Description
This creamy pesto gnocchi recipe features tender potato gnocchi simmered in a luscious sauce made with parmesan, heavy cream, and homemade pesto. Enhanced by shallots sautéed in olive oil and a splash of white wine, this comforting dish is quick to prepare on the stovetop and boasts a perfect balance of rich flavors and fresh herbs.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 1 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil
- 1 small shallot, chopped
- 2 tbsp dry white wine
- 2 lbs uncooked potato gnocchi
- 1/3 cup grated parmesan cheese
- 2/3 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
- 2/3 cup homemade pesto
Instructions
- Heat Olive Oil: In a large skillet over medium heat, warm the extra-virgin olive oil to prepare for sautéing the aromatics.
- Sauté Shallots: Add the chopped shallots to the skillet and cook until they become translucent, tossing occasionally to avoid burning, which should take a few minutes.
- Add Wine and Gnocchi: Pour in the dry white wine followed by the uncooked potato gnocchi; gently toss to evenly coat the gnocchi in the wine and oil mixture and cook for about 2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Add Dairy and Broth: Increase the heat to just below medium-high, then stir in the grated parmesan, heavy cream, and low-sodium chicken broth. Cook the mixture until it becomes bubbly, approximately 3 to 5 minutes, creating a rich sauce.
- Toss Gnocchi: Reduce the heat back to medium and gently toss the gnocchi in the sauce frequently to prevent sticking to the pan and to ensure even cooking.
- Incorporate Pesto: Add the homemade pesto and thoroughly mix it into the gnocchi, continuing to cook for about 2 minutes or until the gnocchi reaches an al dente texture and is well-coated with the pesto cream sauce.
Notes
- For best results, use fresh or homemade gnocchi for tender texture, though store-bought works well too.
- You can substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make the dish vegetarian if using vegetarian pesto.
- Adjust the amount of pesto to taste depending on how strong you prefer the herb flavor.
- Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi; they should remain tender but firm to the bite.
- Serve immediately for optimal texture and flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Keywords: creamy pesto gnocchi, potato gnocchi recipe, homemade pesto sauce, Italian dinner, easy gnocchi recipe
