Creamy Ham and Gnocchi Skillet: A 30-Minute Family Meal

Transform your leftover ham into a mouthwatering dinner with this quick and easy ham and gnocchi recipe. Perfect for busy weeknights!

Key Takeaways:

• Ready in just 30 minutes using store-bought gnocchi
• Great way to use leftover holiday ham
• Creamy, cheesy sauce that kids love
• One-pan meal for easy cleanup

Introduction

Need a quick dinner that’s both filling and delicious? This ham and gnocchi skillet combines tender potato gnocchi, savory ham, and a creamy cheese sauce into one satisfying meal. It’s the perfect solution for using up leftover holiday ham or creating a fast weeknight dinner your whole family will love.

Equipment & Ingredients

Kitchen Tools

• Large skillet or sauté pan (12-inch recommended)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board

Ingredients (Serves 4)

• 1 pound store-bought potato gnocchi
• 2 cups diced ham
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup frozen peas
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: fresh basil for garnish

Substitutions

• Replace heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter version
• Swap mozzarella with Gruyere or Muenster cheese
• Use fresh peas instead of frozen
• Try spinach instead of peas

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparation Phase (10 minutes)

Getting Your Ingredients Ready

1. Place all ingredients on your counter so everything is within reach
2. Measure out each ingredient into separate bowls:

• Portion out 2 cups of ham
• Measure 2 tablespoons butter
• Set aside 1 cup frozen peas
• Measure 1 cup mozzarella and 1/4 cup Parmesan cheese
• Measure 1/2 cup heavy cream

Prep Work

1. Dice the ham:

• Cut ham into even 1/2-inch cubes (about the size of a regular die)
• Place diced ham in a bowl
• Tip: Consistent size ensures even cooking

1. Prepare the garlic:

• Peel 2 cloves of garlic
• Place flat side of knife on garlic and press to crush
• Finely chop crushed garlic
• Tip: If garlic sticks to knife, wipe with a paper towel

Cooking Phase (25 minutes)

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi (7-8 minutes)

1. Fill a large pot with water:

• Fill 2/3 full (about 4 quarts)
• Add 1 tablespoon salt
• Why: Salt flavors the gnocchi from the inside

1. Bring water to boil:

• Place pot on high heat
• Cover with lid to boil faster
• How to tell it’s boiling: Look for large bubbles consistently breaking the surface

1. Cook the gnocchi:

• Remove lid
• Gently add gnocchi to boiling water
• Stir once gently with a wooden spoon
• Watch carefully: Gnocchi will sink then float
• Cook time is usually 2-3 minutes
• Important: They’re done when they float to the surface

1. Drain the gnocchi:

• Place colander in sink
• Carefully pour gnocchi and water into colander
• Safety tip: Pour away from yourself to avoid steam burns
• Don’t rinse the gnocchi
• Let drain for 30 seconds

Step 2: Prepare the Skillet (8-10 minutes)

1. Heat your pan:

• Place large skillet on burner
• Set heat to medium
• How to know it’s ready: Hold your hand 6 inches above – should feel warm after 5 seconds

1. Melt the butter:

• Add 2 tablespoons butter to warm pan
• Watch as it melts
• Tip: Butter should sizzle gently, not brown
• Swirl to coat pan bottom

1. Cook the garlic:

• Add minced garlic to melted butter
• Stir constantly for 30 seconds
• Watch carefully: Garlic burns easily
• How to tell it’s ready: Should be fragrant but not brown

1. Cook the ham:

• Add diced ham to pan
• Spread in even layer
• Cook 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally
• Goal: Light golden edges on ham
• Tip: Don’t stir too often – letting ham sit creates crispy edges

Step 3: Combine Everything (10 minutes)

1. Add gnocchi to skillet:

• Pour drained gnocchi into ham mixture
• Stir gently with wooden spoon
• Tip: Don’t crush the gnocchi

1. Add remaining ingredients:

• Add frozen peas (no need to thaw)
• Pour in heavy cream
• Tip: Pour cream slowly while stirring

1. Add cheese:

• Sprinkle mozzarella evenly over mixture
• Add Parmesan cheese
• Stir gently until cheese starts melting
• What to look for: Sauce will start to thicken

1. Final seasoning:

• Add 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• Taste and add salt if needed
• Remember: Ham and cheese are already salty

Finishing Steps (5 minutes)

1. Let dish rest:

• Remove from heat
• Let stand 2-3 minutes
• Why: Sauce will thicken and set

1. Final touches:

• If using fresh basil, tear into small pieces
• Sprinkle over top
• Optional: Add extra Parmesan

1. Serving:

• Use large spoon to portion onto plates
• Serve immediately while hot
• Tip: Place extra Parmesan on table for serving

Troubleshooting

• Sauce too thick? Add a splash of pasta water or cream
• Gnocchi sticking together? Add a drizzle of olive oil after draining
• Sauce not thickening? Cook on medium heat for a few extra minutes
• Cheese clumping? Remove from heat and stir constantly

Variations & Substitutions

• Protein Options: Use chicken, sausage, or turkey instead of ham
• Veggie Add-ins: Add mushrooms, broccoli, or spinach
• Cheese Variations: Try different cheese combinations
• Gluten-free Option: Use gluten-free gnocchi

Storage & Reheating

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat in microwave with a splash of cream or milk
• Can be frozen for up to 1 month
• Best Practice: Reheat slowly on stovetop for creamiest results

Safety Notes & Tips

• Always check gnocchi is cooked through
• Keep cream-based sauce at a gentle simmer to prevent curdling
• Use caution when working with hot pans
• If using leftover ham, ensure it was properly stored
• Wash hands after handling raw ingredients

Pro Tips:

• Use room temperature cheese for better melting
• Don’t rinse gnocchi after cooking
• Stir gently to keep gnocchi intact
• Pre-shred your own cheese for better melting

Remember: This recipe is forgiving and adaptable. Feel free to adjust seasonings and ingredients to your family’s taste preferences.