Get ready to fall in love with your next weeknight favorite: One Pan Gnocchi Pesto Bake: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe. Imagine pillowy gnocchi enrobed in basil-scented pesto, tossed with juicy bursts of cherry tomato, and melted golden cheese on top—all bubbling together in one skillet with little cleanup after. It’s comfort food at its peak, as easy as it is stunning to serve, and the kind of dish you’ll find yourself reaching for any busy night or when you want to impress with minimal fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
You’ll be amazed how a handful of fresh, everyday ingredients can morph into the ultimate Italian comfort dish. Each element in this recipe plays a starring role, from the gnocchi’s tender bite to that final sprinkle of aromatic basil—nothing is here by accident!
- Potato gnocchi (500 grams): These are the heart of the dish, and their fluffy, chewy texture soaks up all the flavors beautifully. Use fresh if possible for the best results, but frozen absolutely works in a pinch.
- Basil pesto (1/2 cup): The soul of the bake—bold, herbal, and nutty. Homemade or store-bought both shine, just go for the brightest green you can find.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup, halved): They add vibrant color and a juicy pop that balances the richness of the cheese and pesto.
- Mozzarella cheese (1 cup shredded): Melts into gooey, stringy pools, giving every bite luscious, comforting stretch.
- Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup grated): Salty, nutty, and packed with umami, Parmesan creates that craveable golden crust.
- Garlic (2 cloves minced): Essential for building savory depth and that unmistakable Italian aroma that fills your kitchen.
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons): Helps everything brown beautifully and carries all those flavors together.
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish): A simple sprinkle at the end brightens the dish and makes it feel extra special.
- Salt (to taste): Balances and sharpens every flavor—don’t skip it.
- Black pepper (to taste): A few grinds cut through the richness and keep things lively.
- Red pepper flakes (optional, 1/4 teaspoon): Want just a whisper of heat? Toss these in.
How to Make One Pan Gnocchi Pesto Bake: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Start by cranking your oven up to 400°F (200°C). This ensures a hot environment that will melt the cheese to bubbling perfection and give your gnocchi bake its signature golden finish. Taking care of this step first means you’re ready once everything’s assembled—no waiting around!
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Pour the olive oil into your largest oven-safe skillet or pan and heat it over medium. Add the minced garlic, stirring for about a minute until the kitchen smells irresistible. Be sure not to let it brown, just gently coax out those aromatic oils.
Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi straight into the skillet. Let them sit for a moment or two between stirs so they develop that gorgeous, slightly crispy golden edge—this is the secret to elevating your One Pan Gnocchi Pesto Bake: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe above classic versions!
Step 4: Add Pesto and Tomatoes
Stir in the luscious basil pesto and all those bright cherry tomato halves. Mix everything well so every gnocchi is gloriously coated. The tomatoes will soften and release their juices, mingling beautifully with the pesto. Here’s the time to sprinkle in salt, pepper, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you crave a little warmth.
Step 5: Add the Cheeses and Bake
Spread the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, then shower on the grated Parmesan. Transfer the skilled to your preheated oven. Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling at the edges. That cheesy lid is what makes this dish absolutely irresistible!
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Pull the skillet from the oven—the aroma will make it hard to wait! Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top for gorgeous color and a fresh, peppery finish. Serve it up warm and get ready for all the happy sighs around the table.
How to Serve One Pan Gnocchi Pesto Bake: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
Garnishes
A handful of torn or chiffonade basil leaves is all you need for a vibrant pop of color and freshness. For extra flavor, you can also dust a little more Parmesan or drizzle on the tiniest bit of extra-virgin olive oil just before serving. These simple touches add a restaurant-worthy polish with barely any effort!
Side Dishes
This One Pan Gnocchi Pesto Bake: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe shines alongside a crisp green salad (arugula, spinach, or mixed greens with a lemony vinaigrette are my go-to). You can also pair it with crusty bread to mop up every last bit of that dreamy cheese and pesto, or serve some roasted seasonal vegetables for a heartier meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the bake straight from the hot skillet at the table for a cozy, family-style feel. If you’re feeding a crowd, spoon portions into individual ramekins for an elevated look. For fun, scatter a few toasted pine nuts or a swirl of extra pesto on top before serving—the presentation possibilities are as limitless as your imagination.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you find yourself with leftovers of One Pan Gnocchi Pesto Bake: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe, transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors only deepen and become more delicious, making tomorrow’s lunch something to look forward to.
Freezing
To freeze, let the bake cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers. It will keep well for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge or use the defrost setting on your microwave—just note the gnocchi may soften a bit, but the cheesy-herby deliciousness is all still there.
Reheating
For best results, reheat the One Pan Gnocchi Pesto Bake: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe in a 350°F (175°C) oven, covered with foil, until fully warmed through (usually 15-20 minutes). This keeps the cheese melty and the gnocchi from drying out. A quick zap in the microwave works in a pinch, but the oven ensures it tastes freshly baked.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi instead of fresh?
Yes, you can! Just add them to the pan straight from the freezer for convenience. They may require an extra minute or two to cook on the stovetop, but the final bake will be just as dreamy and satisfying.
How do I make this recipe vegan?
Easy! Swap in your favorite plant-based shredded mozzarella and Parmesan, plus a dairy-free basil pesto. The rest of the process remains unchanged, and the result is every bit as comforting and flavorful.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely. Toss in cooked, sliced chicken breast, crumbled sausage, or sautéed mushrooms before baking if you want extra substance. These additions play beautifully with the pesto and cheese, making the meal even more hearty.
Is it possible to prep One Pan Gnocchi Pesto Bake: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe in advance?
Yes! You can assemble the entire dish up to the point of baking, cover, and refrigerate it for several hours or overnight. When you’re ready to eat, just bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if cooking straight from the fridge.
What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?
No problem—just sauté everything in a regular pan, then transfer the mixture to a baking dish before adding the cheese and baking. You’ll still get all that gooey, golden topping and incredible flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’re craving a fuss-free, showstopping meal, One Pan Gnocchi Pesto Bake: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe is exactly what your dinner routine needs. It’s bursting with flavor, ready in a flash, and always leaves everyone clamoring for seconds. Don’t hesitate—give it a try, and watch it become an instant classic at your table!
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One Pan Gnocchi Pesto Bake: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This One Pan Gnocchi Pesto Bake is the ultimate comfort food that’s easy to make and incredibly delicious. Gnocchi, cherry tomatoes, and basil pesto come together in a cheesy, gooey bake that’s perfect for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Gnocchi:
- Potato gnocchi – 500 grams
Pesto Mixture:
- Basil pesto – 1/2 cup
- Cherry tomatoes, halved – 1 cup
- Mozzarella cheese, shredded – 1 cup
- Parmesan cheese, grated – 1/4 cup
- Garlic, minced – 2 cloves
- Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Salt and black pepper (to taste)
- Red pepper flakes (optional) – 1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Sauté Garlic: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet. Sauté minced garlic until fragrant.
- Cook Gnocchi: Add gnocchi to the skillet and cook until lightly golden.
- Add Pesto: Stir in basil pesto and cherry tomatoes, ensuring the gnocchi is well coated.
- Season: Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
- Add Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan over the top.
- Bake: Transfer skillet to oven and bake for 15-20 minutes until cheese is melted and golden.
- Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.
Notes
- For a vegan option, use dairy-free cheese and plant-based pesto.
- Enhance with cooked chicken or sautéed vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
- Fresh gnocchi is recommended for best results, but frozen works too.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Oven-baked, Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 3 grams
- Sodium: 700 milligrams
- Fat: 22 grams
- Saturated Fat: 9 grams
- Unsaturated Fat: 11 grams
- Trans Fat: 0 grams
- Carbohydrates: 52 grams
- Fiber: 3 grams
- Protein: 18 grams
- Cholesterol: 40 milligrams
