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Creamy Baked Gnocchi

Creamy Baked Gnocchi

Creamy Baked Gnocchi is a comforting and elegant casserole dish that combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a rich, velvety cream sauce and a golden melted cheese topping. Perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions, this recipe is simple to prepare yet impressively decadent, offering a harmonious blend of softness and savory depth that delights every palate.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Optional Ingredients

  • Fresh basil or thyme, for garnish
  • Sautéed spinach, mushrooms, or roasted cherry tomatoes (for vegetable boost)
  • Cooked chicken, crispy bacon, or Italian sausage (for added protein)
  • Red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeños (for spicy kick)
  • Herb variations: rosemary or sage instead of basil

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Gnocchi: Begin by boiling the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface, indicating they are perfectly cooked. Drain well and set aside to avoid excess moisture in the casserole.
  2. Make the Creamy Sauce: In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Pour in the heavy cream and simmer gently. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, cooking until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes silky smooth.
  3. Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Transfer the cooked gnocchi into a baking dish and pour the creamy sauce over it, ensuring every piece is well coated. Toss gently if needed for an even distribution.
  4. Add Cheese and Bake: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella generously on top. Place the dish in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) and bake for about 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs such as basil or thyme before serving to add a fresh pop of flavor.

Notes

  • Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Boil until they just float to prevent mushiness during baking.
  • Use fresh garlic for vibrant aroma and flavor.
  • Layer the cheeses by combining mozzarella and Parmesan for a perfect balance of gooeyness and sharpness.
  • Keep an eye on the baking time to avoid burning the cheese topping.
  • Allow the dish to rest post-baking to set the sauce and enhance the texture.
  • Author: Lina
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Appetizers
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 cup
  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Sugar: 2 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 28 g
  • Saturated Fat: 17 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 8 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 30 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: creamy baked gnocchi, baked gnocchi casserole, comfort food, easy baked gnocchi, cheesy gnocchi bake