Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels like a hug in a bowl, you’ve found it! This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is not only super easy to whip up but also packed with flavor. In just 30 minutes, you can have this comforting dish on the table, making it perfect for those busy weeknights or a cozy family gathering. The combination of creamy gouda cheese, tender gnocchi, and vibrant veggies will leave everyone asking for seconds!

What makes this recipe truly special is its versatility. You can enjoy it as a satisfying main course or pair it with a fresh salad for a complete meal. Trust me, once you make this creamy delight, it will become one of your go-to favorites!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, it’s perfect for those nights when time is short.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike love the creamy texture and delightful flavors.
• Vegetable-packed: Spinach and artichokes add nutrition without sacrificing taste.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare the gnocchi ahead of time and assemble when you’re ready to eat!
• Comfort food appeal: This dish offers that warm, cozy feeling we all crave.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s where the magic happens! This recipe uses simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry or fridge. Let’s gather everything together for our Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes.

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 the best things about this recipe is how flexible it is! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have at home or your taste preferences.

• Add protein: Toss in some cooked chicken, shrimp, or chickpeas for an extra boost.
• Change the greens: Swap spinach for kale or arugula if you prefer something different.
• Use different cheese: Try mozzarella or cheddar instead of gouda for a unique twist.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes or fresh herbs to give your dish an extra kick!

How to Make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by preheating your oven to 180°C (356°F). In a cast-iron skillet or stainless steel pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté until they are soft, fragrant, and translucent—this step brings out their natural sweetness. Stir in the dried oregano and basil, letting them cook together for another minute to release their wonderful aromas.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Now it’s time to add the gnocchi! If your pan seems a bit dry, feel free to drizzle in more olive oil. Cook the gnocchi while stirring occasionally until they turn lightly golden—this should take about 3-5 minutes. Golden-brown gnocchi adds a lovely texture and flavor to our dish.

Step 3: Deglaze the Pan

Next, it’s time to deglaze! Pour in the white grape juice or water, using a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pan. These bits are full of flavor! After deglazing, add in your cream and water (or vegetable stock), letting everything simmer together for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi is fully cooked through.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the basil pesto along with your baby spinach and drained artichokes. As you mix everything together, you’ll see the spinach wilt from the heat—a beautiful sight! Once combined, sprinkle shredded gouda cheese on top before placing your skillet into the oven.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake your creamy masterpiece for 15-20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden crust on top—trust me; this is when it gets really exciting!

Step 6: Serve It Up

Once out of the oven, serve directly from the pan while it’s hot! Gather around with loved ones and enjoy this comforting bowl of Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes together.

Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Creating the perfect Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is all about the little details! Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out beautifully every time:

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and quality pesto not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant color to your dish, making it more appealing.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: When cooking the gnocchi, make sure there’s enough space in the pan. This allows them to brown evenly, creating a lovely texture that adds depth to your meal.
• Adjust creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can use half cream and half vegetable stock. This will still provide creaminess while cutting back on calories.
• Experiment with cheese: While gouda is delicious, feel free to experiment with other cheeses like mozzarella or fontina for different flavor profiles. Each cheese brings its unique taste and texture.
• Make it ahead: This dish can be prepared in advance and stored in the fridge. Just reheat it gently before serving. It’s perfect for meal prep or when you’re expecting guests!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Serving this creamy delight can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas to make your presentation shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: A few whole leaves on top add a burst of freshness and color.
• Grated parmesan alternative: For those who enjoy a cheesy finish without dairy, sprinkle some grated plant-based cheese on top before serving for added flavor.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, crusty garlic bread complements the creamy sauce perfectly. Use vegan butter mixed with garlic powder and herbs for a delicious spread.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add variety and nutrition. The caramelized flavors pair wonderfully with the creamy pesto.
• Steamed broccoli or green beans: Lightly steamed greens keep things healthy and vibrant on your plate while adding an extra crunch.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes—it’s sure to become a favorite in your household!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is not only quick to prepare, but it also makes for a fantastic meal prep option! Whether you’re looking to save time on busy weeknights or want to keep delicious leftovers on hand, this dish is versatile and easy to store.

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftover gnocchi in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate within two hours of cooking.
• Consume within 3-4 days for the best flavor and quality.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for reference.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or vegetable stock until warmed through.
• Alternatively, use the microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally, until heated evenly.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes that may help you out!

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly in this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking times.

What can I substitute for gouda cheese?

If gouda isn’t available, you can use other melty cheeses like mozzarella or fontina in your Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes. They’ll provide a similar creamy texture!

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Feel free to incorporate your favorite veggies. Zucchini, bell peppers, or even cherry tomatoes would complement this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi beautifully.

How do I make this dish vegan?

To make it vegan, swap the cream for coconut milk or cashew cream and use a plant-based cheese alternative. You can also replace the pesto with a vegan version!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes as delightful as I do! It’s not only a comforting dish filled with wonderful flavors but also perfect for any occasion—whether it’s a cozy family dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to share your experience in the comments below. Happy cooking!