Creamy Pesto Gnocchi for Two That Will Make You Skip Takeout Tonight
I have to be honest with you—I didn’t plan on making this recipe at first. It all started on a busy weeknight when I was craving something warm, comforting, and full of flavor but didn’t want to spend hours in the kitchen.
That’s when creamy pesto gnocchi for two became my go-to. It’s quick, it’s cozy, and it feels like a fancy dinner without the fuss. If you’ve got 20 minutes, you’ve got dinner. Trust me, you’re going to love this.
Why You’ll Love Creamy Pesto Gnocchi
This dish is the perfect mix of comfort food and fresh flavor. The pillowy gnocchi is soft and chewy, the creamy sauce makes it rich and satisfying, and the pesto adds that herby punch that keeps every bite interesting. It’s restaurant-worthy but way easier than you think. Plus, it’s portioned just right for two—whether you’re cooking for date night, a friend, or just want to treat yourself with leftovers tomorrow.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You don’t need a long list to make this recipe work. Here’s what goes into it:
- Gnocchi – One package (about 16 oz). Store-bought works perfectly.
- Pesto – Use your favorite jarred pesto or homemade if you’ve got it.
- Heavy cream – For that silky, rich sauce.
- Garlic – One or two cloves, minced.
- Parmesan cheese – Freshly grated for the best flavor.
- Olive oil or butter – To start things off.
- Salt and pepper – To taste.
- Optional add-ins – Spinach, mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or even grilled chicken if you want more protein.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Here’s how simple it is to make:
1. Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to the package. It usually only takes 2–3 minutes until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
2. Make the Sauce
In a skillet, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for a few minutes. Stir in the pesto until it blends into the cream.
3. Combine Everything
Add the cooked gnocchi straight into the skillet with the sauce. Toss gently so each little dumpling gets coated. Sprinkle with Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
4. Serve and Enjoy
Divide into two bowls, top with extra cheese if you like, and maybe a drizzle of olive oil. That’s it—you’ve got creamy pesto gnocchi that feels like it came from your favorite Italian restaurant.
Tips to Make It Even Better
- Use fresh refrigerated gnocchi if you can—they have the best texture.
- Don’t skip the Parmesan. It thickens the sauce and gives that nutty bite.
- Want more veggies? Toss in spinach, peas, or sautéed mushrooms right into the sauce.
- Add a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for a fresh twist.
Why This Recipe Works for Two
So many pasta recipes make way too much. This one is scaled just right so you don’t end up with a fridge full of leftovers (unless you want them). It’s quick, it’s filling, and it’s a perfect little meal to share without wasting ingredients.
What to Serve with Creamy Pesto Gnocchi
You don’t really need much because this dish is already rich and satisfying. But if you want to round it out, here are a few simple ideas:
- A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread or a baguette for dipping in the sauce
- Roasted veggies like broccoli, zucchini, or asparagus
FAQs About Creamy Pesto Gnocchi
Q: Can I use milk instead of cream?
A: You can, but the sauce won’t be as thick or rich. Half-and-half is a better swap if you want it lighter.
Q: What kind of pesto works best?
A: Classic basil pesto is my favorite, but sun-dried tomato pesto or even arugula pesto works great too.
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: It’s best fresh, but you can prep the sauce earlier in the day. Just reheat gently and add the gnocchi right before serving.
Q: How can I make it vegan?
A: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of dairy, and swap in a dairy-free pesto and vegan Parmesan.
Q: Does this recipe double easily?
A: Absolutely! Just double the ingredients and use a bigger skillet.
That’s it—creamy pesto gnocchi for two that will make you forget about takeout. It’s quick, rich, and full of flavor. Once you try it, I promise you’ll keep coming back to it again and again.
