Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that feels like a warm hug, you’ve come to the right place! This Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavors that will make your taste buds dance. It’s one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or even when I want to impress guests without spending hours in the kitchen.

What I love most about this dish is how effortlessly it combines fresh ingredients into something truly comforting. The creamy sauce, vibrant spinach, and tangy artichokes create a beautiful harmony that’s hard to resist. Plus, it comes together in just 30 minutes—perfect for those evenings when time is short but good food is a must!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this recipe is perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: It’s creamy, cheesy, and packed with flavors that everyone will love—even picky eaters!
• Make-Ahead Convenience: You can prepare the gnocchi ahead of time and simply bake when you’re ready to eat.
• Versatile Ingredients: Use what’s on hand! Feel free to swap out vegetables based on what you enjoy or have available.
• Satisfying Comfort Food: This dish has all the elements of cozy comfort food—a creamy sauce and cheesy goodness that warms the soul.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your pantry. Let’s gather everything you need to whip up this delectable meal!

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 Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes is its flexibility! You can easily customize it to suit your preferences or dietary needs.

• Swap the greens: If spinach isn’t your favorite, try kale or Swiss chard for a different twist.
• Change up the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella or feta for unique flavor profiles.
• Add protein: Toss in some cooked chicken or chickpeas for an extra protein boost.
• Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of cream for a lighter version without losing creaminess.

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, sautéing until they become soft and fragrant. This step is key; cooking them until translucent brings out their natural sweetness and builds a flavorful base for your dish.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Once your onions are translucent, it’s time to add the gnocchi. If needed, drizzle in a bit more olive oil. Stir occasionally as they cook until they achieve a lovely golden color—about 3-5 minutes. This process adds texture and enhances their flavor.

Step 3: Create the Sauce

Next, deglaze your pan by adding white grape juice or water. Use a wooden spoon or spatula to scrape up any delicious browned bits stuck to the bottom—this adds depth to your sauce. Then pour in the cream and either water or vegetable stock. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes until everything melds beautifully together.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time for magic! Stir in the basil pesto, baby spinach, and drained marinated artichokes. The heat will wilt the spinach perfectly while infusing all those flavors together. Finally, sprinkle shredded gouda cheese on top before transferring your skillet into the oven.

Step 5: Bake Until Golden

Bake your creamy pesto gnocchi for about 15-20 minutes until the cheese melts into bubbly perfection and turns golden brown on top. The aroma wafting through your kitchen at this point will have everyone gathering around!

Step 6: Serve with Love

When it’s ready, serve directly from the pan! There’s something special about sharing food straight from one vessel—it creates warmth and connection. Enjoy every comforting bite of this delightful dish!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Creating a delightful dish like creamy pesto gnocchi is all about the little details, so here are some handy tips to ensure your meal turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh baby spinach and good-quality marinated artichokes enhance the flavors significantly, making your dish vibrant and delicious.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi until just tender keeps them light and fluffy. Overcooking can result in a gummy texture that detracts from the overall experience.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Since different brands of pesto can vary in flavor intensity, taste as you go! This allows you to adjust the seasoning and achieve the perfect balance for your palate.

• Mix cheeses for depth: While gouda adds a rich creaminess, combining it with another cheese like parmesan can add an extra layer of flavor to your dish.

• Experiment with spices: If you want to spice things up, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a squeeze of lemon juice just before serving to brighten the flavors!

How to Serve Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes

Presenting your creamy pesto gnocchi can turn an ordinary dinner into a special occasion. Here are some creative ideas on how to serve this comforting dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: Sprinkle torn basil leaves on top for a burst of freshness that complements the pesto beautifully.
• Grated cheese: A light dusting of extra gouda or parmesan just before serving adds an inviting touch while enhancing the creaminess.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any creamy sauce left on your plate. It’s a classic pairing that never disappoints!

• Mixed green salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the rich gnocchi.

• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers add color and nutrition while their caramelized sweetness pairs wonderfully with the savory gnocchi.

• Steamed asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus adds a touch of elegance and crunch to your meal. The slight bitterness of asparagus balances out the richness of the dish beautifully.

Feel free to mix and match these garnishes and sides based on what you have on hand or what suits your mood! Enjoy your cooking adventure!

Make Ahead and Storage

This creamy pesto gnocchi is an excellent option for meal prep! You can easily whip it up in advance and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to manage your leftovers and ensure the best quality.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Portion out the gnocchi into freezer-safe containers.
• Ensure there is some space at the top of the container for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months. Label with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, reheat in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of water or cream if needed.
• For frozen portions, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating, or place directly in a skillet with a little water or cream on low heat until heated thoroughly.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this recipe, you’re in the right place! Here are some common queries.

Can I make Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes without cheese?

Absolutely! You can omit the gouda cheese and replace it with a dairy-free alternative or simply enjoy it as is for a lighter version.

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

When stored properly in an airtight container, this dish will last about 3 days in the fridge. Just be sure to let it cool completely before sealing!

Can I use fresh artichokes instead of marinated ones?

Yes, you can use fresh artichokes! Just be sure to cook them until tender before adding them to your gnocchi for best results.

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

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. The creamy texture complements crunchy sides perfectly!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes as much as I do! It’s a delightful dish that brings together so many wonderful flavors in just one pan. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight dinner or part of your meal prep routine, it’s bound to become a favorite! Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!