When you’re craving a meal that’s elegant, soul-satisfying, and stunningly simple, look no further than this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe. Pillow-soft gnocchi soak up a lusciously creamy basil pesto sauce, all topped with a shower of Parmesan and a hint of heat if you like. It’s romantic, restaurant-worthy comfort food you can actually whip up on a busy weeknight, making it the perfect treat for date night in or just some well-deserved self-care at your dinner table.

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this dish is its simplicity—each ingredient has a vital role in creating that irresistible balance of flavors and textures. It’s proof that with just a handful of high-quality staples, you can craft an unforgettable Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe at home.

Potato gnocchi: These pillowy potato dumplings cook in minutes and absorb sauce beautifully.
Olive oil: A drizzle for sautéing the garlic and bringing out its mellow, aromatic flavor.
Heavy cream: Provides the rich, silky base for that luxurious sauce you’ll want to mop up with bread.
Prepared basil pesto: Use good-quality store-bought or homemade for a vibrant burst of herby flavor.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds salty, nutty depth and thickens your sauce to perfection.
Garlic (minced): One clove is all it takes to infuse the dish with classic Italian aroma.
Salt: Balances and lifts all the flavors in the sauce.
Black pepper: Just a touch wakes up the creaminess with gentle heat.
Baby spinach (optional): Wilt in fresh greens for extra color and a nutritional boost.
Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Sprinkle for a lively, zesty finish.
Extra Parmesan for topping: Because a little more cheese never hurt anyone!

How to Make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe

Step 1: Boil the Gnocchi

Fill a large pot with salted water and bring it to a boil. Add your potato gnocchi and cook according to the package directions, usually just 2 to 3 minutes until those little clouds float to the top. Don’t walk away—they cook fast! Once they’re ready, drain thoroughly and set them aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

In a medium skillet set over medium heat, add your olive oil. When it shimmers, toss in the minced garlic and let it sizzle for about 30 seconds—your kitchen will start to smell amazing! Pour in the heavy cream and let it come to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching.

Step 3: Blend in the Pesto and Cheese

Now for the magic: Stir in your prepared basil pesto, grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce bubble away for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring so all the flavors blend and the sauce thickens slightly to coat the back of a spoon. This is where the Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe really starts to come together.

Step 4: Toss Everything Together

Tip your cooked gnocchi into the skillet with the sauce, tossing gently to coat every piece. If you want to add a nutritious pop of green, stir in the baby spinach now and cook just until it wilts. The gnocchi will soak in all that creamy, herb-speckled goodness—yum!

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Plate the gnocchi hot, lavishing them with extra Parmesan and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Grab your fork—it’s time to dig into your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe masterpiece!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe

Garnishes

Finish your plate with a flourish: a generous dusting of grated Parmesan, a spark of red pepper flakes for gentle heat, and, if you’re feeling fancy, a few fresh basil leaves scattered on top. These touches make each bite of Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe feel extra special.

Side Dishes

This rich, creamy dish pairs beautifully with light sides—a crisp arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette, crusty garlic bread to soak up the sauce, or even some roasted cherry tomatoes. Balance is key to making your meal feel complete without overwhelming your taste buds.

Creative Ways to Present

For date night, serve the gnocchi in shallow pasta bowls with a twirl of pesto and extra cheese on each. Hosting friends? Spoon it into a large platter for sharing, or present in mini ramekins for individual servings. The vivid green sauce and pillows of gnocchi are naturally Instagram-worthy!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you’re lucky enough to have any leftover Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. The sauce stays creamy and the flavors actually deepen a bit overnight.

Freezing

Want to save a batch for later? Let the gnocchi cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 1 month. Just note that cream sauces can separate slightly after freezing, but it’s easily resolved with gentle reheating and an extra splash of cream or milk.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm the gnocchi and sauce in a skillet over low heat, stirring in a little milk or cream to bring back the luscious texture. A short stint in the microwave works too—just go low and slow to keep the sauce silky and prevent the gnocchi from getting rubbery.

FAQs

Can I use homemade pesto instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade pesto brings even more freshness and punchy basil flavor to the Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe. Use your favorite recipe or blend basil, pine nuts, Parmesan, garlic, and olive oil for a quick DIY version.

Are there dairy-free options for the cream and cheese?

Yes! You can substitute a plant-based cream (like cashew or coconut) and use vegan Parmesan to keep this dish completely dairy-free. The results are seriously delicious and every bit as creamy.

Can I add protein to make this a more filling meal?

Definitely. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or white beans mix in beautifully with the creamy pesto sauce. Just fold them in during the last minute of cooking, and you have a heartier Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe.

How can I make the dish a bit lighter?

Swap the heavy cream with half-and-half or a splash of milk for a lighter version. You can also add extra spinach or toss in peas, which adds freshness and a nutritional boost while trimming the richness.

What’s the best type Main Course

Look for shelf-stable potato gnocchi in the pasta aisle, which works perfectly here. If you have access to fresh or homemade gnocchi, even better! Just make sure you cook them briefly and handle them gently so they don’t break apart in the creamy sauce.

Final Thoughts

If ever there was a meal to make you fall in love with your own kitchen, it’s the Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe. It’s so quick, cozy, and bursting with fresh flavors that I promise you’ll want to make it again and again. Treat someone you love—or treat yourself—and enjoy every dreamy, creamy bite!

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two Recipe

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4.9 from 13 reviews

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

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Description

Indulge in a decadent yet easy-to-make dinner with this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two recipe. Pillowy potato gnocchi coated in a rich basil pesto cream sauce, finished with Parmesan and optional spinach for a burst of freshness.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

1 package (12 oz) potato gnocchi
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 cup heavy cream
1/3 cup prepared basil pesto
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 clove garlic (minced)
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon black pepper

Optional Ingredients:

1 cup baby spinach
crushed red pepper flakes (optional for garnish)
extra Parmesan for topping

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Instructions

Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi until they float, about 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Sauce: In a skillet over medium heat, sauté garlic in olive oil. Add cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in pesto, Parmesan, salt, and pepper. Simmer until slightly thickened.
Combine and Serve: Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet, toss to coat. Stir in spinach if desired, cook until wilted. Serve hot, topped with extra Parmesan and red pepper flakes.