– 1 pound gnocchi (fresh or packaged)
– 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup cream
– 1 cup pesto sauce
– 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Creating this Creamy Pesto & Spinach Gnocchi Bake is simple if you follow these steps:
1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook Gnocchi: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float. Drain and set aside.
3. Sauté Spinach: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add Spinach: Add the chopped spinach to the skillet. Cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
5. Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, sautéed spinach, cream, and pesto sauce. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
6. Add Cheese: Stir in half of the mozzarella and all the Parmesan cheese. Mix until combined.
7. Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the gnocchi mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish and spread evenly.
8. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese over the top of the gnocchi mixture.
9. Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
10. Serve: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have a dreamy Creamy Pesto & Spinach Gnocchi Bake ready to impress.