If you are pressed for time but crave something comfortingly delicious, this 30 Minute One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi Recipe is the ultimate answer. Imagine tender, pillowy gnocchi swimming in a creamy, cheesy sauce, paired with vibrant, crisp broccoli all cooked in one pan to make your cleanup a breeze. It’s a warm, homey dish that brings together textures and flavors with minimal fuss, making it perfect for busy weeknights or whenever you want a hearty meal without the hassle.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering just a handful of simple, quality ingredients is key to nailing this dish. Each item plays an essential role, whether bringing creaminess, fresh veggies, or that golden crust you’ll love.
- Shelf-stable gnocchi: The star of the dish, ready to soak up all the creamy goodness.
- Olive oil: Adds richness and helps achieve that beautiful golden color on the gnocchi.
- Broccoli florets: Bring a fresh crunch and vibrant color while providing a healthy balance.
- Vegetable stock: Adds depth to the sauce without overpowering the delicate flavors.
- Cream cheese: Gives the sauce its silky, indulgent texture.
- Grated mozzarella: Melts perfectly to create a luscious, cheesy topping.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and enhancing all the flavors.
How to Make 30 Minute One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Blanch the Broccoli
Start by bringing a pot of salted water to a boil, then add the broccoli florets. Blanch them for 3-5 minutes until they turn tender but retain a delightful crispness. Rinse under cold water to stop the cooking and keep that bright green color vibrant. Setting the broccoli aside here ensures it stays fresh and perfectly textured for when you mix everything together later.
Step 2: Prepare the Gnocchi
Next, in an oven-safe dish, heat the olive oil over medium heat until it shimmers invitingly. Add the gnocchi and toss them gently in the oil, allowing them to brown just a little for about 2 minutes. This step is magic: it adds a light, crispy crust that contrasts beautifully with the creamy sauce to come.
Step 3: Make the Sauce
Pour the vegetable stock into the same pan and bring it to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cream cheese until it melts smoothly and combines with the stock, creating a silky, flavorful sauce. Then mix in half of the grated mozzarella, stirring until it melts and blends perfectly. Taste now, and add salt and pepper as needed — this is where your sauce truly sings.
Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Return the blanched broccoli to the pan, gently folding it in to coat every floret with that luscious cheesy sauce. Scatter the remaining mozzarella over the top to create a tempting layer of melting cheese that promises gooey, golden perfection when finished.
Step 5: Grill to Perfection
Place the oven-safe dish under the grill for about 5 minutes. Watch as the mozzarella melts, turns golden, and bubbles up to create an irresistible crust. This finishing touch adds texture and a visually stunning golden finish that will have everyone eager to dig in.
Step 6: Serve
Optionally, sprinkle some freshly grated parmesan cheese before serving to add an extra punch of savory flavor. Now, it’s time to enjoy your masterpiece!
How to Serve 30 Minute One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or chopped fresh herbs like parsley or chives brightens each bite and adds a pop of color. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can also enhance the richness and bring everything together.
Side Dishes
This dish is wonderfully satisfying on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or some roasted cherry tomatoes. For a heartier meal, garlic bread or a simple soup also work wonderfully alongside to round out the dinner.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve this delightful gnocchi straight from the pan for a rustic feel that invites everyone to dig in family-style. Or, plate individual portions with a flourish of microgreens or edible flowers to impress guests with your gourmet touch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover 30 Minute One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 3 days, making it an excellent option for quick lunches or dinner the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze this dish if you want to prepare it in advance. Transfer cooled portions into freezer-safe containers or bags, ensuring as much air is removed as possible. It should keep well for up to 2 months. To enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
For the best texture, reheat leftover gnocchi gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can alter the creamy texture. A quick flash under the grill after reheating restores some of that lovely bubbly cheese finish.
FAQs
Can I use frozen broccoli instead of fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen broccoli works just fine when blanched properly. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well before adding it to keep the sauce from becoming watery.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
Yes! Swap the cream cheese for a dairy-free alternative and use vegan mozzarella in place of regular cheese. The texture will be slightly different but still delightfully creamy and flavorful.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely. Adding cooked chicken, sausage, or even chickpeas is a great way to boost protein and make this gnocchi recipe even more filling.
What type of gnocchi should I use?
Shelf-stable gnocchi works wonderfully here, but fresh gnocchi also makes for an excellent, slightly softer texture if you prefer to make your own or buy fresh from the store.
How do I prevent the gnocchi from sticking together?
Coating the gnocchi in olive oil before cooking and stirring gently during cooking will help keep them separate. Also, avoid overcrowding the pan to ensure they brown evenly.
Final Thoughts
This 30 Minute One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi Recipe is a perfect example of how simple ingredients and thoughtful technique come together to create a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish. Whether you’re a busy home cook or just want a cozy meal with minimal cleanup, give this recipe a try — it’s bound to become one of your quick dinner favorites.
Print
30 Minute One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This 30 Minute One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi recipe offers a creamy, comforting meal featuring tender broccoli florets and golden gnocchi tossed in a rich cheese sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it combines ease of preparation with deliciously satisfying flavors.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 500 g (1 lb) shelf-stable gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 180 g (2 cups) broccoli, cut into florets
- 250 ml (1 cup) vegetable stock (1 stock cube dissolved in 250 ml boiling water)
- 125 g (½ cup) cream cheese
- 200 g (1 ⅔ cups) grated mozzarella
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Blanch the Broccoli: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and blanch for 3-5 minutes until tender but still crisp. Drain and rinse under cold water, then set aside.
- Prepare the Gnocchi: In an oven-safe dish, heat the olive oil over medium heat until shimmering, about 3 minutes. Add the gnocchi and toss to coat in the oil, cooking until golden, about 2 minutes.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in the vegetable stock and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in the cream cheese until melted and combined with the stock, forming a creamy sauce. Mix in half of the grated mozzarella and stir until melted. Taste and adjust the seasoning.
- Combine Ingredients: Add the blanched broccoli to the pan and stir to coat with the creamy sauce. Scatter the remaining mozzarella over the top.
- Grill: Place the dish under the grill for about 5 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and the sauce is bubbling at the edges.
- Serve: Optionally, sprinkle with parmesan cheese before serving for added flavor.
Notes
- Variations: Substitute vegetable stock with chicken stock and add leftover chicken for a protein boost.
- Extra Veggies: Enhance this dish by adding mushrooms, courgette (zucchini), frozen peas, or sweetcorn for added nutrition and volume.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
