There’s a certain joy that fills my kitchen when I decide to whip up something simple yet delicious. The first time I made One-Pan Gnocchi, I had just returned from a long day, and all I wanted was a warm, comforting meal without the fuss of multiple pots and pans. Little did I know, this dish would become one of my go-to favorites for busy weeknights!
As the vibrant colors of cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, and zucchini dance in the skillet, the aromas of garlic and Italian seasoning swirl through the air, awakening my senses. This easy recipe takes just 25 minutes from start to finish, making it the perfect solution for anyone looking to escape the monotonous cycle of fast food. With one bite, you’ll savor the chewy, pillowy goodness of gnocchi paired with fresh veggies, all beautifully finished with a sprinkle of aromatic basil.
Join me as we dive into this culinary delight that promises satisfaction without the hassle, turning even the simplest of evenings into a delightful dining experience!
Why You'll Love This One-Pan Gnocchi
- This One-Pan Gnocchi recipe brings incredible ease to your weeknight cooking, allowing you to create a delicious meal without the hassle of multiple dishes.
- The explosion of flavors from the fresh vegetables and Italian seasoning will elevate your dining experience and leave your taste buds dancing with delight.
- Its versatility means you can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or add protein to customize it to your liking.
- Visually appealing with its vibrant colors, this dish is sure to impress family and friends, making it a perfect crowd-pleaser for any occasion.
One-Pan Gnocchi Ingredients
Transform your dinner with this delightful One-Pan Gnocchi recipe!
For the Gnocchi
• 16 oz gnocchi – The star of this dish, providing a delightful, chewy texture that absorbs flavors beautifully.
For the Vegetables
• 2 tablespoons olive oil – Enhances the flavors of the veggies while offering a healthy fat source.
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved – Adds a burst of sweetness and color that brightens every bite.
• 1 bell pepper, diced – Contributes a crunchy texture and a sweet, earthy flavor to the dish.
• 1 zucchini, sliced – Offers a mild, fresh taste and pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
For the Seasoning
• 2 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the dish with aromatic depth and enhances its overall flavor.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend that brings warmth and herbaceous notes, making this dish truly comforting.
• Salt and pepper to taste – Essential for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
For Garnish
• Fresh basil – A fragrant finishing touch that adds freshness and vibrancy to the dish.
How to Make One-Pan Gnocchi
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Heat your skillet: Begin by warming up 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. This will create a rich base for all the delicious flavors to develop.
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Sauté the vegetables: Next, add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 diced bell pepper, and 1 sliced zucchini. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes until they soften and brighten in color.
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Add flavorings: Toss in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir for 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant, making your kitchen smell divine!
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Combine the gnocchi: Now, add the magic of 16 oz of gnocchi along with 1 cup of water. Gently stir to ensure everything is combined and the gnocchi is nestled among the veggies.
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Cover and cook: Place a lid on your skillet and let it cook for 5-8 minutes until the gnocchi is tender and puffs up, soaking in all those wonderful flavors.
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Season to taste: After cooking, season with salt and pepper. Give it a good stir to incorporate all the flavors before serving it up.
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Garnish with love: Finish your dish by garnishing with fresh basil leaves, adding a pop of color and a fresh taste that elevates your meal.
Optional: Drizzle with balsamic glaze for an added layer of flavor.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
One-Pan Gnocchi Variations
Feel free to put your own spin on this delicious One-Pan Gnocchi recipe by exploring these fun variations!
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Vegetable Medley: Swap in your favorite seasonal veggies, such as spinach or asparagus, for a fresh twist. Enjoy the extra seasonal flavor!
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Cheesy Delight: Add shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese towards the end to melt into the gnocchi for a creamy, cheesy finish. Each bite will be transformed into a comforting delight!
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Protein Boost: Mix in cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas for added protein, turning this dish into a heartier meal. This makes it ideal for satisfying those hunger pangs!
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Spicy Kick: Toss in some red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, elevating the dish with a fiery flavor that brings excitement to your palate. It’s perfect for spice lovers who enjoy a bit of daring.
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Lemon Zest: Garnish with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest to brighten the dish. The citrus notes will uplift and complement the robust flavors perfectly.
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi and check that your veggies and seasonings are gluten-free to accommodate dietary restrictions. Your meal can be both satisfying and suitable for everyone!
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with different herbs like thyme or rosemary in place of Italian seasoning. This will create a unique aromatic profile that delights the senses.
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Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or a dollop of sour cream towards the end to create a richer, creamier sauce. This indulgent change will make your gnocchi feel like an exquisite treat!
How to Store and Freeze One-Pan Gnocchi
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh while preventing spoilage.
Freezer: If you have extra One-Pan Gnocchi, freeze it in a well-sealed container for up to 2 months. Make sure to label the container for easy identification.
Reheating: To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge, then warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist. This will bring back that delicious texture!
Make Ahead Options
One-Pan Gnocchi is an ideal recipe for busy cooks looking to save time during the week! You can chop the bell pepper and zucchini, and halve the cherry tomatoes up to 3 days in advance. Store the prepped veggies in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh and crisp. Additionally, you can measure out the olive oil and Italian seasoning ahead of time, making the cooking process even smoother. When it’s time to serve, simply heat the oil in a skillet, add in the prepped vegetables, and follow the remaining steps. This ensure the flavors remain vibrant, delivering just as delicious results with minimal effort!
What to Serve with One-Pan Gnocchi?
Nothing brings friends and family together like a well-prepared meal, and here’s how to create a delightful spread around your One-Pan Gnocchi.
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Garlic Bread: This classic pairing adds a crunchy texture and sorbs the delicious sauce, ensuring no flavor goes wasted. A side of warm, buttery garlic bread brings comfort and completes the meal beautifully.
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Mixed Green Salad: Tossed with a zesty vinaigrette, it provides freshness and balances the comforting richness of the gnocchi. Crisp greens and colorful veggies create a refreshing contrast to the hearty dish.
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Roasted Broccoli: The nuttiness from roasted broccoli complements the flavors of the One-Pan Gnocchi while adding vibrant green color to the plate. The slight char enhances the overall taste, making everyone reach for seconds!
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Italian Sausage: Browned and sliced alongside your gnocchi brings an irresistible savory depth to your meal. The seasoned meat pairs beautifully with the dish’s flavors, creating an unforgettable dining experience.
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White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio enhances the meal, with its bright acidity cutting through the richness. Its crisp notes uplift the entire dinner, turning it into a feasting occasion.
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Tiramisu: For dessert, this classic Italian treat offers a sweet finish. The creamy mascarpone layers and coffee-soaked sponge create a delightful contrast to the savory meal, leaving everyone satisfied and happy.
Each of these pairings elevates your One-Pan Gnocchi into a complete and memorable dining experience, leaving taste buds singing long after the meal is over!
Chef's Helpful Tips
- When making One-Pan Gnocchi, ensure your skillet is adequately heated before adding the olive oil to achieve that perfect sauté on your vegetables.
- Avoid overcrowding the skillet with too many ingredients at once, as this can lead to steaming instead of sautéing, preventing that nice caramelization.
- For the gnocchi, stir gently but consistently to avoid breaking them apart while they cook and soak up the flavors.
- Keep an eye on the cooking time and test the gnocchi for doneness at the 5-minute mark to guarantee they remain tender and not mushy.
One-Pan Gnocchi Recipe FAQs
What’s the best way to select ripe vegetables for this recipe?
Absolutely! When choosing cherry tomatoes, look for ones that are firm and plump, with a vibrant red color. Bell peppers should be smooth, shiny, and free of blemishes, while zucchini should feel heavy for its size and have no dark spots. Picking vegetables at their peak ripeness will enhance the flavors in your One-Pan Gnocchi.
How should I store leftover One-Pan Gnocchi?
Very! To keep your One-Pan Gnocchi fresh, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Always ensure it’s well-sealed to maintain its delightful flavor and texture.
Can I freeze One-Pan Gnocchi, and how do I do it?
Absolutely! If you want to freeze your One-Pan Gnocchi, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Make sure to label it with the date! It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the fridge and reheat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed, for about 5-7 minutes.
What if my gnocchi is stuck together or mushy after cooking?
No worries! If your gnocchi clump together, it could be due to overcrowding the pan or not enough water. Next time, try to stir it gently. If it’s mushy, be careful to check for doneness around the 5-minute mark. Cooking it a bit less should help achieve that perfect tender texture without it turning to mush.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind for this dish?
Absolutely! For those with gluten sensitivities, opt for gluten-free gnocchi. If you’re looking to make this dish vegetarian, it’s all set! However, if you plan to share it with pets, keep in mind that garlic can be toxic to dogs, so make sure they stick to their pet food!
What can I substitute for the vegetables if I don’t have any on hand?
The more the merrier! You can swap in any of your favorite veggies, such as spinach, asparagus, or mushrooms. Feel free to get creative and use what you have in your fridge! Just adjust the cooking time slightly as some veggies may cook faster than others to keep everything perfectly tender.
Equipment
- Large skillet
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi
- 16 oz gnocchi The star of this dish, providing a delightful, chewy texture.
For the Vegetables
- 2 tablespoons olive oil Enhances the flavors of the veggies.
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes Adds a burst of sweetness and color.
- 1 whole bell pepper Contributes a crunchy texture and sweet, earthy flavor.
- 1 whole zucchini Offers a mild, fresh taste.
For the Seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic Infuses the dish with aromatic depth.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning Brings warmth and herbaceous notes.
- salt and pepper To taste.
For Garnish
- fresh basil A fragrant finishing touch.
Instructions
How to Make One-Pan Gnocchi
- Heat your skillet: Begin by warming up 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the vegetables: Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 diced bell pepper, and 1 sliced zucchini. Cook for about 5-7 minutes.
- Add flavorings: Toss in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir for 1 minute.
- Combine the gnocchi: Add 16 oz of gnocchi and 1 cup of water. Stir to combine.
- Cover and cook: Place a lid on your skillet and cook for 5-8 minutes.
- Season to taste: After cooking, season with salt and pepper and stir.
- Garnish with love: Finish by garnishing with fresh basil leaves.
