– **Title**: One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi
– **Ingredients**:
– 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup vegetable or chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream (or plant-based alternative)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, or use a dairy-free cheese)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Red pepper flakes (optional, for spice)
– Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
– **Instructions**:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
2. Add the broccoli florets to the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes until they are bright green and slightly tender.
3. Stir in the gnocchi and pour in the vegetable or chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cover with a lid. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the gnocchi float to the top and the broccoli is tender.
4. Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream. Stir in the Parmesan cheese, if using, and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste. Allow the sauce to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
5. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving. Enjoy your one pan broccoli gnocchi immediately!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi is super convenient, but you can make your own if you’re feeling adventurous! If you’re gluten-free, try using gluten-free gnocchi available in stores.
Broccoli: Fresh broccoli florets are great, but frozen ones work perfectly too. They save time and still taste delicious. You could replace broccoli with other veggies like spinach or asparagus for a different flavor.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps in cooking. If you want a different taste, you can substitute it with avocado oil or even butter for a richer flavor.
Heavy Cream: This gives creaminess to the dish. If you’re looking for a lighter alternative, use half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
Cheeses: Mozzarella is melty and creamy, while Parmesan adds a salty kick. If you’re looking for dairy-free cheese, there are many plant-based options now available!
How Do I Get the Perfectly Cooked Gnocchi?
The way you cook the gnocchi can really affect the dish. Here are some tips to ensure they turn out just right!
- Don’t overboil store-bought gnocchi. They usually only need 2-3 minutes in boiling water until they float.
- If making homemade, ensure your dough isn’t too moist. This can make the gnocchi heavy.
- When sautéing, don’t overcrowd the skillet. This allows for even cooking and helps create a nice texture.
One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Gnocchi Dish:
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups broccoli florets (fresh or frozen)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious one pan broccoli gnocchi takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to cook in the oven, totaling around 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and warm for baking the dish.
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large oven-safe skillet, pour in the olive oil and heat it over medium heat. Once it’s warm, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it smells amazing and fragrant.
3. Cook the Broccoli:
Next, toss in the broccoli florets. Give them a quick sauté for about 3-4 minutes until they are just tender but still bright green. This will bring out their flavor!
4. Mix in the Gnocchi:
Now, add the potato gnocchi to the skillet. Stir everything together so the gnocchi gets coated with the garlic and mixes well with the broccoli.
5. Add Cream and Seasoning:
Pour the heavy cream over the mixture and sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, along with some salt and pepper. Give it a good stir to combine everything nicely.
6. Add the Cheeses:
Take the skillet off the heat and sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the top. This will create a delicious cheesy layer when baked!
7. Bake It:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. Keep an eye on it until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown—this is the best part!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Once it’s baked, take it out of the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. To finish, sprinkle some fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color. Serve warm and enjoy your tasty one pan broccoli gnocchi!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw it before use; just toss it in the skillet as directed and cook! It may take a minute or two longer to become tender, so keep an eye on it.
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes, if you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Just be aware that the sauce may be slightly less creamy. If using milk, consider adding a tablespoon of flour to thicken it up.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it in the microwave or oven until heated through, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore some creaminess if desired.
What Else Can I Add to This Dish?
This recipe is quite versatile! You can add cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage for extra protein, or throw in other vegetables like bell peppers or spinach for added flavor and nutrition. Just make sure to adjust cooking times as needed.
