30-Minute One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi – Easy Comfort Food

Name: 30 Minute One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb gnocchi (fresh or store-bought); 2 cups broccoli florets; 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup low-sodium vegetable broth; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and pepper to taste

Published: September 9, 2025

by mimi

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This quick and easy one-pan dish simplifies meal prep while delivering a burst of delightful flavors
It’s colorful and inviting, making it a feast for both the eyes and the palate
Versatile enough for any occasion, this recipe can easily be modified to suit your pantry staples or dietary preferences

Sharing this recipe with friends led to my daughter declaring me “the best chef ever” – I’m still riding that wave of glory!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Gnocchi: Fresh or store-bought works wonders; just ensure they are fluffy for that melt-in-your-mouth experience.
Broccoli Florets: Fresh broccoli brightens up the dish; look for vibrant green florets without yellowing.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for its robust flavor and health benefits; it adds richness to the dish.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves elevate the taste; choose firm bulbs for maximum flavor.
Vegetable Broth: Low-sodium broth balances flavors without overpowering; it’s essential for creating that luscious sauce.
Parmesan Cheese: Grated or shaved, cheese adds creaminess and depth; don’t skimp on this crucial ingredient!
Red Pepper Flakes: Optional but recommended if you crave a hint of heat; sprinkle according to your spice tolerance.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Recipe preparation for 30 Minute One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi

How to Make 30 Minute One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi

Begin by heating your olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering—this usually takes about 1-2 minutes. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, which should take around 30 seconds—you’re looking for that irresistible garlicky aroma.

Next up, toss in your broccoli florets along with salt and pepper. Sauté until they turn bright green and slightly tender, approximately 3-4 minutes. You’re aiming for vibrant color here—if it looks like a sad shade of green, you’re doing it wrong!

Now it’s time to add the gnocchi directly into the pan with the sautéed broccoli. Pour in vegetable broth and stir gently; let everything simmer together until the gnocchi floats. This should take about 5-7 minutes—watching those dumplings dance around is half the fun.

Once everything has cooked down nicely, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top. Stir until melted and creamy—this usually takes another minute or so—and voila! Your delicious one-pan creation is ready.

For an extra kick of flavor if you’re feeling adventurous, toss in red pepper flakes during cooking or right before serving. It’s like adding confetti to your culinary masterpiece!

With these steps completed, serve hot straight from the pan or transfer to bowls if you want that fancy restaurant vibe at home. Just remember to sprinkle some more Parmesan on top—it’s like icing on a cake!

Enjoy every bite as you relish this delightful meal packed with flavor, texture, and love!

You Must Know

This delightful 30 Minute One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi is perfect for busy weeknights
The combination of chewy gnocchi and tender broccoli makes it a crowd-pleaser
With minimal cleanup, you’ll have more time to enjoy your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by sautéing garlic and onions in olive oil for flavor, then add broccoli. Cook until bright green before adding the gnocchi and broth. Let it simmer until everything is perfectly tender and infused with deliciousness.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap out broccoli for any veggie you love, or add protein like chicken or chickpeas. Experiment with spices like red pepper flakes or lemon zest for an extra kick that can elevate this dish beyond your wildest dreams.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply toss everything back in a pan with a splash of broth on medium heat until warmed through.

Chef's Helpful Tips

This 30 Minute One Pan Broccoli Gnocchi shines with fresh ingredients; don’t skip on quality!
Always taste as you go; your palate knows best
If you’re short on time, pre-cooked gnocchi saves precious minutes without sacrificing flavor

When I first made this dish for my friends, they gobbled it up so fast I thought they were competing in an Olympic eating contest! Their laughter filled my kitchen, turning a simple meal into a cherished memory.

FAQ

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works great; just adjust cooking time as needed.

What can I substitute if I don’t have broccoli?

Feel free to use spinach, zucchini, or even bell peppers instead of broccoli.

How do I make this dish vegan?

Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth and omit any cheese toppings.

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📖 Recipe Card