Creme de la Comfort: Creamy Pesto Spinach Gnocchi Bake 🥔🌿🧀
1. Introduction
If you’re searching for a hearty yet elegant dish, look no further than this gnocchi bake. Combining soft, pillowy gnocchi with a luscious pesto sauce and fresh spinach, this creamy pesto gnocchi casserole offers a delightful texture and vibrant flavors. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this spinach gnocchi casserole is sure to become a family favorite. It’s easy to prepare, rich in flavor, and adaptable to your dietary needs.
2. Ingredients for the Creamy Pesto Spinach Gnocchi Bake
- 1 package of store-bought or homemade gnocchi (about 16 oz)
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup heavy cream or coconut cream for dairy-free option
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
3. How to Make the Creamy Pesto Gnocchi Bake
Preparation of the Ingredients
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until just tender, then drain and set aside. Meanwhile, in a large skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Toss in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
Creating the Creamy Pesto Mixture
In a mixing bowl, combine the basil pesto with the heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix well until smooth. Fold in the sautéed spinach and garlic mixture. This creates the perfect sauce for your spinach gnocchi casserole.
Assembling the Gnocchi Bake
Add the cooked gnocchi to the pesto and spinach mixture, gently tossing to coat evenly. Transfer everything to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and additional Parmesan cheese evenly on top. For an extra cheesy crust, you can add more cheese or breadcrumbs if desired.
Baking Instructions
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese melts and turns golden brown. For a crispy top, switch to broil for the last 2-3 minutes, watching carefully to prevent burning.
4. Storage Tips for Leftovers
Leftover creamy pesto gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave on high for 1-2 minutes or warm in a skillet over low heat until heated through. For best results, add a splash of milk or broth to refresh the sauce and maintain its creaminess.
5. Serving Suggestions
This gnocchi bake pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. You can also add grilled chicken or shrimp for extra protein. For a complete meal, consider serving with a slice of crusty bread or a side of garlic bread. Want to elevate your side dish game? Check out this holiday no-bake cookie lasagna.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this gnocchi bake dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk, and use dairy-free cheese options. The flavor remains rich and satisfying.
How long does it take to prepare this spinach gnocchi casserole?
From start to finish, it requires about 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
Can I freeze leftovers?
Absolutely! Pack leftovers in an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat thoroughly in the oven or microwave.
What other vegetables can I add for variety?
Feel free to add cherry tomatoes, roasted bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms to enrich the dish further.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this gnocchi bake
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for making crispy toppings or reheating leftovers with ease, this versatile tool streamlines your kitchen tasks to elevate your cooking experience.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensure even cooking and easy cleanup with this high-quality cookware set — ideal for sautéing spinach and garlic.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer: A multi-function appliance that can help you cook toppings or prepare side dishes alongside your gnocchi bake.
8. Conclusion
Now that you know how to make this delicious creamy pesto spinach gnocchi bake, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This comforting and flavorful gnocchi bake combines the richness of pesto with fresh spinach and melty cheese, making it an irresistible addition to your dinner rotation. Whether for a quick weekday meal or a weekend gathering, this spinach gnocchi casserole will impress everyone at the table.
9. Final Thoughts
Experiment with different vegetables or cheeses to customize your gnocchi bake according to your taste. For more inspiring recipes, explore other delicious options on our site, like the easy chicken pot pie casserole or the creamy broccoli potato soup in crockpot. Happy cooking!
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Creamy Pesto Spinach Gnocchi Bake
Creamy Pesto & Spinach Gnocchi Bake is an easy-to-make, cheesy dish combining tender gnocchi with fresh spinach and flavorful pesto, baked to perfection.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 2 packs (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Cook gnocchi according to package instructions, drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat, add spinach, and cook until wilted.
- In a bowl, toss cooked gnocchi with pesto and sautéed spinach.
- Transfer to a greased baking dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
Notes
- Can substitute with gluten-free gnocchi for a gluten-free version.
- Add cherry tomatoes for extra freshness.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Method: Bake
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 45mg