Baked Gnocchi Pesto is a delightful twist on a classic dish, featuring soft gnocchi smothered in creamy basil pesto and baked to perfection with a golden, cheesy topping. This comforting recipe combines fresh herbs, savory cheese, and tender gnocchi for a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions, this baked gnocchi pesto offers irresistible flavors with minimal effort. It’s a must-try dish for pasta lovers seeking a cozy, flavorful meal.
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Ingredients and Instructions for Baked Gnocchi pesto
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) of store-bought gnocchi
- 2 cups of pesto sauce (homemade or store-bought)
- 1 cup of cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup of fresh mozzarella cheese, diced
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- First of all, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures it’s ready when you need to bake your delicious dish.
Step 2: Boil the Gnocchi
- In a big pot, heat water with a pinch of salt until it comes to a rolling boil.
- Add the gnocchi and cook them until they float to the surface, typically taking about 2-3 minutes.
- Simply drain those plump gnocchi and set them aside for a moment.
Step 3: Mix with Pesto and Tomatoes
- In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, pesto sauce, and halved cherry tomatoes. Gently toss until the gnocchi is evenly coated in the pesto.
Step 4: Layer the Baking Dish
- Take an ovenproof baking dish and spread a thin layer of the gnocchi and pesto mixture at the bottom.
Step 5: Add Mozzarella
- Sprinkle half of the diced fresh mozzarella cheese over the first layer of gnocchi.
Step 6: Repeat Layers
- Create another layer of gnocchi and pesto mixture on top of the mozzarella layer.
Step 7: Top with Mozzarella and Parmesan
- Sprinkle the remaining diced fresh mozzarella cheese evenly over the second layer.
- Finish it off by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 8: Bake
- Pop the baking dish into your preheated oven and let it bake for approximately 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese turns delightfully bubbly and sports a gorgeous golden-brown hue.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
- If desired, garnish your gnocchi pesto with fresh basil leaves for an extra burst of flavor and a pop of color.
- Serve while it’s hot and Savor the deliciousness.
Step 10: Enjoy
- Your gnocchi pesto is ready to be enjoyed. Enjoy it with your loved ones for a delightful dining experience.
Recipe Video:
Credit: Chef Nehal Karkera
Tips and Variations:
- Feel free to add some cooked chicken or shrimp for an extra protein boost.
- Customize the pesto sauce with your favorite herbs and ingredients like pine nuts or sun-dried tomatoes.
- If you prefer a crispy top, broil the dish for a couple of minutes at the end until it’s nicely browned.
- Pair your meal with a side salad or garlic bread to complete the dining experience.
Nutrition Facts for Gnocchi pesto (Per Serving):
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
| Calories | Approximately 480 kcal |
| Protein | 12g |
| Carbohydrates | 29g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2g |
| Total Sugars | 1g |
| Total Fat | 35g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 22mg |
| Sodium | 640mg |
Health Benefits:
- Protein Source: This dish provides a decent amount of protein, essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
- Energy from Carbohydrates: The carbohydrates in gnocchi provide a great source of energy to keep you fuelled throughout the day.
- Dietary Fiber: With some dietary fibre, this meal supports healthy digestion.
- Calcium Boost: Parmesan cheese is rich in calcium, promoting strong bones and teeth.
- Nutrient-Rich Pesto: Pesto, typically made with basil, pine nuts, and olive oil, can provide vitamins, minerals, and healthy fats.
- Fresh Cherry Tomatoes: Cherry tomatoes are a source of vitamins A and C, as well as antioxidants.
- Heart-Healthy Fats: Olive oil in the pesto contributes heart-healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Flavourful Herbs and Spices: Basil, a key ingredient in pesto, adds flavour and potentially offers antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits. Garlic, another common ingredient, may have various health benefits, including immune system support.
- Variety of Flavors: The combination of pesto, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses provides a rich and satisfying taste experience.
- Moderate Calories: This dish offers a satisfying meal without excessive calories, suitable for various dietary plans.
- Versatile Dish: Customize it with your favourite herbs and ingredients to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Enjoy your gnocchi pesto, a well-rounded and flavourful meal.
Storage and Leftovers for Gnocchi pesto:
- Refrigeration: Place any remaining gnocchi in an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. Properly stored, it should stay fresh for 2-3 days.
- Reheating: To reheat, gently warm the leftovers in a covered saucepan over low heat or use the microwave until they’re heated through. A bit of moisture, like a splash of water or extra pesto sauce, can help maintain the dish’s moisture.
- Avoid Freezing: While refrigerating leftovers is fine, freezing isn’t recommended. Freezing may affect the texture of the gnocchi and pesto when thawed, resulting in a less enjoyable dining experience.
Now you can enjoy your gnocchi pesto both freshly made and as scrumptious leftovers without worry.
FAQ’s
Q. What kind of pesto works best for baked gnocchi?
Classic basil pesto is the go-to choice, but you can also use sun-dried tomato pesto or spinach pesto for a twist. Homemade or store-bought both work well.
Q. Do I need to pre-cook the gnocchi before baking?
Usually, no. Most recipes allow the gnocchi to cook directly in the sauce while baking, as they absorb the flavors and become perfectly tender.
Q. What type of cheese should I use in baked gnocchi pesto?
Mozzarella and Parmesan are common choices. Mozzarella gives a gooey texture, while Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor. You can also experiment with ricotta or goat cheese for extra creaminess.
Q. Can I add vegetables or protein to the dish?
Definitely, Cherry tomatoes, spinach, or roasted zucchini pair well. For protein, grilled chicken, shrimp, or crispy pancetta make delicious additions.
Q. What’s the best baking dish for this recipe?
A ceramic or glass baking dish works best because it distributes heat evenly and prevents sticking. A 9×13-inch dish is ideal for larger portions.
Q. How do I store and reheat baked gnocchi pesto?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions for a quicker option.
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