Effortless Italian Delights: A Wholesome Twist on Classic Comfort!
Dive into the delightful world of Quick Pesto & Broccoli Cheesy Gnocchi Pasta, a dish that combines the rich heritage of Italian cuisine with the health benefits of vibrant, nutritious vegetables. Originating from Italy, gnocchi is a beloved pasta made primarily from potatoes and flour. This classic comfort food has been enjoyed in various forms across regions, often paired with a range of sauces and ingredients that highlight its versatile and delightful texture.
Our Quick Pesto & Broccoli Cheesy Gnocchi Pasta recipe is designed for those hectic nights when you crave something delicious yet straightforward to prepare. This dish boasts a creamy, cheesy sauce enriched with the green goodness of broccoli—a powerhouse of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that support overall health and well-being. Broccoli is not only great for enhancing your immune system but also provides fiber that aids in digestion.
The process is as simple as it is quick. Start by sautéing fresh or frozen broccoli until vibrant and just tender, ensuring they retain their nutrients and crisp texture. Meanwhile, a roux of butter and flour blended with milk forms the base of our rich cheese sauce. A generous helping of pesto adds a burst of flavor that complements the mellow sweetness of the broccoli perfectly.
As for the gnocchi, these delightful dumplings cook up in minutes, floating to the top of your pot to signal they’re done, ready to be enveloped in the creamy sauce. The final touch of melted cheese binds all the elements together into a dish that’s comforting, fulfilling, and bursting with flavor.
Whether you’re a busy professional looking for a quick dinner solution or a home cook seeking a new favorite, this Quick Pesto & Broccoli Cheesy Gnocchi Pasta is sure to satisfy. It’s a testament to how fast and easy gourmet can be—bringing a slice of Italian culinary tradition to your table in under 30 minutes. So why not bring a little Italian flair to your mealtime with a dish that’s as easy to make as it is delicious and healthy? Enjoy creating a meal that’s sure to become a new staple in your cooking repertoire!
✅ Quick Tips: For an extra touch of flavor, you can sauté some garlic in the butter before adding the flour. Also, if you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the milk with vegetable broth.
Description
Ingredients
Instructions
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Prepare the Broccoli:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the broccoli florets and cook for about 3-4 minutes until just tender. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside. Keep the water boiling for the gnocchi.
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Make the Cheese Sauce:
- In a large pan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and stir for about 2 minutes until the mixture is lightly golden and nutty-smelling, making sure not to let it burn.
- Gradually whisk in the milk, breaking up any lumps, and bring to a boil. Continue to cook and stir until the sauce thickens, about 5-7 minutes.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the grated cheese until melted and smooth.
- Add the finely chopped or ground broccoli and pesto sauce to the cheese sauce. Stir to combine everything evenly. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Cook the Gnocchi:
In the same boiling water used for the broccoli, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, usually 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Drain well.
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Combine and Serve:
- Add the drained gnocchi to the sauce, gently folding to coat the gnocchi evenly with the creamy pesto and broccoli sauce.
- Serve hot, garnished with extra cheese or a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
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Serve hot ♨ and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Servings 1
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 528kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 22g34%
- Saturated Fat 9g45%
- Cholesterol 44mg15%
- Sodium 580mg25%
- Potassium 300mg9%
- Total Carbohydrate 66g22%
- Dietary Fiber 4g16%
- Sugars 9g
- Protein 18g36%
- Calcium 330 mg
- Iron 3 mg
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
Here are some tips to ensure the Quick Pesto & Broccoli Cheesy Gnocchi Pasta turns out perfectly:
- Pre-cook broccoli briefly to retain its vibrant color and crunch.
- Stir flour and butter mixture well to avoid lumps before adding milk for a smooth sauce.
- Gradually add cheese to the sauce on low heat to prevent it from becoming grainy.
- Drain gnocchi immediately after they float to the top to avoid overcooking.
- Add pesto last to preserve its fresh flavor and vibrant color in the dish.
- Adjust seasoning after adding pesto, as it can be salty.
- Serve immediately for best texture and taste, as gnocchi can absorb the sauce if left to sit.
These tips will help you maximize flavor and achieve the ideal texture for a deliciously satisfying meal.
