Name: Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Broccoli Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-inspired
Ingredients: 300 g Broccoli (Cut into very small pieces); 1 Onion (Peeled and chopped); 2 tbsp Olive oil; 500 g Gnocchi (dried); 25 g Cornflour; 300 ml Milk; 300 ml Crème fraîche; 75 g Parmesan cheese (Grated, divided); 1 tsp Wholegrain mustard; 1 tsp Garlic granules; Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 10 reviews

There’s something undeniably comforting and soul-satisfying about a warm, cheesy pasta bake, and the Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Broccoli Recipe hits that spot perfectly. This dish combines pillowy gnocchi and fresh broccoli tossed in a luscious, creamy sauce loaded with Parmesan cheese and a touch of wholegrain mustard for depth. It’s quick to prepare, bakes up beautifully with golden, bubbling cheese on top, and offers a harmonious balance of flavor and texture that feels both indulgent and fresh. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a casual gathering, this recipe is destined to become a favorite you’ll want to make again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows several white bowls and a white plate arranged on a white marbled surface, each filled with different ingredients. The largest white bowl at the top left is full of uncooked gnocchi, small and pale yellow with ridged textures. Below and to the right, there is a white bowl filled with finely chopped green broccoli florets. A medium white bowl at the top right holds chopped white onions. Another white bowl near the center contains finely grated pale yellow cheese. Smaller white bowls contain grainy Dijon mustard with visible mustard seeds, dry bread crumbs, and creamy white sour cream. At the bottom, a clear glass measuring cup holds a white liquid, likely milk. Everything is neatly arranged and well-lit. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

While the ingredients list might look simple, each element plays a crucial role in creating that perfect cheesy, creamy texture and vibrant taste you crave in the Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Broccoli Recipe. The fresh broccoli brings bright color and a gentle crunch, while the Parmesan adds a savory, nutty punch. Every component matters, so here’s what you’ll need:

Broccoli (300 g): Cut into very small pieces for even roasting and to blend beautifully with the gnocchi.
Onion (1, chopped): Adds sweetness and depth after roasting alongside the broccoli.
Olive oil (2 tbsp): Divided for roasting and coating, it ensures everything crisps up and stays moist.
Dried gnocchi (500 g): The star of the dish, providing tender bites that soak up the creamy sauce.
Cornflour (25 g): This helps thicken the crème fraîche and milk mixture into a silky sauce.
Milk (300 ml): Combined with crème fraîche, it makes the sauce rich but light enough, avoiding heaviness.
Crème fraîche (300 ml): Offers creaminess and a subtle tang to elevate the cheesy flavor.
Parmesan cheese (75 g, grated): Used both inside the sauce and sprinkled on top for that irresistible golden crust.
Wholegrain mustard (1 tsp): Adds a gentle kick and depth that balances the richness.
Garlic granules (1 tsp): Provides a warm, mellow garlic taste without overpowering.
Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential seasonings to bring all the flavors together.

How to Make Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Broccoli Recipe

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Veggies

Start by preheating your oven to 200℃/400F fan, 220℃/425F conventional, or Gas Mark 7. While that’s warming up, toss the chopped broccoli and onion with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, plenty of salt, and pepper in a shallow roasting tin. This initial roast softens the vegetables gently and develops their natural sweetness, building a tasty foundation for this dish.

Step 2: Roast the Gnocchi with Veggies

After roasting the broccoli and onion for about 10 minutes, add the dried gnocchi and drizzle the remaining olive oil over everything. Stir well to coat, then return the tin to the oven for another 10 minutes. This not only warms the gnocchi but gives them slightly crispy edges that will stand up beautifully to the creamy sauce later.

Step 3: Whisk Together the Creamy Sauce

While the gnocchi and veggies roast, prepare the sauce. In a small bowl, mix the cornflour with just enough milk to form a smooth paste—this step is key to a silky, thickened sauce without lumps. Then whisk in the crème fraîche until smooth. Gradually add the rest of the milk, whisking continuously. This process ensures a rich but velvety sauce texture perfectly balancing the creaminess without feeling too heavy.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Seasoning to the Sauce

Next, stir in two-thirds of the grated Parmesan, the wholegrain mustard, garlic granules, plus salt and freshly ground pepper to taste. These ingredients give the sauce that signature cheesy flavor with layers of tang and a subtle aromatic lift, making it incredibly moreish.

Step 5: Combine, Top with Cheese, and Bake

Pour the creamy mixture over the roasted gnocchi and vegetables, stirring everything together gently to coat evenly. Sprinkle the remaining Parmesan over the top to create a golden, bubbling crust during baking. Pop the whole dish back in the oven for 10 more minutes—this is when the magic happens, as the cheese melts and browns invitingly, while all the flavors meld perfectly.

How to Serve Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Broccoli Recipe

This image shows a white baking dish filled with baked gnocchi and broccoli covered in a creamy white cheese sauce. The top layer is golden brown with spots of melted, browned cheese giving a bubbly texture. Small green broccoli florets are scattered on top, adding green color to the mostly light cream and yellow gnocchi. Finely chopped green herbs are sprinkled across the top for a fresh look. A silver spoon scoops some of the cheesy gnocchi and broccoli from the bottom right corner, showing the thick creamy sauce below the browned surface. The dish is set on a white marbled surface with small bits of green herbs around the dish. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate the cozy vibe of this dish, garnish with a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley or basil for a pop of green and a fresh, herbal note. A light drizzle of extra virgin olive oil just before serving can give a lovely shine and richness that feels extra special.

Side Dishes

This recipe is a hearty dish on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic-roasted cherry tomatoes adds refreshing contrast and brightness to every bite. Crusty bread also makes a wonderful companion to dip into the creamy sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, try serving individual portions straight from ramekins or small baking dishes. This not only feels fancy but keeps each serving warm and gooey. Alternatively, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or chili flakes on top for added texture and a gentle heat kick, catering to more adventurous palates.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Once cooled to room temperature, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. The flavors continue to develop, making it even tastier the next day.

Freezing

This Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Broccoli Recipe freezes well. Portion it out, cover with a lid or foil, and freeze for up to 3 months. To avoid ice crystals, try to remove as much air as possible from the storage container or bag.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 180℃/350F until warmed through to keep the sauce creamy and prevent the gnocchi from becoming mushy. Alternatively, a microwave will work for convenience but watch to avoid drying out the dish.

FAQs

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of dried?

Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi works beautifully here and might reduce the roasting time slightly since it cooks faster than dried. Just keep an eye on them during the roasting steps.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can swap the crème fraîche and Parmesan for plant-based alternatives like coconut cream or cashew cream and vegan cheese. The texture and flavor will change slightly but still result in a deliciously creamy bake.

Can I add other vegetables to this dish?

Definitely! Mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach are great additions that complement the broccoli well. Just roast or sauté them beforehand to avoid excess moisture in the bake.

What can I use instead of cornflour?

If you don’t have cornflour, plain flour or arrowroot powder can work as substitutes for thickening the sauce. Just adjust the quantity slightly and mix well to avoid lumps.

How spicy is this dish?

This recipe is mild and comforting with a hint of savory tang from the mustard, making it approachable for all palates. However, you can add red pepper flakes or chili oil if you want a bit of heat.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Broccoli Recipe is a total winner — simple to make yet packed with rich, inviting flavors and textures that warm the heart. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weekday meal or a crowd-pleaser for guests, it’s bound to impress. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be reaching for this recipe time and again to share that cozy, cheesy goodness with your loved ones.