Introduction

Delicate, pillowy gnocchi meets a rich, creamy pesto and spinach sauce in this indulgent yet fresh dish. Gnocchi with Pesto and Spinach in Cream Sauce combines tender potato gnocchi with vibrant, herbaceous basil pesto, fresh spinach, and a luscious cream sauce that coats every bite. The result is a comforting, flavorful, and visually stunning meal that’s perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

This recipe celebrates Italian-inspired comfort food with a fresh twist. The gnocchi provides a soft, satisfying base while the pesto delivers bold, aromatic flavor, and the spinach adds freshness and color. Creamy, rich, and perfectly balanced, this dish is both elegant and approachable—a true crowd-pleaser for anyone who loves indulgent pasta with a touch of green goodness.

Why I Love This Recipe

I love Gnocchi with Pesto and Spinach in Cream Sauce because it perfectly combines comfort and freshness in every bite. The soft, pillowy gnocchi absorbs the rich, creamy sauce beautifully, while the vibrant pesto adds aromatic, herbaceous flavor. Fresh spinach not only brings color and texture but also a light, earthy freshness that balances the indulgence of the cream sauce.

What makes this dish truly special is how elegant it tastes despite being simple to prepare. It’s a comforting, flavorful, and visually appealing meal that’s perfect for family dinners or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort.

Why This Dish is a Must-Try

Gnocchi with Pesto and Spinach in Cream Sauce is a must-try because it transforms simple ingredients into a luxurious, flavorful pasta dish. Here’s why:

1. Pillowy, Tender Gnocchi – Soft gnocchi provides the perfect texture to soak up the creamy sauce.
2. Fresh, Herbaceous Pesto – Adds bold, aromatic flavor that complements the richness of the cream.
3. Vibrant Spinach – Brings freshness, color, and a subtle earthy flavor to the dish.
4. Rich, Creamy Sauce – Lusciously coats every gnocchi for an indulgent experience.
5. Elegant Yet Easy – Feels restaurant-quality but is simple enough for weeknight dinners.

Trying this recipe guarantees a creamy, flavorful, and satisfying pasta dish that’s both comforting and impressive.

Recipe Details

• Preparation Time: 5 minutes
• Cooking Time: 12–15 minutes
• Total Time: 17–20 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~480 per serving

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi & Sauce

• 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ½ cup chicken broth or vegetable broth
• ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• Extra Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves (optional)

Step-by-Step Preparation Method

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions (usually 2–3 minutes, or until they float to the surface).
3. Drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

1. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine.
4. Let the mixture simmer gently for 2–3 minutes to slightly thicken.

Step 3: Add Pesto and Spinach

1. Stir in pesto until fully incorporated into the sauce.
2. Add spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes, until just wilted.

Step 4: Combine with Gnocchi

1. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet.
2. Toss gently until the gnocchi is coated in the sauce.
3. Stir in Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.

How to Serve

• Serve immediately while warm.
• Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
• Pair with garlic bread or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

Additional Recipe Tips & Variations

• Protein boost: Add grilled chicken, shrimp, or Italian sausage.
• Extra veggies: Toss in sun-dried tomatoes, roasted red peppers, or mushrooms.
• Light version: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
• Nut-free pesto: Use a pesto made without pine nuts if you have allergies.

Freezing & Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate and the gnocchi can become mushy.
• Reheating Tip: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to restore the sauce’s texture.

Special Equipment Needed

• Large pot for boiling gnocchi
• Large skillet for sauce
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula for stirring

FAQ

Q: Can I use homemade gnocchi?
Yes, homemade gnocchi works beautifully in this dish just be extra gentle when tossing in the sauce.

Q: Can I make this without cream?
You can substitute with milk or a plant-based cream alternative, but the sauce will be lighter.

Q: Is this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, if you use vegetable broth and ensure your Parmesan is vegetarian-friendly.

Q: Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can make the sauce a few hours ahead. Reheat and toss with freshly cooked gnocchi just before serving.

Conclusion

Gnocchi with Pesto and Spinach in Cream Sauce is the ultimate comfort food with a fresh, vibrant twist. It’s quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor, making it perfect for both busy weeknights and special occasions. Each bite delivers creamy indulgence with the bright, herby notes of pesto and the subtle freshness of spinach. Once you try it, you’ll want to add it to your regular recipe rotation.