Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you’ve found it! This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is a favorite in my home. It’s not only quick to whip up—taking just 30 minutes—but it also combines so many delightful flavors. The fresh baby spinach and tangy marinated artichokes perfectly complement the rich gouda cheese, making every bite a little piece of heaven.

This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even when you just want to treat yourself to something special. Trust me, once you try this creamy delight, it will become a go-to dish in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the creamy texture and cheesy goodness. It’s a meal everyone will enjoy!
• Make-ahead convenience: You can prepare the gnocchi and sauce ahead of time for an easy dinner option throughout the week.
• Delicious flavor: The combination of pesto, spinach, and artichokes creates a taste sensation that is both refreshing and comforting.
• Wholesome ingredients: With simple and fresh ingredients, you can feel great about serving this meal to your loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to create this delightful dish! Each one plays a vital role in bringing out the flavors of our creamy pesto gnocchi.

For the Gnocchi Dish

• 500 g gnocchi
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 yellow onion (diced)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• ½ tbsp dried oregano
• ½ tbsp dried basil
• 150 ml white grape juice (or water)
• 250 ml cream
• 250 ml water (or vegetable stock)
• 125 g baby spinach
• 280 g jar marinated artichokes (drained)
• 4 tbsp basil pesto
• 200 g gouda or similar cheese (grated)

Variations

One of my favorite things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the cheese: If gouda isn’t your favorite, try using mozzarella or even a vegan cheese alternative for a different flavor profile.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some cherry tomatoes or roasted bell peppers for an extra burst of color and nutrients.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes while sautéing the onions and garlic.
• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter version without sacrificing too much creaminess.

How to Make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Before we dive into cooking, let’s get that oven preheated to 180°C (356°F). This way, we’ll be ready to bake our cheesy masterpiece right after we finish cooking!

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

In a cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan over medium heat, add olive oil. Once heated, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they become soft and translucent—this step brings out their sweetness and adds depth to our dish. After about 4-5 minutes, mix in dried oregano and basil. Let these herbs cook for another minute or two until fragrant!

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Now it’s time for our star ingredient! If your skillet needs more oil, add a splash before tossing in the gnocchi. Cook them while gently stirring occasionally until they turn lightly golden—this should take around 3-5 minutes. The slight crispness adds texture to our creamy dish!

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

To bring all those delicious flavors together, deglaze your pan with white grape juice or water. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any browned bits stuck at the bottom; they hold so much flavor! Once deglazed, add cream and water (or vegetable stock), allowing everything to simmer for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi are cooked through.

Step 5: Combine Everything

Now comes the fun part! Stir in your basil pesto along with baby spinach and marinated artichokes. The heat from the gnocchi will wilt the spinach beautifully. Finally, sprinkle shredded gouda on top—this is where magic happens! Bake for 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts into gooey perfection.

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once it’s golden brown on top and bubbling with deliciousness, serve directly from the pan! This makes for an inviting presentation at your dinner table.

Enjoy every creamy bite of this delightful dish with family or friends—it’s definitely going to be a hit!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Cooking should be a joyful experience, so here are some pro tips to ensure your creamy pesto gnocchi turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh baby spinach and high-quality marinated artichokes will enhance the overall flavor of your dish, making it more vibrant and delicious.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Keep an eye on the gnocchi while cooking; they only need a few minutes to reach that perfect fluffy texture. Overcooking can make them mushy.

• Customize the cheese: If gouda isn’t your favorite, feel free to experiment with other melting cheeses like mozzarella or fontina. Each will give a unique flavor profile.

• Add protein: For an extra boost of nutrition, consider adding cooked chicken or chickpeas. They blend well with the creamy sauce while enhancing the meal’s heartiness.

• Make it ahead: This dish holds up well in the fridge for meal prep. Just store it in an airtight container after baking, and reheat when ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Serving this creamy pesto gnocchi can be just as fun as making it! With a few simple touches, you can transform your meal into a delightful presentation.

Garnishes

• Chopped fresh basil: Sprinkling some freshly chopped basil on top adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens each bite.
• Grated parmesan: A light dusting of parmesan cheese before serving can enhance the dish’s richness and provide a hint of nutty flavor.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding crushed red pepper flakes can elevate the dish and add an exciting kick.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A classic pairing! The crispy texture and buttery garlic flavor make for perfect dipping in the creamy sauce.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette dressing balances out the richness of the gnocchi. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and avocados for added texture.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus complement the flavors in this dish beautifully. Their caramelized sweetness adds another layer to your meal.
• Steamed broccoli: Simple yet effective! Broccoli brings crunchiness and nutrients that round out this comforting dish while providing a lovely color contrast on your plate.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’re all set to create a delightful dining experience around your creamy pesto gnocchi with spinach and artichokes! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy pesto gnocchi dish is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance, store it, and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to keep your leftovers fresh and tasty.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the gnocchi to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer the dish to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• When ready to eat, simply reheat as instructed below.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion out individual servings into freezer-safe containers.
• Seal tightly to prevent freezer burn.
• Freeze for up to 2 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, heat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through—add a splash of water or cream to loosen if needed.
• If frozen, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or microwave on low power until heated through.
• Ensure that the dish is heated thoroughly before serving.

FAQs

Have questions about this creamy pesto gnocchi recipe? Here are some common queries!

Can I use other types of cheese in my Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

Absolutely! While gouda adds a lovely flavor, you can substitute with mozzarella, cheddar, or even a dairy-free alternative if needed. Just ensure it melts well!

What can I serve with Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes?

This dish is quite filling on its own! However, you might pair it with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. The freshness of salad complements the creaminess perfectly.

How long does Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes last in the fridge?

Stored properly in an airtight container, it will last for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Can I use fresh spinach instead of baby spinach?

Yes! Fresh spinach works beautifully in this recipe. Just be sure to chop it into smaller pieces so it wilts evenly.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarian diets?

Yes! This creamy pesto gnocchi is entirely vegetarian-friendly and packed with flavors!

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited about making this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes as I am! It’s such a versatile dish that brings warmth and comfort to any dinner table. Whether you’re whipping it up for a family meal or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, I know you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking!