If you adore simple one-pot meals, you're in for a treat! Who could resist a recipe that excels in minimal ingredients, straightforward preparation, and effortless cleanup? I've picked up a plethora of cooking shortcuts, all to keep dishwashing to a minimum. Recently, I crafted this delightful pesto gnocchi bake that answers all my cravings for creamy comfort food.

With the chilly weather in Chicago, cozy dinners are a must. This gnocchi bake not only delivers warmth but also bursts with the lively flavors of pesto. And here's the bonus: a generous helping of spinach means you're getting your greens without needing a salad. (I'm a fan of recipes that incorporate greens like this—though a zesty lemon salad on the side would be a tasty addition.)

cheesy pesto and spinach gnocchi skillet bakecheesy pesto and spinach gnocchi skillet bake

Key Ingredients for Your Gnocchi Bake

Exciting news: you'll only need five ingredients to whip up this pesto gnocchi dish.

Pesto. This essential ingredient brings a rich, garlicky taste to the mix. If you're short on time, grab your favorite store-bought pesto. Alternatively, if you have a connection at a beloved Italian eatery, ask for a container of their homemade version. You'd be surprised how often they say yes! And if you're feeling ambitious, feel free to make your own—even the pros agree that store-bought works well.

Spinach. Toss in fresh spinach to create a vibrant green sauce. To amplify the flavor, add extra chopped spinach to the mix.

Cream cheese. This ingredient lends a smooth tanginess to the sauce. Alternatively, you can opt for whole milk or heavy cream.

Mozzarella. A gooey, golden top is essential for any pasta bake.

Gnocchi. This is the centerpiece of the dish. I used mini gnocchi from the store, but you can choose your favorite variety.

cheesy pesto and spinach gnocchi skillet bakecheesy pesto and spinach gnocchi skillet bake

Tips for a Flawless Gnocchi Bake

Creating this dish is a breeze, but here are some tips for optimal results. Start with an oven-safe skillet. If you don't have one, prepare the sauce in a regular pan and transfer it to a baking dish. But using one skillet is much easier.

Since we don't pre-cook the gnocchi, you'll need to add water to the sauce to ensure the gnocchi cooks properly. Begin by sautéing the spinach in the pesto, then blend it with water until smooth. If the sauce seems too thick, add a bit more water until you achieve a silky consistency that coats the gnocchi.

One more essential tip! For bubbly, cheesy dishes, place a baking sheet on the rack below the skillet to catch any overflow. It will save you from extra cleanup.

cheesy pesto and spinach gnocchi skillet bakecheesy pesto and spinach gnocchi skillet bake

Serving Suggestions

This dish is packed with greens, but pairing it with a fresh, tangy salad can elevate your meal. My go-to options:

Each of these salads will provide a refreshing contrast to the rich main dish. For special occasions or date nights, pair your meal with a crisp white wine to elevate the experience.

cheesy pesto and spinach gnocchi skillet bakecheesy pesto and spinach gnocchi skillet bake

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Description

This creamy pasta bake is an effortless, one-pan dish that will become a staple this season.

Ingredients

Units Scale
  • 4 tablespoons pesto, divided
  • 5 ounces of spinach
  • 3/4 cup of hot water
  • 3 ounces cream cheese
  • 17 ounces packaged gnocchi
  • 6 ounces shredded mozzarella
  • to serve: chopped basil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 425 F.
  2. In a stovetop or oven-safe skillet, combine 2 tablespoons of pesto, a generous pinch of salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Heat to medium. Add spinach and sauté until just wilted, then turn off the heat. Blend spinach and hot water with the remaining 2 tablespoons of pesto until smooth.
  3. Return the skillet to low heat and pour the sauce into it. Mix in the cream cheese until well combined. Turn off the heat and fold in the gnocchi, ensuring it's well coated in the sauce. You can optionally add more chopped spinach here.
  4. Sprinkle mozzarella evenly on top, then transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 30-35 minutes until the top is golden brown.
  5. Finish with extra pesto, salt, pepper, basil, and a drizzle of lemon juice. Enjoy!
  • Prep Time: 10
  • Cook Time: 35