One-Pot Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Roasted Tomatoes is a dream come true for anyone looking for a quick, flavorful, and comforting meal that doesn’t require a mountain of dishes. This dish brings together pillowy gnocchi, luscious roasted cherry tomatoes, and a rich, creamy pesto sauce all in one pan. It’s the perfect weeknight dinner that feels indulgent but comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a family, this recipe is a winner every time.

Why This One-Pot Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Roasted Tomatoes Stands Out

What makes this One-Pot Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Roasted Tomatoes truly special is how effortless it is without sacrificing any flavor or texture. Roasting the cherry tomatoes concentrates their sweetness and adds a slight caramelized touch, which pairs beautifully with the creamy pesto-infused sauce. Using gnocchi means you get a tender, comforting base that soaks up all those delicious flavors. Plus, cooking everything in one pot means less cleanup, making this meal both convenient and satisfying. The addition of fresh basil leaves as garnish adds a burst of freshness that elevates the dish even more.

Ingredients at a Glance

1 package gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian option)
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup pesto (store-bought or see Homemade Basil Pesto for an easy recipe)
1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Recommended Tools

Large non-stick skillet or sauté pan – for roasting tomatoes and cooking gnocchi in one pot.
Wooden spoon or silicone spatula – to stir gently without mashing the gnocchi.
Chef’s knife – for halving cherry tomatoes.
Measuring cups and spoons – to keep the ingredients precise.
Grater – for freshly grating Parmesan cheese.

Make One-Pot Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Roasted Tomatoes: A Simple Method

Step 1: Roast the Cherry Tomatoes

Preheat your skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Toss the halved cherry tomatoes in the pan, seasoning with salt and pepper. Let them cook undisturbed for about 5-7 minutes until they begin to soften and develop a lovely caramelized color. Stir gently halfway through so they roast evenly. This step enhances their natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish.

Step 2: Add Broth and Gnocchi

Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Then add the gnocchi directly to the skillet. Stir to combine and bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover the pan and cook for about 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface, indicating they are cooked through.

Step 3: Stir in Cream and Pesto

Reduce the heat to low and pour in the heavy cream along with the pesto. Stir gently to coat the gnocchi and tomatoes completely. Let the sauce thicken for about 2-3 minutes. The pesto melts into the creamy base, creating a vibrant green sauce that clings to every bite.

Step 4: Finish with Parmesan and Basil

Remove the pan from heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and smooth. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the gnocchi topped with fresh basil leaves for a fragrant and colorful finish. For an added touch, try pairing this dish with Bruschetta With Tomato And Basil as a starter or side.

Ingredient Flex Options

Gnocchi: Swap potato gnocchi for cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb version.
Broth: Use vegetable broth to keep this dish vegetarian-friendly.
Cream: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream for a dairy-free alternative.
Pesto: Try sun-dried tomato pesto or arugula pesto for a different flavor profile.
Cheese: Use a vegan Parmesan or nutritional yeast for a plant-based option.

Steer Clear of These

Avoid overcooking the gnocchi. They cook quickly and become mushy if left too long in the liquid.
Don’t skip seasoning the tomatoes before roasting; it brings out their flavor and balances the creaminess.
Refrain from using pre-grated Parmesan with additives that may affect melting and texture.
Avoid high heat after adding cream to prevent curdling.

Leftovers & Meal Prep

This One-Pot Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Roasted Tomatoes holds up well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream during reheating to loosen the sauce.

For meal prep, prepare the roasted tomatoes and gnocchi mixture ahead of time and keep the pesto and cream separate until just before serving. This keeps the sauce fresh and vibrant when you’re ready to enjoy.

Helpful Q&A

Can I make this dish vegan?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth, use a plant-based cream substitute like coconut cream, replace Parmesan with nutritional yeast or vegan cheese, and make sure your pesto is nut and dairy-free or use a vegan pesto recipe.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover gnocchi?

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce. This helps prevent the gnocchi from sticking or drying out.

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time in step 2, as frozen gnocchi takes slightly longer to cook through.

Is it possible to make this gluten-free?

Definitely! Use gluten-free gnocchi available in most grocery stores. Just check the label to ensure all other ingredients like broth and pesto are gluten-free as well.

More Recipes You’ll Love

Homemade Basil Pesto – Make your own fresh pesto to elevate dishes like this one.
Bruschetta With Tomato And Basil – A perfect appetizer or side with similar fresh flavors.
Creamy Mushroom Pasta – Another comforting one-pot pasta recipe that’s easy and delicious.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp – A quick protein addition to serve alongside your pasta dishes.

Final Thoughts

One-Pot Creamy Pesto Gnocchi with Roasted Tomatoes is a beautiful balance of creamy, tangy, and fresh flavors all in one bowl. The simplicity of cooking everything in one pan makes it accessible for cooks of all skill levels, while the combination of roasted tomatoes and pesto brings a vibrant twist to traditional gnocchi dishes. This recipe is a perfect weeknight meal that feels special without the fuss, and it’s versatile enough to accommodate a variety of dietary preferences. Whether you’re craving something cozy or looking to impress guests with minimal effort, this dish hits all the right notes.

Give it a try and enjoy the rich, comforting flavors with the ease of a single pot. You might find yourself making this recipe again and again!

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