5 Ingredient One-Pan Baked Gnocchi & Broccoli (Vegan)

My Baked Gnocchi with Broccoli recipe is truly magical. You only need 5 simple ingredients for a comforting, vegetable-loaded weeknight dinner that the whole family will love. It is ridiculously easy and I know that this recipe and your own variations of it will become part of your family's weekly rotation. This bake recipe is the healthy, quick, and simple main course you have been looking for!

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This sheet pan gnocchi will become one of your family's favorites because it is:

• Packed with vegetables
• Versatile
• Made with pantry staples
• A complete meal on one sheet pan
• Quick to prepare (less than 5 minutes)
• A comforting meal
• Savory
• Vegan

Let's explore the health benefits of the main ingredients in 5-ingredient Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Broccoli:

1. Mushrooms:
   • Nutrient-Rich: Mushrooms are a low-calorie food that provides essential nutrients, including B-vitamins, selenium, and copper.
   • Antioxidants: Mushrooms contain antioxidants, such as ergothioneine and glutathione, which help combat oxidative stress in the body.
   • Immune Support: Some mushrooms, like shiitake, may have immune-boosting properties.
2. Potato Gnocchi:
   • Source of Energy: Gnocchi, made from potatoes, is a starchy component that provides a good source of energy.
   • Vitamins and Minerals: Potatoes offer important nutrients like vitamin C, vitamin B6, potassium, and fiber.
   • Any store-bought gnocchi is a good choice for this recipe. Shelf-stable gnocchi, frozen gnocchi, or refrigerated gnocchi can be used. 
3. Broccoli:
   • High in Nutrients: Broccoli is rich in vitamins C, K, and A, as well as folate and fiber.
   • Antioxidants: It contains various antioxidants, including sulforaphane, which has been linked to potential health benefits.
   • Fiber: The fiber content supports digestive health and helps with feelings of fullness.
   • You can use fresh or frozen broccoli for this dish. Many people do not realize that frozen broccoli can be roasted!
4. Basil Pesto:
   • Heart-Healthy Fats: Pesto, typically made with olive oil and pine nuts, provides heart-healthy monounsaturated fats and polyunsaturated fats.
   • Herbs and Garlic: Basil and garlic, common ingredients in pesto, have anti-inflammatory and potential immune-boosting properties.
   • Store bought or homemade pesto can be used.
5. Red Pepper Flakes:
   • Metabolism Boost: Red pepper flakes contain capsaicin, which may boost metabolism and help with weight management.
   • Anti-Inflammatory: Capsaicin also has anti-inflammatory properties.
6. Parmesan Cheese (Optional):
   • Calcium and Protein: Parmesan cheese is a good source of calcium and protein, important for bone health and muscle function.
   • Flavor Enhancement: Provides a savory and salty flavor, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
   • Vegan cheeses can be used.

This sheet pan gnocchi recipe provides a balance of flavors and nutrients, making it a convenient and wholesome meal option.

1. Preheat the Oven:
   • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Prepare the Ingredients:
   • Slice the mushrooms, cut the broccoli into florets (fresh broccoli or frozen broccoli florets can also be used), and have the potato gnocchi and pesto ready.
3. Toss Ingredients in a Bowl:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine the remaining ingredients (sliced mushrooms, uncooked gnocchi, broccoli florets, red pepper flakes, and refrigerated basil pesto).
   • Toss everything well until the ingredients are evenly coated with the pesto. This ensures that each component is seasoned and flavored.
4. Spread on a Sheet Pan:
   • Transfer the coated mixture onto a large rimmed baking sheet, spreading it out evenly into a single layer. I like to avoid using parchment paper, as it can hinder the browning of the broccoli and gnocchi. However, parchment paper can be used for easier cleanup of your sheet pan dinner.
5. Bake for the First 10 Minutes:
   • Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake for 10 minutes. This initial bake helps start the cooking process and allows the flavors to meld.
6. Toss and Continue Baking:
   • After the initial 10 minutes, remove the sheet pan from the oven and toss the ingredients well to ensure even cooking.
   • Return the pan to the oven and continue baking for an additional 10 to 15 minutes or until the gnocchi is golden and the broccoli is tender. Tossing helps prevent sticking and promotes even browning as your tray bakes.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
   • Once everything is nicely browned and cooked through, remove the sheet pan from the oven.
   • Serve the delicious sheet pan gnocchi and broccoli hot, with the option to add extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
   • Optional Cheese Topping:
     • If desired, sprinkle vegan Parmesan cheese, mozzarella cheese or another cheese of your choice over the crispy gnocchi and broccoli before serving.

This easy sheet pan recipe minimizes cleanup while maximizing flavor. The pesto adds a burst of fresh-herb goodness, and the red pepper flakes provide a hint of heat, creating a delightful and well-balanced dish. Enjoy your simple yet flavorful meal!

This recipe may be stored in the refrigerator. Although freezing the leftovers is possible, it is not ideal and you may lose the pillowy gnocchi texture. Allow the sheet pan gnocchi and broccoli to cool to room temperature before storing. Transfer any remaining portion into an airtight container. This helps maintain freshness and prevents the absorption of odors from the refrigerator. Store the container in the refrigerator and consume the leftovers within 2-3 days for the best quality.

Here are some twists and additional ingredients you can consider to customize the recipe and boost the vegetable content:

1. Added Protein:
   • Add protein by incorporating grilled chicken breast strips, cooked and crumbled Italian sausage, or white beans (cannellini beans). You can stir these components into the baked the completed baked recipe. 
2. Additional Herbs:
   • Sprinkle fresh herbs like chopped parsley or fresh basil just before serving for a burst of fresh flavor.
3. Nutty Crunch:
   • Toss in toasted pine nuts, almonds, or walnuts for added flavor, crunch, and nutrition.
4. Cheese Variety:
   • Experiment with different cheeses such as feta, goat cheese, or shredded mozzarella for varied taste and texture. Top the dish with cheese after baking or during the last few minutes of baking time.
5. Garlic Infusion:
   • Roast whole garlic cloves along with the vegetables for a milder, sweet garlic flavor. Squeeze the roasted garlic over the dish before serving.
6. Leafy Greens:
   • Mix in leafy greens like spinach or arugula during the last few minutes of baking for a vibrant and nutritious addition.
7. Citrus Zest:
   • Grate some lemon zest or squeeze a bit of lemon juice over the finished dish for a citrusy brightness.
8. Sun-Dried Tomatoes:
   • Incorporate chopped sun-dried tomatoes for a sweet and tangy flavor boost.
9. Spice it Up:
   • Experiment with different spices or dried herbs, such as Italian seasoning, garlic powder, oregano, or thyme, to add some extra flavor.
10. Vegetable Variety:
    • Mix in other vegetables like cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, or brussels sprouts to create a nutrient-rich dish.

Remember to adjust cooking times and temperatures based on the additions you choose. These variations offer an opportunity to get creative and tailor the recipe to your taste preferences or dietary requirements. Enjoy experimenting with different combinations to make the sheet pan gnocchi uniquely yours!

Gnocchi (pronounced nyoh-kee) is a type of Italian pasta that is traditionally made from a mixture of mashed potatoes, flour, and sometimes egg. The result is small, soft dumplings with a pillowy, fluffy gnocchi texture. While potatoes are a common base, other variations may include ingredients like ricotta, semolina, or spinach.

For homemade gnocchi, the preparation involves combining the ingredients into a dough, rolling it into long ropes, and then cutting it into small pieces. These pieces are typically pressed with a fork or another tool to create ridges, which help the gnocchi hold sauce better. Some variations may skip this step, resulting in smooth gnocchi.

Gnocchi, while delicious if homemade, is also a wonderful pantry staple, as it can be purchased frozen, shelf-stable or refrigerated at most grocery stores.

Gnocchi can be boiled, baked, or pan-fried. It is often served with various sauces, such as tomato sauce, pesto, brown butter, or a creamy Alfredo sauce. The versatility of gnocchi makes it a popular and comforting dish in Italian cuisine. 

As mentioned above, there are numerous options for adding protein. Some ideas include: grilled chicken breast, beans (cannellini beans work well), or even Italian sausage.

Traditional gnocchi, which is made with a combination of mashed potatoes, flour, and sometimes egg, is not gluten-free. The wheat flour used in the preparation contains gluten, making standard gnocchi unsuitable for those on a gluten-free diet.

However, there are gluten-free alternatives available. You can find or make gluten-free gnocchi using alternative flours such as rice flour, cornflour, or a gluten-free all-purpose flour blend. Additionally, some commercial brands offer pre-packaged gluten-free gnocchi options.

Yes, you can absolutely use frozen broccoli for your baked gnocchi recipe. Many people do not realize that frozen broccoli florets can be roasted! When using frozen broccoli, be extra careful to evenly distribute the ingredients, making sure that the broccoli is not touching other ingredients (as much as possible). This will help with the browning of your frozen broccoli.