Are you struggling to get your family to eat kale? Well, worry no more! One of the most effective ways to coax your family into not just eating but truly enjoying kale is by baking it in a cheesy casserole with gnocchi and Parmesan. This dish is not only a great way to incorporate the nutritional powerhouse that is kale into your family's diet but also a delicious dinner option that everyone will look forward to.
Let's start by talking about the star ingredient - kale. Kale is a leafy green vegetable that is packed with vitamins A, C, and K, as well as antioxidants and fiber. It has a slightly bitter taste, which can be off - putting to some, especially kids. However, when combined with the right ingredients in a casserole, that bitterness is transformed into a rich, savory flavor.
Next up is gnocchi. Gnocchi are small, soft dumplings typically made from potatoes and flour. They have a unique texture that is both pillowy and chewy. Gnocchi are a great addition to this casserole because they soak up the cheesy sauce and add a comforting element to the dish. You can find gnocchi in most grocery stores, either fresh or frozen.
Now, let's move on to the Parmesan cheese. Parmesan is a hard, granular cheese with a sharp, nutty flavor. It is the perfect cheese to use in this casserole as it melts beautifully and adds a depth of flavor. When sprinkled on top of the casserole, it forms a crispy, golden - brown crust that is simply irresistible.
To make this cheesy kale and gnocchi casserole, you will need the following ingredients:
- 1 bunch of kale, washed and chopped
- 1 package of gnocchi (about 16 ounces)
- 1 cup of shredded Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup of ricotta cheese
- 1/2 cup of milk
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon of olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
First, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring some water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Once the gnocchi are cooked, drain them and set them aside.
While the gnocchi are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 - 2 minutes until fragrant. Then, add the chopped kale to the skillet and cook for about 5 - 7 minutes until the kale has wilted. Season the kale with salt and pepper to taste.
In a medium bowl, combine the shredded Parmesan cheese, ricotta cheese, and milk. Mix well until you have a smooth, creamy sauce. Add the cooked gnocchi and the wilted kale to the bowl with the cheese sauce and stir gently to combine.
Transfer the gnocchi and kale mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle some additional shredded Parmesan cheese on top of the casserole. Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25 - 30 minutes until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
Once the casserole is done baking, let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This cheesy kale and gnocchi casserole is best served hot, straight from the oven. You can serve it as a main course on its own or pair it with a side salad for a more balanced meal.
Not only is this dish delicious, but it is also relatively easy to make. It is a great option for busy weeknights when you don't have a lot of time to spend in the kitchen. The combination of the kale, gnocchi, and Parmesan cheese creates a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will have your family asking for seconds.
So, the next time you're looking for a new dinner idea that is both healthy and delicious, give this cheesy kale and gnocchi casserole a try. It's a surefire way to get your family to embrace kale and enjoy a wonderful meal together.
You can also experiment with this recipe by adding other ingredients. For example, you could add some cooked bacon or sausage for a meaty twist. Or, if you're a fan of vegetables, you could throw in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms. The possibilities are endless!
In conclusion, this cheesy kale and gnocchi casserole is a winner in the world of dinner and meal ideas. It combines the goodness of kale with the comfort of gnocchi and the deliciousness of Parmesan cheese. So, gather your family around the table and enjoy this mouth - watering dish!
