Gnocchi with Ham and Peas

This is really good, fast, and easy. Sometimes I forget to broil at the end, and just add the cheese on top. Sometimes the starving boys in my house can’t wait. It’s absolutely fine this way, although broiling the cheese on top can give a bit of texture to this comforting dish. Go with the flow.

1 tablespoon unsalted butter

1 onion, chopped

1 to 1 ½ pound ham steak, diced

1 teaspoon ground thyme

1 cup low-sodium chicken broth

One 17.5-ounce package potato gnocchi

2 cups frozen peas

1/4 cup half and half (or heavy cream)

Freshly ground black pepper

1 cup shredded or grated Parmesan cheese

Preheat the broiler to high heat.

Melt the butter in a large ovenproof skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Add the ham and thyme and continue to cook until the ham is lightly browned.

Add the chicken broth and 3/4 cup water and bring to a simmer. Add the gnocchi, stir well, cover, and cook until the gnocchi is slightly tender, about 5 minutes. Remove from the heat. Uncover and stir in the peas, cream, and 1/4 teaspoon pepper. Sprinkle the cheese over the top and broil until golden and bubbly, about 3 minutes. Serve.

Sometimes, like the portion above, I want this to be more like a soup and add extra broth and water. Sometimes I don't.