Looking for a cozy fall dish that's both easy and delicious? Try my Sheet-Pan Crispy Gnocchi and Fall Veggies Delight! This one-pan meal combines hearty veggies with soft, pillowy gnocchi, all roasted to crispy perfection. Perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, you’ll love how simple and flavorful it is. Let’s dive into how to create this tasty fall feast that will warm your heart and please your palate!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound fresh or frozen gnocchi
- 2 cups butternut squash, diced
- 1 cup Brussels sprouts, halved
- 1 red onion, cut into wedges
Cooking Essentials
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Spices: 1 teaspoon garlic powder, 1 teaspoon smoked paprika, salt, and pepper
Optional Add-ins
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Gather these ingredients before you start cooking. The star of this dish is the gnocchi. You can use fresh or frozen gnocchi. Both work well and cook quickly. Butternut squash adds sweetness and body. Brussels sprouts give a nice crunch. The red onion brings a mild flavor.
For cooking, olive oil is key. It helps everything crisp up nicely. The garlic powder and smoked paprika add depth. Salt and pepper bring out the flavors.
If you like cheese, consider adding Parmesan. It melts beautifully over the dish. Fresh parsley adds a burst of color and freshness. You can use these ingredients to create a warm and hearty meal.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Vegetables
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C).
- Toss together 2 cups of diced butternut squash, 1 cup of halved Brussels sprouts, and 1 red onion cut into wedges.
- Drizzle with 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Add 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
- Spread the veggies in a single layer on a large sheet pan.
Cooking the Gnocchi
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
- Cook 1 pound of fresh or frozen gnocchi according to the package instructions.
- This usually takes about 2-3 minutes, or until the gnocchi float.
- Drain the gnocchi and set them aside for later.
Combining and Final Roasting
- After 15 minutes, take the sheet pan from the oven.
- Add the cooked gnocchi to the roasted vegetables.
- Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
- Toss everything gently to combine.
- Return the sheet pan to the oven.
- Roast for another 15-20 minutes until the gnocchi are crispy and the veggies are tender.
- If you want cheese, sprinkle ¼ cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top in the last 5 minutes.
- Once done, take it out of the oven and garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Crispy Gnocchi
To make your gnocchi crispy, start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This high temperature helps create that golden crunch. Spread the gnocchi and veggies in a single layer on the sheet pan. This step is key. If they are too crowded, they will steam instead of roast. Aim for even spacing for the best results.
Seasoning Suggestions
Want to take your dish up a notch? Try adding fresh herbs like rosemary or thyme. They bring a wonderful flavor that pairs great with fall veggies. You can also sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Garlic powder and smoked paprika already add depth, but these extras can really shine.
Presentation Tips
For a beautiful plate, use a large serving dish. Create a bed of veggies and gnocchi. If you want to impress, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top. It will melt slightly and add a nice touch. Finally, garnish with fresh parsley. The green color will pop and make your dish look fresh and inviting.
Variations
Vegetable Substitutions
You can swap out the butternut squash, Brussels sprouts, and red onion for other seasonal veggies. Try adding:
- Sweet potatoes for a hearty touch.
- Carrots, cut into sticks for sweetness.
- Cauliflower, chopped into florets for a nice crunch.
- Zucchini, sliced for extra freshness.
These options keep the dish colorful and tasty. Each veggie brings its own flavor and texture, making your meal unique.
Protein Additions
If you want to make this dish heartier, adding protein is easy. Consider these options:
- Cooked chicken, diced for added protein.
- Italian sausage, crumbled and browned for a spicy kick.
- Tofu, cubed and baked for a plant-based choice.
Adding protein makes this meal more filling and satisfying. You can mix and match to find the right balance for your taste.
Dietary Adjustments
For those with dietary needs, there are simple swaps. You can use:
- Gluten-free gnocchi made from rice or potato flour.
- Vegan cheese or skip the cheese for a dairy-free option.
These adjustments keep the dish friendly for various diets without losing flavor. Enjoy your meal while catering to your needs!
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your gnocchi and veggies fresh, store them in an airtight container. Let them cool down first. This will help prevent steam buildup and sogginess. Place them in the fridge if you plan to eat them within three days. For longer storage, consider freezing them.
Reheating Instructions
When it's time to enjoy your leftovers, the oven is your best friend. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Spread the gnocchi and veggies on a baking sheet, drizzle with a little olive oil, and heat for about 15 minutes. This method keeps the gnocchi crispy and the veggies tender. You can also use a microwave, but it may make the gnocchi soft.
Freezing Tips
To freeze your dish, cool it completely first. Transfer the gnocchi and veggies into freezer-safe bags or containers. Squeeze out as much air as possible to avoid freezer burn. You can freeze them for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. This will help maintain the best texture and flavor.
FAQs
What is gnocchi, and how is it different from pasta?
Gnocchi is a soft dumpling made from potatoes, flour, and egg. It is different from pasta, which is usually made from wheat and water. Gnocchi has a light, fluffy texture. Pasta often has a firmer bite. You can enjoy gnocchi in many sauces, but it shines when roasted like in this dish. The crispy edges add a delightful crunch.
Can I use frozen vegetables instead of fresh?
Yes, you can use frozen vegetables. They save time and are often just as healthy. Just make sure to thaw them before cooking. If you skip this step, they may release too much water. This can make the dish soggy instead of crispy. Frozen vegetables are a great choice for quick meals.
How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked properly?
Gnocchi is cooked when it floats in boiling water. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. If you want to check, taste one. It should feel soft and tender. For this recipe, you will roast the gnocchi after boiling. This gives it a crispy texture that's truly satisfying.
Is it necessary to add cheese, or are there alternatives?
Adding cheese is not necessary but can enhance flavor. You can use Parmesan for a salty kick. If you want to skip cheese, try nutritional yeast for a cheesy taste without dairy. You can also use a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. This adds flavor and keeps the dish fresh.
This blog covered a simple and tasty recipe for gnocchi with roasted veggies. You learned about the main ingredients, cooking steps, and useful tips to enhance the dish. The blog also provided storage info and variations to suit your taste.
Feel free to adjust ingredients or add proteins for a personal touch. Enjoy this satisfying meal that is easy to make and full of flavor!
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