Name: Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 15 min
Cuisine: Italian-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 (12-ounce) package potato gnocchi; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ cup heavy cream; ¼ cup prepared basil pesto; 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese; Salt and black pepper, to taste; Optional: red pepper flakes and extra Parmesan for serving

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If you’re craving a cozy pasta night perfect for two, look no further than this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe. Pillowy potato gnocchi enrobed in a velvety, basil-scented sauce comes together quicker than you can imagine, yet feels so luxurious you’ll think you’re dining at your favorite little trattoria. Whether it’s a special dinner or a simple weeknight treat, this dish is pure comfort and vibrant flavor in every forkful.

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

With only a handful of ingredients, Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe really lets each element shine. Quality is key here: every item brings unique texture, aroma, or richness to the final dish, so reach for the good stuff if you can!

Potato gnocchi (1 12-ounce package): These fluffy dumplings are the backbone of this dish; look for refrigerated or shelf-stable gnocchi for convenience.
Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A drizzle adds savory depth and ensures the garlic sizzles instead of burns.
Garlic (2 cloves, minced): Freshly minced garlic instantly elevates the sauce, infusing it with warmth and a hint of spice.
Heavy cream (½ cup): This is the secret to that lush, silky sauce—taste the difference real cream makes!
Basil pesto (¼ cup, prepared): Store-bought or homemade, pesto brings a burst of herbal brightness and color.
Parmesan cheese (2 tablespoons, grated): Adds nuttiness and a savory bite that ties everything together.
Salt and black pepper (to taste): These finish the sauce, balancing all those creamy, cheesy notes.
Optional: red pepper flakes and extra Parmesan: For serving, a sprinkle of both adds a pop of heat and richness.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

Start by bringing a medium pot of salted water to a rolling boil—don’t skip the salt, it flavors the gnocchi from the inside out! Add the gnocchi and keep a close eye on them; they’re ready just as they float to the top, usually in about 2–3 minutes. Scoop them out gently and set aside. Cooking them gently ensures a perfectly tender bite every time.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

While the gnocchi is draining, heat olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic and sauté for just about 30 seconds—enough to catch that rich, appetizing aroma without letting it brown. This quick step lays a beautiful flavor foundation for your sauce.

Step 3: Make the Creamy Pesto Sauce

Pour in the heavy cream and let it gently bubble until it starts to thicken slightly. Lower the heat, add the pesto and Parmesan, and stir until everything is well combined, forming a creamy, vibrant sauce. Pause and savor the luscious color—the mix of bright basil green and creamy white is a feast for the eyes! Taste and season with salt and black pepper as you like.

Step 4: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Add your cooked gnocchi directly into the skillet. Toss gently to coat every piece in that gorgeous sauce. Let it all simmer together for another 1–2 minutes so the gnocchi soak up the flavors and the sauce clings perfectly.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Scoop the saucy gnocchi into two bowls and finish with extra Parmesan, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if you like a little heat, and serve immediately while everything is steaming hot and irresistibly fragrant.

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe

Garnishes

For the finishing touch, a shower of freshly grated Parmesan is a must—it melts right into the sauce for that deliciously cheesy pull. A pinch of red pepper flakes wakes up the basil notes and adds a subtle kick. If you have a few fresh basil leaves, scatter those on top for a burst of green and an herbaceous aroma that will impress anyone at your table.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich and comforting, so think light and crisp for sides. A simple arugula or mixed green salad with a lemony vinaigrette cuts through all that creaminess. Warm, crusty bread is always a hit for mopping up any extra sauce, and roasted cherry tomatoes or sautéed spinach make colorful, healthy additions.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe in pre-warmed bowls for a restaurant-style feel. Garnish each serving with a Parmesan crisp or nestle the gnocchi atop a swipe of extra pesto on the plate. For date-night vibes, light a candle, pour two glasses of crisp white wine, and let this fabulous Italian-inspired dish take center stage.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers (although with this recipe, that’s rare!), store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. The sauce will thicken as it sits but holds its flavor beautifully.

Freezing

Gnocchi doesn’t always love the freezer, especially once sauced, as the texture can change. However, if you do need to freeze, place cooled gnocchi and sauce in a single layer in a freezer-safe container for up to one month. Thaw in the fridge before reheating gently.

Reheating

To bring your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe back to creamy glory, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk if needed to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until just warmed through—be careful not to let it boil, as the sauce could separate.

FAQs

Can I use homemade gnocchi instead?

Absolutely! If you love making your own gnocchi, they’ll make this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe even more impressive (and delicious). Just be gentle when combining with the sauce, since homemade tends to be a bit more delicate.

What type Main Course

Both classic store-bought and homemade basil pesto will work wonders here. If you feel adventurous, try arugula or spinach pesto for a different twist. Just make sure your pesto is fresh and vibrant.

Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes! Swap in plant-based cream and your favorite vegan pesto, and replace the Parmesan with a vegan alternative or nutritional yeast for that signature cheesy finish.

Is it possible to lighten the recipe?

Certainly—use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce, and add a handful of baby spinach or chopped sun-dried tomatoes to sneak in some veggies without losing any flavor or creaminess.

How can I avoid mushy gnocchi?

The trick is not to overcook them—once the gnocchi float, they’re done! Handle them gently when tossing in the sauce so they stay pillowy and luscious as intended.

Final Thoughts

Whether you’re cooking for someone special or just treating yourself, the Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe is pure comfort, ready in a flash, and always a hit. You don’t need a lot of time—or even a lot of ingredients—to create something that feels truly celebratory. Give it a try, and don’t be surprised if this becomes a new favorite in your dinner rotation!

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe

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4.6 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 15 minutes
Yield: 2 servings 1x
Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Indulge in a delightful dinner for two with this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi recipe that combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a rich basil pesto cream sauce. Quick and easy to make, this dish is perfect for a cozy night in.

Ingredients

Scale

Potato Gnocchi:

1 (12-ounce) package potato gnocchi

Pesto Cream Sauce:

1 tablespoon olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
½ cup heavy cream
¼ cup prepared basil pesto
2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and black pepper, to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes and extra Parmesan for serving

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Instructions

Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a medium pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the top, about 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Make the Pesto Cream Sauce: In a medium skillet over medium heat, warm olive oil and sauté garlic for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Add pesto and Parmesan cheese, stirring until combined and creamy. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine and Serve: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss to coat in the sauce. Simmer for 1–2 minutes until everything is heated through and well coated. Serve hot with extra Parmesan and a pinch of red pepper flakes, if desired.