Creamy pesto gnocchi with sundried tomatoes is a quick and flavorful pasta dish. Soft gnocchi tossed in a rich pesto cream sauce makes a perfect weeknight dinner or comforting meal.

Ingredients

1 (16-ounce / 450g) package gnocchi
½ cup sundried tomatoes in oil, chopped
¾ cup (180ml) heavy cream (double cream in the UK)
4 tablespoons pesto
½ teaspoon salt
Optional: grated parmesan or vegetarian hard cheese for topping

Instructions

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the top.
Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a pan over medium heat, warm the oil from the sundried tomatoes.
Add the chopped sundried tomatoes and sear for about 1 minute to release their flavor.
Stir in the cream and simmer for 1 minute (do not boil).
Remove from heat and mix in the pesto. Season with salt.

Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce.
Toss gently until all gnocchi are coated in the creamy pesto sauce.

Serve

Serve warm, topped with grated parmesan or vegetarian hard cheese if desired.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Creamy pesto gnocchi is rich, comforting, and full of flavor. The combination of pesto, sundried tomatoes, and cream creates a luscious sauce that clings to each pillowy gnocchi, making it a quick and satisfying meal.

Tips

Do Not Overcook Gnocchi: They should be soft but not mushy.
Release Sundried Tomato Flavor: Searing briefly in their oil enhances the taste of the sauce.
Toss Gently: Helps prevent gnocchi from breaking apart while coating in sauce.

Variations and Substitutions

Pasta Alternative: Use gnocchi made from sweet potatoes or cauliflower for a healthier option.
Cream Substitute: Coconut cream or cashew cream can replace heavy cream for a dairy-free version.
Cheese: Swap parmesan for pecorino or a plant-based cheese alternative.
Add Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or peas can be stirred into the sauce for extra nutrition.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
The gnocchi and sauce are best served fresh, but leftovers can be stored in the fridge for up to 2 days and gently reheated.

Q: Can I freeze this dish?
It’s not recommended to freeze creamy gnocchi, as the texture may change when thawed.

Q: Can I use jarred pesto?
Yes, store-bought pesto works well if you don’t have homemade. Adjust quantity to taste.

Serving and Suggestions

Serve as a main course with a simple side salad.
Pair with garlic bread or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Garnish with extra pesto drizzle or fresh basil for added flavor and color.