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.
Gnocchi with Ham & Peas
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!
Gnocchi for Easter

Gnocchi with Ham & Peas

Start a new tradition with this gnocchi dish that combines Easter brunch flavors.
Print Rate
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4
Author: Donya | asouthernsoul.com

Ingredients

  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1 medium size onion - diced
  • 1 cup chopped ham - from deli or leftovers
  • 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 3/4 cup chicken broth plus 1/2 cup water
  • 1 package potato gnocchi – 17.5 oz. standard size
  • 1 cup frozen peas - thawed
  • 2 teaspoons lemon zest
  • 1/4 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 1/4 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.
Potato Gnocchi with Ham & Peas

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