Sheet Pan Pesto Gnocchi (Quick, Flavor-Packed Dinner!)
With my family’s busy schedule, there’s nothing I love more than a simple dinner that I can whip up and serve in a flash.
But sometimes, I get tired of reheating frozen leftovers or choosing between the same couple of recipes in my rotation. So when I want to mix things up, I go for one-pan meals that look impressive, taste incredible, and still manage to win over the picky eaters in my home.
And my Sheet Pan Pesto Gnocchi fits that bill.
The gnocchi roasts up golden on the outside while staying perfectly soft and pillowy inside, served alongside juicy cherry tomatoes, all coated in rich pesto.
And it’s all completely hands-off; just toss everything on a pan and pop it in the oven.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and easy — ready in under 30 minutes!
- A comforting combination of rich flavors and textures
- Minimal clean-up thanks to the sheet-pan method
- Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings
- Easy to customize with your favorite veggies or proteins
The Story Behind the Recipe
After my kid came up to me in the kitchen and said “Are we having stir-fry again?” one night, I knew I needed to switch things up.
I always made something easy during weeknights, but I realized my kids were tired of having the same dishes over and over — and I was tired of making them too.
So the next night, I decided to experiment with what I had on hand. I had gnocchi in my pantry and a half-used jar of pesto in the fridge, and a lightbulb went off.
Instead of boiling the gnocchi, I spread everything onto a sheet pan, tossed in some cherry tomatoes, and let the oven do the work.
When I pulled out the pan, everything smelled heavenly and looked scrumptious — crispy, golden gnocchi, sweet roasted tomatoes, and pesto-infused goodness, all with almost no effort.
Now this recipe is my secret weapon for when I need an easy, flavorful meal that doesn’t feel like a repeat of last night’s dinner!
Ingredients & Substitutions
- 1 package (around 16 oz.) gnocchi
- 1 cup pesto (homemade or jarred)
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- 1 red onion (sliced)
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- Parmesan cheese (optional for serving)
Prep & Cook Time
| Activity | Time |
|---|---|
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
| Cook Time | 30 minutes |
| Total Time | 40 minutes |
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- On a large sheet pan lined with parchment paper, combine the gnocchi, cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, zucchini, and onion.
- Pour the pesto over all the ingredients and toss to coat evenly.
- Spread everything out in an even layer. Make sure none of the gnocchi pieces are stuck together.
- Bake for 30 minutes, or until the veggies are tender and the gnocchi are golden.
- Remove from the oven and serve with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy touch.
Expert Tips for the Best Sheet Pan Pesto Gnocchi
- Try different pesto variations like sun-dried tomato or roasted red pepper for a more unique take on this dish.
- Customize the veggies based on what you have on hand, such as broccoli or asparagus, for added nutrition and flavor.
- For extra flavor, top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts before serving. This adds a delightful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft gnocchi.
- You can also top with a few more spoonfuls of pesto or store-bought grated parmesan cheese after cooking to enhance the flavor.
- To level up your version, make this dish with homemade pesto sauce or homemade gnocchi.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 320 |
| Protein | 10g |
| Carbohydrates | 50g |
| Fat | 12g |
| Fiber | 4g |
FAQs About Sheet Pan Pesto Gnocchi
Can I add meat to this recipe?
Absolutely. I like making this recipe for Meatless Mondays, but feel free to add chicken or Italian sausage to your version.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Prep the ingredients in advance and bake just before serving for the freshest results.
What if I have leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days; just reheat gently to maintain the ideal texture.
Enjoy This Fancy, Flavorful, and Fuss-Free Sheet Pan Pesto Gnocchi!
I hope this sheet pan pesto gnocchi becomes a staple in your kitchen! It’s perfect for both busy weeknights and large gatherings. With minimal prep and hands-off baking, this dish proves that delicious, comforting meals don’t have to be complicated!
