, stirring to combine thoroughly. Pour in the heavy cream, stir it, and ensure it’s thoroughly mixed.
Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and simmer.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat and pan-fry the gnocchi for about 10 minutes or until browned on at least two sides.
Step 4: Once the skillet gnocchi has browned up. Pour the creamy basil sauce into the skillet, stir, reduce heat, and let it thicken until you’ve reached your desired consistency.
Expert Tips
Want a protein boost? Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta.
No white wine? Swap it for chicken broth, or just omit it.
Make it extra cheesy? Stir in some freshly grated Parmesan for even more richness.
This creamy pesto gnocchi recipe is the ultimate weeknight dinner idea that comes together in no time. It’s a comforting yet elevated dish that belongs in your easy gnocchi recipe collection. If you're looking for a great appetizer to make this an even fancier meal, try this Escargot Recipe!
Recipe FAQs
Absolutely! Store-bought potato gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe and keeps it quick and easy. However, fresh gnocchi will make the dish even more pillowy and delicate if you want to go the homemade route.
A classic basil pesto is ideal for this recipe, but feel free to experiment! Try sun-dried tomato pesto for a twist or spinach pesto for a milder flavor. If using store-bought pesto, go for a high-quality brand with fresh ingredients.
Yes! You can swap the heavy cream for half-and-half, full-fat coconut milk or even a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream if you prefer a lighter option.
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, or Chardonnay works best. If you don’t have wine on hand, you can substitute chicken broth or vegetable broth for a similar depth of flavor.
Definitely! This gnocchi dish is satisfying on its own, but if you want extra protein, try adding grilled chicken, shrimp, crispy pancetta, or Italian sausage.
This rich and flavorful dish pairs beautifully with a light side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or zucchini.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the gnocchi in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to bring back the creamy texture.
More Recipes You'll Love
If you made this Gnocchi with Pesto Sauce recipe or any other of my recipes, please leave a Star Rating and let me know your thoughts in the comments below.
Don't forget to tag @chickenfriedkitchen on Instagram, Subscribe on YouTube, and Follow on Pinterest and Facebook! I'll see you there!
📖 Recipe
Gnocchi with Pesto Sauce
Ingredients
- 2 tablespoon Olive Oil
- 1 tablespoon Fresh Minced Garlic
- ¼ Cup Sundried Tomatoes
- ¼ Cup Dry White Wine
- 8 Oz Basil Pesto Classico
- 1 Cup Heavy Cream
- 12 Oz Skillet Gnocchi Giovanni Rana
Instructions
- Add olive oil and minced garlic to a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes or until fragrant, and then add the sun-dried tomatoes, sautéing for about another three minutes.
- Next, Pour in the dry white wine of your choice and simmer for 5-6 minutes.
- Add the basil pesto, stirring to combine thoroughly. Pour in the heavy cream, stir it, and ensure it’s thoroughly mixed.
- Cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and simmer.
- Heat olive oil in a cast iron skillet over high heat and pan-fry the gnocchi for about 10 minutes or until browned on at least two sides.
- Once the skillet gnocchi has browned up. Pour the creamy basil sauce into the skillet, stir, reduce heat, and let it thicken until you’ve reached your desired consistency.
- Served topped with a sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Video
Notes
- Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta.
- If you don't have any wine on hand, swap it for chicken broth or omit it.
- Stir in some freshly grated Parmesan for even more richness.
- Swap out the olive oil for butter for an even more decadent flavor.
Leave a Reply