This might just be the dish that starts a new tradition on our Easter brunch table. Last week, we had a great time at the coast celebrating spring break. We decided to travel back on Saturday so that we could spend Easter at home. I normally cook a big, beautiful ham and serve it with fresh veggies and lot’s of deviled eggs. This year, I discovered just what little time I had left to prepare our traditional meal so I decided to make something a “little” different.
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I made this beautiful, creamy, delicious gnocchi and it was the star of the day! Those tender little dumplings were perfect with savory ham, fresh peas all baked in a creamy sauce topped with cheese. Of course, we still had deviled eggs and I made a sweet fruit salad to round out the menu. It was a wonderful, new Easter Brunch that is destined to make a comeback!
Start a new tradition with this gnocchi dish that combines Easter brunch flavors.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 medium size onion - diced
- 1 cup chopped ham - from deli or leftovers
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ¾ cup chicken broth plus ½ cup water
- 1 package potato gnocchi – 17.5 oz. standard size
- 1 cup frozen peas - thawed
- 2 teaspoons lemon zest
- ¼ cup heavy cream or half & half
- 1 cup shredded parmesan or cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Preheat oven broiler to high.
- Melt butter in large ovenproof skillet over medium heat.
- Add onion and cook until translucent.
- Add ham and thyme. Continue to cook until ham is slightly brown on edges.
- Pour in chicken broth/water and bring to a simmer.
- Gently add gnocchi, stir until ingredients are mixed then cover and cook until gnocchi is tender - about 4 minutes.
- Remove skillet from heat. Stir in peas, lemon zest and cream.
- Adjust seasonings with ¼ teaspoon salt and a generous pinch of pepper.
- Top with cheeses and broil until golden and bubbly, approximately 4-5 minutes.
- To serve - sprinkle with additional cheese and chopped chives.
Notes
Gnocchi is a potato dumpling and can be found in the dried pasta or frozen section in most grocery stores. I used deli sandwich ham, which I diced. Using leftover ham would work wonderfully in this dish. Any cheese can be used in the dish. I had Parmesan and Cheddar on hand so that is what I used. A single cheese or combination of 2 is fine to use.
Did you make this?I'd love to see! Share on Instagram, tag @asouthernsoul, and use the hashtag #asouthernsoul!
5 Days of Southern Summer Comfort Food!
My go-to summer recipes!
I'm usually not a fan of Gnocchi, but with ham and peas, I must give this a try. Sounds delicious. Thanks for the recipe Donya.
Glad you gave me a shout out Lea Ann. The recipe has gotten rave reviews. It's been a hit in my son's lunch box as well! xo,~Donya
Great idea.
Thanks friend!