Cheesy Broccoli Gnocchi Skillet 🧀 One-Pan Wonder (Ready in 25 Min!)
Highlighted under: Comfort Food
Whip up a creamy, dreamy dish in no time with this Cheesy Broccoli Gnocchi Skillet! Perfectly cooked gnocchi, tender broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce come together in just 25 minutes for a delicious one-pan meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe is sure to please the whole family. Enjoy the comforting flavors of cheesy goodness and vibrant greens in every bite!
Quick and Easy One-Pan Meal
In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a healthy dinner can be challenging. That's why our Cheesy Broccoli Gnocchi Skillet is the perfect solution for busy weeknights. With just one pan and 25 minutes, you can have a wholesome meal on the table that doesn't require hours of preparation. This dish simplifies cooking without sacrificing flavor or nutrition, making it an ideal choice for families.
The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. Gnocchi, which cooks in just a few minutes, marries beautifully with fresh broccoli and a luscious cheese sauce. This combination creates a delightful experience that allows even the busiest of cooks to feel like culinary stars in their own kitchens.
Versatile and Customizable
One of the standout features of the Cheesy Broccoli Gnocchi Skillet is its versatility. While broccoli adds a lovely texture and color, you can easily substitute it with your favorite vegetables. Spinach, peas, or even roasted bell peppers can work wonderfully, allowing you to tailor the dish to your family's preferences or your pantry's contents.
Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese. While cheddar and mozzarella are popular choices, feel free to mix and match with gouda, pepper jack, or even a sprinkle of parmesan for added depth of flavor. The end result will always be a comforting dish that appeals to a wide range of palates.
Perfect for Meal Prep
This Cheesy Broccoli Gnocchi Skillet is not only delicious but also fantastic for meal prep. You can cook a larger batch and store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Simply reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave for a quick and satisfying meal when time is tight during the week.
To make meal prep even more efficient, cook a double batch of gnocchi on a weekend and freeze half. When you're ready to whip up this one-pan wonder, just thaw the gnocchi, add the veggies and sauce, and you'll have a fantastic dinner ready in minutes.
Ingredients
Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Gnocchi Skillet
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
These ingredients come together to create a delicious one-pan meal!
Instructions
Cook the Gnocchi
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Broccoli
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and sauté until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
Make the Cheese Sauce
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes, then gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Combine and Serve
Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss to coat in the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese if desired.
Enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!
Serving Suggestions
To elevate your Cheesy Broccoli Gnocchi Skillet, consider adding protein to the mix. Grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or cooked sausage can enhance the dish and make it more filling. Pairing it with a light salad or garlic bread can also round out the meal, giving your family a complete dining experience.
For an extra touch of flavor, you might drizzle a little balsamic glaze over the finished dish or garnish it with fresh herbs, like basil or parsley. These additions not only enhance aesthetics but also provide a burst of freshness that complements the rich cheese sauce.
Nutritional Benefits
This Cheesy Broccoli Gnocchi Skillet not only satisfies your taste buds but also offers various nutritional benefits. Broccoli is rich in vitamins C and K, and it provides a good source of dietary fiber. Including greens in your meals can support better digestion and overall health while keeping your meal colorful and appealing.
Using heavy cream in moderation adds a creamy texture, but you can substitute it with lighter options like Greek yogurt or low-fat milk if you're looking to reduce calories. This dish easily accommodates various dietary needs without compromising on taste, making it a family favorite for everyone.
Storage and Reheating Tips
When storing leftovers, it's crucial to let the dish cool down before placing it in the fridge. Use airtight containers to keep your Cheesy Broccoli Gnocchi Skillet fresh for up to three days. If you want to store it longer, consider freezing individual portions, which can last up to a month.
To reheat, thaw any frozen portions in the fridge overnight. Gently warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream to restore creaminess. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking. Enjoying this delicious skillet meal is as easy as restaurant takeout, right from your home!
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. Just cook them according to the package instructions.
→ What other vegetables can I add?
You can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or peas for added nutrients and flavor.
Cheesy Broccoli Gnocchi Skillet 🧀 One-Pan Wonder (Ready in 25 Min!)
Whip up a creamy, dreamy dish in no time with this Cheesy Broccoli Gnocchi Skillet! Perfectly cooked gnocchi, tender broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce come together in just 25 minutes for a delicious one-pan meal. Ideal for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, this recipe is sure to please the whole family. Enjoy the comforting flavors of cheesy goodness and vibrant greens in every bite!
Created by: Harper Collins
Recipe Type: Comfort Food
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4.0
What You'll Need
Ingredients for Cheesy Broccoli Gnocchi Skillet
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 2 cups broccoli florets
- 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add the broccoli florets and sauté until tender, about 3-5 minutes.
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow it to simmer for a couple of minutes, then gradually add the shredded cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss to coat in the cheese sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with additional cheese if desired.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450