If you're on the hunt for a cozy, comforting dish that brings the vibrant flavors of Italy right to your dinner table, look no further than this Skillet Pesto Meatball Gnocchi Bake! With juicy, homemade meatballs nestled among pillowy gnocchi and smothered in rich pesto, this one-pan wonder is not only a feast for the eyes but also a delightful explosion of taste in every bite. Perfect for busy weeknights or a special family gathering, this recipe promises to impress and satisfy. Get ready to elevate your cooking game and tantalize your taste buds with this irresistible dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 40 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Gnocchi
- Pesto sauce
- Ground beef or turkey
- Parmesan cheese
- Olive oil
- Garlic
- Salt
- Pepper
- Fresh basil
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Prepare a large oven-safe skillet by lightly greasing it with olive oil.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef (or turkey), minced garlic, 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix thoroughly until well combined.
- Form the meat mixture into small, uniform meatballs approximately 1-inch in diameter. Ensure they are compact and well-shaped.
- Heat olive oil in the prepared skillet over medium-high heat. Carefully brown the meatballs on all sides, turning gently to create a golden crust. This should take about 5-6 minutes.
- Remove the meatballs from the skillet and set aside momentarily. In the same skillet, add the gnocchi and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing them to get slightly golden.
- Return the meatballs to the skillet, distributing them evenly among the gnocchi. Generously spoon pesto sauce over the meatballs and gnocchi, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese over the top of the dish. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the meatballs are fully cooked through and the cheese is melted and slightly golden.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves before serving.
- Serve hot directly from the skillet, ensuring each portion has a mix of meatballs and gnocchi.
Tips
- Choose Quality Ingredients: For the best flavor, opt for high-quality pesto and fresh Parmesan cheese. If you have time, consider making your own pesto for a personalized touch.
- Don’t Skip Browning the Meatballs: Browning the meatballs before baking adds depth and flavor. Make sure to turn them gently to achieve an even golden crust.
- Customize Your Gnocchi: Feel free to use store-bought gnocchi or make your own from scratch. You can also experiment with different types of gnocchi, such as sweet potato or spinach, for added flavor.
- Add Extra Veggies: To boost the nutritional value, consider adding vegetables like spinach, cherry tomatoes, or bell peppers to the skillet before baking.
- Rest Before Serving: Let the dish rest for about 5 minutes after baking. This allows the flavors to meld together and makes it easier to serve.
- Garnish for Presentation: A sprinkle of fresh basil not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful pop of color to your dish.
- Serving Suggestions: Pair this dish with a simple green salad or crusty bread to soak up any leftover pesto sauce for a complete meal.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 550kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 28g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 10g
Cholesterol: 85mg
