Creamy Pesto & Spinach Gnocchi Bake

Creamy Pesto and Spinach Gnocchi Bake Delight 🍽️🌿✨

1. Introduction

If you’re searching for a comforting and flavorful gnocchi bake that combines the richness of pesto with fresh spinach, you’ve come to the right place! This creamy pesto gnocchi casserole is a hearty dish that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Its luscious texture and vibrant flavors make it a standout in any meal rotation. Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a beginner, this recipe is easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

2. Ingredients

• 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)
• 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
• 1/2 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

3. Step-by-Step Instructions for the Perfect Spinach Gnocchi Casserole

Step 1: Prepare the oven and ingredients

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Gather all ingredients and set aside for easy assembly.

Step 2: Cook the gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, approximately 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Sauté spinach and garlic

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat.

Step 4: Prepare the creamy pesto sauce

In a mixing bowl, whisk together heavy cream, basil pesto, and grated Parmesan cheese until smooth. Add the cooked spinach and garlic mixture. Mix well.

Step 5: Combine gnocchi and sauce

In a large bowl, toss the cooked gnocchi with the pesto cream sauce until evenly coated.

Step 6: Assemble and bake

Transfer the gnocchi mixture into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden brown.

4. Storage Tips for Leftovers

Allow the spinach gnocchi casserole to cool completely before storing. Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or bake at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. For best results, add additional cheese on top before reheating for a fresh-out-of-the-oven flavor.

5. Serving Suggestions

This creamy pesto gnocchi bake pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for extra aroma and visual appeal. For a complete Italian-inspired meal, consider serving with garlic bread or a glass of chilled white wine.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use gluten-free gnocchi?

Yes, substituting regular gnocchi with gluten-free options works perfectly, making this spinach gnocchi casserole suitable for gluten-sensitive diets.

Can I make this dish vegan?

To make the dish vegan, replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and use vegan cheese instead of mozzarella and Parmesan. The vibrant flavors will still shine through!

How long does it take to prepare this gnocchi bake?

The total preparation and cooking time is approximately 40-45 minutes, making it an easy weeknight dinner with minimal effort.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

• Non-stick skillet — A high-quality skillet makes sautéing spinach and garlic effortless, ensuring even cooking and easy cleanup.
• Baking dish — An oven-safe dish is essential for baking the casserole to perfection.
• Mixing bowls — Useful for combining ingredients smoothly and prepping without mess.
• Chef’s knife — For chopping spinach and garlic with precision and safety.

Investing in these tools will significantly enhance your cooking experience and help you create this delicious spinach gnocchi casserole with ease.

8. Additional Recipes to Try

• Creamy Broccoli Cheese Potato Soup
• Ultimate Easy Chicken Pot Pie
• Festive No-Bake Cookie Lasagna

9. Conclusion

This creamy pesto and spinach gnocchi bake beautifully combines fresh flavors with creamy textures to create a satisfying meal. Whether you’re looking for a cozy family dinner or a dish to impress guests, this spinach gnocchi casserole is sure to become a favorite. Easy to customize with your favorite ingredients and versatile for different dietary needs, it’s a delightful addition to your cooking repertoire. Give it a try today and enjoy a comforting, flavorful experience that everyone will love!

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