Creamy Gnocchi with Ham and Peas Recipe

Introduction

This creamy gnocchi with ham and peas is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Tender gnocchi coated in a rich cheese sauce with savory ham and sweet peas makes for an easy yet impressive meal.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 shallot, minced
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper
• 12 ounces diced ham (about 2 cups)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ⅓ cup chicken stock
• 1½ cups shredded gruyere cheese, divided
• 1 package gnocchi (16 to 17.6 ounces), prepared according to package directions
• ½ cup frozen green peas
• ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Step 1: Heat the broiler to high. In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced shallot, garlic, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Sauté until the shallot softens, about 10 minutes. Add the diced ham and cook until warmed through, about 3 minutes. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and sauté until the flour is absorbed and the raw smell disappears, about 3 minutes.
2. Step 2: Pour in the heavy cream and chicken stock. Bring to a simmer, stirring frequently, for about 5 minutes. Stir in 1 cup of the shredded gruyere cheese until melted, making sure to scrape the bottom of the pan to avoid sticking. Remove the pan from heat.
3. Step 3: Stir the prepared gnocchi and frozen peas into the sauce until evenly combined. Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup of gruyere and the parmesan cheese evenly on top. Place the skillet under the broiler for 5 to 7 minutes, until the cheese melts and the top is lightly browned.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, omit the ham and add sautéed mushrooms or spinach instead.
• Use fresh gnocchi if available for an even tender, pillowy texture.
• Replace rosemary with thyme or sage for a different herbal note.
• Ensure to watch carefully under the broiler to prevent burning the cheese topping.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream or milk if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes, similar melting cheeses like fontina, mozzarella, or cheddar can work well if gruyere is not available.

Do I need to cook the gnocchi before adding to the sauce?

Yes, prepare the gnocchi according to the package instructions before mixing with the sauce to ensure they are tender and cooked through.

Creamy Gnocchi with Ham and Peas Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 85 reviews

This Creamy Gnocchi with Ham and Peas recipe is a comforting and rich dish featuring tender gnocchi simmered in a luscious cheese and cream sauce, enhanced with savory ham, fresh rosemary, and green peas. Finished under the broiler for a golden, bubbly cheese crust, this meal is perfect for a cozy dinner that combines easy preparation with gourmet flavors.

• Author: Maya
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Stovetop and Broiling
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 1 shallot, minced
• 2 teaspoons minced garlic
• 2 teaspoons minced fresh rosemary
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• ½ teaspoon ground pepper
• 12 ounces diced ham (about 2 cups)
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 cup heavy cream
• ⅓ cup chicken stock
• 1½ cups shredded gruyere cheese, divided
• 1 package gnocchi (16 to 17.6 ounces), prepared according to package directions
• ½ cup frozen green peas
• ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Sauté Aromatics and Ham: Heat a large skillet over medium heat and add the butter. Once melted, add the minced shallot, garlic, rosemary, kosher salt, and ground pepper. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the shallot is softened, about 10 minutes. Then add the diced ham and sauté until warmed through, about 3 minutes.
2. Make the Cheese Sauce: Sprinkle the flour over the ham and aromatics mixture and sauté for about 3 minutes, stirring constantly until the flour is absorbed and the raw flour smell disappears. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken stock, then bring the mixture to a simmer while stirring frequently. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to thicken.
3. Add Cheese to Sauce: Sprinkle 1 cup of shredded gruyere cheese over the sauce and stir continuously until completely melted and smooth, scraping the bottom of the pan to prevent burning. Remove the pan from heat once the cheese is integrated.
4. Combine Gnocchi and Peas: Stir the prepared gnocchi and frozen peas into the creamy ham mixture until well combined and evenly coated with sauce.
5. Broil to Finish: Sprinkle the remaining ½ cup shredded gruyere and the ½ cup shredded parmesan cheese evenly over the top. Place the skillet under a preheated broiler on high and broil for 5 to 7 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned on top. Carefully remove from the broiler before serving.

Notes

• For best results, prepare the gnocchi according to the package directions before adding to the sauce.
• You can substitute frozen peas with fresh peas if available, adjusting cooking time slightly.
• Keep a close eye under the broiler to prevent the cheese from burning.
• Fresh rosemary adds a fragrant note; if unavailable, substitute with 1 teaspoon dried rosemary.
• This dish can be served immediately for a creamy texture or allow to sit for a few minutes for a thicker consistency.

Keywords: creamy gnocchi, ham and peas gnocchi, cheesy gnocchi, easy gnocchi recipe, comfort food, Italian dinner