Creamy Gnocchi and Broccoli Bake Recipe

Introduction

This Gnocchi Broccoli Bake is a comforting and creamy dish perfect for a cozy dinner. It combines tender gnocchi, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce baked until golden and bubbly.

Ingredients

• 500g gnocchi
• 300g broccoli, cut into florets
• 1 cup cream
• 1 cup shredded cheese (such as mozzarella or cheddar)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 180°C (350°F). Bring a pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, usually until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
2. Step 2: Steam or blanch the broccoli florets until just tender, about 3-4 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. Step 3: In a baking dish, combine the cooked gnocchi and broccoli. Pour the cream over the top and sprinkle evenly with the shredded cheese.
4. Step 4: Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden on top. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

• For extra flavor, add minced garlic or sautéed onions to the cream before pouring it over the gnocchi and broccoli.
• Try mixing in cooked bacon or sausage for a meaty version.
• Use a blend of cheeses like Parmesan and Gruyere for a richer taste.
• To make it lighter, substitute half the cream with milk or use a low-fat cheese.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 160°C (320°F) until warmed through or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally to ensure even heating.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen broccoli for this bake?

Yes, frozen broccoli works well. Just thaw and drain it before mixing with the gnocchi to avoid excess moisture.

How can I make this dish vegan?

Use plant-based cream and vegan cheese alternatives. Also, ensure that the gnocchi you choose contains no eggs or dairy.

Creamy Gnocchi and Broccoli Bake Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

4.7 from 107 reviews

A comforting and creamy Gnocchi Broccoli Bake that combines tender gnocchi, fresh broccoli, and a rich cheese sauce, baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or a satisfying vegetarian meal.

• Author: Dylan
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Gnocchi Bake Ingredients

• 500g potato gnocchi
• 300g broccoli florets
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the broccoli: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Steam or blanch the broccoli florets for 3-4 minutes until bright green and slightly tender, then drain and set aside.
2. Cook the gnocchi: Boil a large pot of salted water. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, typically 2-3 minutes, until they float to the surface. Drain the gnocchi and set aside.
3. Make the creamy sauce: In a large mixing bowl, combine the heavy cream, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Stir in half of the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses.
4. Combine ingredients: Gently fold the cooked gnocchi and broccoli into the creamy cheese mixture until evenly coated.
5. Assemble the bake: Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil. Transfer the gnocchi and broccoli mixture into the dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
6. Bake: Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
7. Serve: Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy warm as a hearty vegetarian main or comforting side dish.

Notes

• You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version, but the sauce will be less rich.
• Add cooked bacon or sausage for a non-vegetarian version.
• For extra crunch, sprinkle breadcrumbs on top before baking.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheat in the oven to maintain crispiness; microwaving may make the gnocchi soggy.

Keywords: gnocchi bake, broccoli bake, cheesy gnocchi, vegetarian pasta bake, creamy gnocchi recipe