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.
Make Ahead Options
These One-Pan Gnocchi are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can chop the vegetables (cherry tomatoes, bell pepper, and zucchini) and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This ensures they’re fresh and ready to go when you need a quick meal. Additionally, you can also prepare the garlic and Italian seasoning in advance and mix them together for easy access. When you’re ready to enjoy your gnocchi, simply heat olive oil in your skillet, add the prepped veggies, and follow the cooking steps as usual. This way, you’ll have a delicious, comforting meal on the table in no time, making busy weeknights a breeze!
One-Pan Gnocchi Variations
Feel free to make this One-Pan Gnocchi your own with these delightful twists and substitutions!
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Vegetarian Boost: Add fresh spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and vibrant color.
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Protein-Packed: Toss in cooked chicken, sausage, or chickpeas to transform this dish into a heartier meal that’s sure to satisfy your hunger.
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Cheesy Delight: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan or mozzarella cheese just before serving for a creamy indulgence that melts beautifully with the veggies.
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Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a touch of heat that elevates the flavor profile of this comforting dish.
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Pasta Alternative: Swap out gnocchi for penne or farfalle for a completely different take. Just remember to adjust the cooking time and water accordingly.
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Herb Infusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano to give your dish a fresh, garden-inspired flair that brightens each bite.
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Creamy Texture: For a rich twist, mix in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of cream cheese right before serving for a luscious sauce.
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Nutty Flavor: Garnish with toasted pine nuts or walnuts for a delightful crunch and wholesome flavor that complements the vegetables beautifully.
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!
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
How do I choose ripe ingredients for One-Pan Gnocchi?
Absolutely! For the best results, select vibrant cherry tomatoes that are plump and firm—look for those with smooth skin without dark spots. For the bell pepper, a fresh, shiny one without blemishes will ensure natural sweetness. As for zucchini, it should feel slightly firm, avoiding overly soft or wrinkled pieces.
What’s the best way to store leftovers of One-Pan Gnocchi?
To keep your delicious One-Pan Gnocchi fresh, store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Ensuring it’s tightly sealed minimizes air exposure, preserving its flavors and textures. You can reheat it on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to maintain moisture!
Can I freeze One-Pan Gnocchi?
Very much so! If you want to save some for later, freeze the One-Pan Gnocchi in a well-sealed container or freezer bag for up to 2 months. To do this, let the dish cool completely first, then portion it out into containers. Don’t forget to label them for easy access later! Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
What should I do if my gnocchi gets mushy while cooking?
If your gnocchi turns out mushy, it may have been overcooked or the skillet was too crowded, leading to steaming instead of sautéing. To avoid this in the future, keep a close eye on the cooking time, checking for doneness around the 5-minute mark. If you’d like to try again, ensure a heated skillet allows for optimal sautéing!
Are there any dietary considerations for One-Pan Gnocchi?
Absolutely! One-Pan Gnocchi is naturally vegetarian, making it a great option for those avoiding meat. However, if you or your guests have allergies or dietary restrictions, it’s wise to check ingredient labels, especially for seasonings. If you’re serving this dish to pets, keep the garlic and seasoning away, as they can be harmful to them.
Equipment
- Large skillet
Ingredients
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 Adds a burst of sweetness and color that brightens every bite.
- 1 piece bell pepper Contributes a crunchy texture and a sweet, earthy flavor to the dish.
- 1 piece zucchini Offers a mild, fresh taste and pairs perfectly with the other ingredients.
For the Seasoning
- 2 cloves garlic 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.
- to taste salt Essential for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
- to taste pepper Essential for bringing out the flavors of all the ingredients.
For Garnish
- 1 bunch fresh basil A fragrant finishing touch that adds freshness and vibrancy to the dish.
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- Begin by warming up 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add 1 cup of halved cherry tomatoes, 1 diced bell pepper, and 1 sliced zucchini. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until they soften.
- Toss in 2 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning. Stir for 1 minute until the garlic is fragrant.
- Add 16 oz of gnocchi along with 1 cup of water. Gently stir to ensure everything is combined.
- Cover the skillet and let it cook for 5-8 minutes until the gnocchi is tender.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to incorporate all flavors.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
