If you’re looking for a dish that’s bursting with flavor, vibrantly colorful, and downright comforting, this Creamy Lemon Pesto Gnocchi with Broccoli Recipe is going to become your new go-to. The pillowy soft gnocchi, bright green broccoli and kale, and that luscious, tangy lemon pesto sauce all come together in perfect harmony to create a meal that feels both fresh and indulgent. It’s the kind of recipe that’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress friends at a dinner party. Once you try it, you’ll understand why this creamy lemon pesto gnocchi with broccoli recipe has earned such a beloved spot on my table.

Creamy Lemon Pesto Gnocchi with Broccoli Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe proves that incredible meals don’t require a pantry full of hard-to-find items. Each ingredient has its role in bringing texture, earthiness, creaminess, and brightness to the plate, making sure every bite feels balanced and delicious.

16 oz. potato gnocchi: Soft and pillowy, they serve as the comforting base of the dish.
2-3 cups broccoli or broccolini, ends trimmed: Adds a fresh, slightly crunchy green component packed with nutrients.
2 cups chopped kale, fresh or frozen: Brings an earthy bitterness that balances the richness perfectly.
1 tablespoon extra virgin olive oil: Used to lightly sauté veggies and impart subtle fruity notes.
½ teaspoon sea salt: Enhances all the natural flavors in the dish.
½ teaspoon black pepper: Provides gentle heat and depth.
½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds savory, aromatic undertones.
½ teaspoon smoked paprika: Lends a smoky warmth that surprises the palate.
½ teaspoon dried oregano: Introduces subtle herbal earthiness.
½ teaspoon dried basil: Offers a sweet, slightly minty freshness.
2 tablespoons unsalted butter: Creates a silky, rich sauce base.
2 garlic cloves, minced: Gives the sauce a burst of fragrant intensity.
1 ½ cups organic heavy cream: Makes the sauce decadently creamy and smooth.
½ cup pesto sauce: Infuses vibrant green flavor and herbaceous zing.
¼ cup organic vegetable stock or broth: Lightens the sauce while deepening flavor.
1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice: Adds bright citrus acidity to lift the flavors.
1 teaspoon lemon zest: Intensifies the lemon brightness without overpowering.
½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Melts into the sauce for a salty, nutty finish.
Chopped toasted walnuts or favorite nuts/seeds: A crunchy garnish that brings texture contrast and a toasty flavor.

How to Make Creamy Lemon Pesto Gnocchi with Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

Start by bringing a medium saucepan of water to a rolling boil. Gnocchi cook quickly, so once the water’s bubbling, toss them in and watch for them to float to the surface, usually within 4 to 5 minutes. This floating is your cue that they’re perfectly tender, almost like little pillows floating in the pan. Drain them well and set aside so they’re ready to soak up the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Broccoli or Broccolini

While the gnocchi is cooking, warm the olive oil in a 10-inch skillet over medium-high heat. Add your broccoli or broccolini and season with sea salt, black pepper, garlic powder, smoked paprika, dried basil, and oregano. The magic here is that quick sauté — just 3 to 4 minutes to get the veggies to soften slightly, darken with a hint of caramelization, yet still keep their vibrant green color and a bit of crunch. Then, take it off the heat to keep those flavors fresh and lively.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Lemon Pesto Sauce

In a larger 12-inch skillet, melt the unsalted butter over medium-high heat. Toss in the minced garlic and let it cook until it’s fragrant and just slightly golden, about 1 to 2 minutes. Then stir in the pesto sauce, heavy cream, vegetable stock, freshly squeezed lemon juice, and lemon zest, stirring continuously until the sauce is smooth and beautifully combined. Bring the mixture to a gentle bubble and let it simmer softly for another 1 to 2 minutes, allowing all the creamy, lemony flavors to meld. Finally, whisk in the Parmesan cheese, letting it melt and thicken the sauce until it shines with silkiness.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now comes the fun part — toss your drained gnocchi, sautéed broccoli or broccolini, and chopped kale right into that luscious sauce. Stir everything carefully but thoroughly, ensuring each gnocchi pillow is enveloped with creamy lemon pesto goodness, along with the fresh greens mingling perfectly. Let it heat through for just a couple minutes, then remove from the heat. The colors, smells, and textures in this pan alone make it impossible to wait until serving!

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Plate your dreamy, creamy lemon pesto gnocchi with broccoli and garnish generously with chopped toasted walnuts or your favorite nuts and seeds. This final crunch brings an irresistible texture and nutty aroma that elevates the whole experience. Now, dig in and savor every bite of this wonderfully bright yet comforting dish!

How to Serve Creamy Lemon Pesto Gnocchi with Broccoli Recipe

Garnishes

Adding a sprinkle of chopped toasted walnuts or your favorite nuts or seeds is a brilliant finishing touch. They offer a satisfying crunch that contrasts beautifully with the softness of gnocchi and the silkiness of the pesto cream sauce. Freshly shaved Parmesan or an extra lemon zest sprinkle can boost flavor vibrancy even more for those who crave bold tastes.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich and flavorful on its own, but if you want something extra alongside, a crisp green salad dressed in light vinaigrette or some crusty garlic bread make excellent accompaniments. A lightly roasted chicken or a handful of grilled shrimp could also turn this into a heartier meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For a stunning presentation, serve the creamy lemon pesto gnocchi with broccoli recipe in individual shallow bowls so guests can admire the colors and textures. Drizzle a bit of extra pesto sauce or lemon cream over the top and garnish with fresh basil leaves to enhance the dish’s visual appeal. For dinner parties, try plating with microgreens or edible flowers to bring a gourmet touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This creamy lemon pesto gnocchi with broccoli recipe keeps nicely in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may firm up slightly, but a gentle reheat will bring back that luxurious texture without losing flavor.

Freezing

While gnocchi dishes don’t freeze perfectly because of their delicate texture, you can freeze the sauce separately in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. When ready, thaw the sauce in the fridge overnight and gently reheat before tossing in freshly cooked gnocchi and broccoli.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream sauce from separating. Adding a splash of vegetable stock or cream helps restore the sauce’s smooth consistency. Avoid the microwave if possible to maintain the best texture and flavor.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought pesto for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought pesto works wonderfully and saves time, but if you have the chance to make your own fresh pesto, it brings a brighter, herb-fresh quality that’s truly special.

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you need a lighter option, full-fat coconut milk or a blend of cream and milk can be used, though this will slightly alter the richness and flavor profile of the sauce.

Can I use frozen broccoli or kale?

Yes, frozen broccoli or kale can be used if fresh isn’t available. Just be sure to thaw and drain them well so the sauce doesn’t become watery.

Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?

Definitely! This dish is vegetarian-friendly, especially if you use vegetable stock and avoid adding any meat or meat-based broths.

How can I make this vegan?

To make a vegan version, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream, use a vegan pesto, replace butter with olive oil or vegan butter, and omit the Parmesan or use a plant-based cheese alternative.

Final Thoughts

I can’t recommend this Creamy Lemon Pesto Gnocchi with Broccoli Recipe enough — it’s an absolute crowd-pleaser that feels like a hug in a bowl. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish marries comfort and freshness in the most delightful way. Give it a try, and I’m confident it will become one of your favorite recipes to turn to whenever you want something quick, easy, and incredibly tasty.