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Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes: The Ultimate Comfort Food

Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Spinach and Artichokes: The Ultimate Comfort Food

This creamy pesto gnocchi is a quick and comforting weeknight dinner! Tender gnocchi is tossed in a rich, cheesy sauce with fresh baby spinach, tangy marinated artichokes, and aromatic pesto. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a flavorful, satisfying meal that feels indulgent without the hassle.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 500 g (1 lb) gnocchi

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

  • 1 yellow onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • ½ tablespoon dried oregano

  • ½ tablespoon dried basil

  • 150 ml (¾ cup) white wine or water

  • 250 ml (1 cup) cream

  • 250 ml (1 cup) water or vegetable stock

  • 125 g (4 cups) baby spinach

  • 280 g (9 oz) marinated artichokes, drained

  • 4 tablespoons basil pesto

  • 200 g (1 ⅔ cups) gouda or similar cheese, grated

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven: Set oven to 180°C (356°F).

  2. Sauté aromatics: Heat olive oil in a cast-iron or stainless steel skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and garlic, cooking until soft, fragrant, and translucent (about 3–4 minutes). Stir in oregano and basil and cook 1–2 minutes.

  3. Cook gnocchi: Add gnocchi to the pan, stirring occasionally, until lightly golden (3–5 minutes).

  4. Deglaze and simmer: Pour in white wine or water, scraping up any browned bits from the pan. Add cream and water (or stock) and simmer about 5 minutes, until gnocchi is tender and sauce is slightly thickened.

  5. Combine ingredients: Stir in pesto, baby spinach, and artichokes. The heat will wilt the spinach.

  6. Top with cheese and bake: Sprinkle shredded gouda over the top and bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.

  7. Serve: Serve directly from the pan while hot.

Notes

  • For a lighter version, substitute cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative.

  • Fresh herbs like basil or parsley make a beautiful garnish and add extra flavor.

  • Try adding sun-dried tomatoes or mushrooms for more depth and variety.

  • Use a non-stick or oven-safe skillet to make cooking and cleanup easier.

Nutrition