Pesto and Cherry Tomato Burst Gnocchi Pasta
When dinner needs to be fast, flavorful, and feel a little special, this Pesto and Cherry Tomato Burst Gnocchi Pasta is the answer. It comes together in one pan with minimal prep and delivers big on taste. The combination of crispy gnocchi, juicy cherry tomatoes, fresh pesto, and creamy burrata makes this a weeknight staple you will want to make on repeat.
Pesto and Cherry Tomato Burst Gnocchi Pasta
This recipe is all about textures and contrasts. The gnocchi gets crispy and golden on the outside while staying soft and pillowy in the center. Cherry tomatoes burst in the skillet, creating a sweet and slightly jammy sauce that mixes perfectly with the bright, garlicky pesto. A generous scoop of burrata right on top adds creamy richness that ties everything together. It is a balanced, satisfying, and downright comforting dish.
Ingredients Needed to Make Pesto and Cherry Tomato Burst Gnocchi Pasta~
For the Pasta~
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil
- 1 17 oz Package of gnocchi
- 2 cups of Cherry Tomatoes
- 1 ball of Burrata Cheese
For the pesto~
- 1 cup of Fresh Basil
- 1/4 cup of Parmesan Cheese
- 3 tbsp pf pine nuts
- Juice from 1 lemon
- 3 cloves of Garlic
- 1/4 cup of Olive Oil
- 1/4 tsp of salt and 1/4 tsp of pepper
Notes for Success~
✔️ Use a nonstick skillet or well-seasoned cast iron to help the gnocchi crisp without sticking.
✔️ Do not overcrowd the pan—cook gnocchi in batches if needed.
✔️ Burrata is best added at the very end so it stays cool and creamy against the hot pasta.
✔️ You can substitute store-bought pesto to save time.
🍽️ How to Serve~
This pesto gnocchi dish is versatile and easy to pair with other recipes. Here are a few ways to round out your meal:
- As a Main Dish: Serve with a refreshing Shaved Brussels Sprouts Caesar or a simple Spinach Salad for contrast and crunch.
- For Entertaining: Pair with Sesame focaccia or Prosciutto Cheddar and Fig Toast and a glass of crisp white wine for an elevated dinner party feel.
- Meal Prep Option: Make ahead and store in airtight containers. Gently reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of water if needed to loosen the sauce.
Give this Pesto and Cherry Tomato Burst Gnocchi Pasta a try this week and let it become your new go-to pasta night favorite. If you loved this, be sure to check out my Baked feta Pasta or Spicy Sausage and Burrata Pasta for more easy pasta inspiration!
Pesto and Cherry Tomato Burst Gnocchi Pasta
Ingredients
For the Pasta:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 17- ounce package of gnocchi fresh or shelf-stable
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 ball of burrata cheese
For the Pesto:
- 1 cup of Fresh Basil
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 3 tablespoons pine nuts
- Juice from 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Make the Pesto: Add Parmesan, pine nuts, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, salt, and pepper to a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth and creamy.1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, 3 tablespoons pine nuts, Juice from 1 lemon, 3 cloves garlic, 1/4 cup olive oil, 1/4 teaspoon salt, 1/4 teaspoon black pepper, 1 cup of Fresh Basil
- Crisp the Gnocchi Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add gnocchi and cook undisturbed for 2–3 minutes.1 tablespoon olive oil, 1 17- ounce package of gnocchi
- Burst the Tomatoes: In the same skillet, add cherry tomatoes and cook until they begin to soften and burst, about 7-8 minutes. Use the back of a spoon to gently press some of them for extra juiciness.2 cups cherry tomatoes
- Add the Pesto: Pour in the pesto along with 1/4 cup of water and toss gently to coat everything evenly. Remove from heat.
- Top with Burrata: Tear the burrata over the pasta and serve immediately.1 ball of burrata cheese
Notes
✔️ Do not overcrowd the pan—cook gnocchi in batches if needed.
✔️ Burrata is best added at the very end so it stays cool and creamy against the hot pasta.
✔️ You can substitute store-bought pesto to save time.
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