Creamy Baked Gnocchi Recipe

Creamy Baked Gnocchi combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a rich, velvety sauce and a golden-baked cheese topping. This dish is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a gathering, bringing together Italian-inspired flavors in a comforting, satisfying way. Plus, it’s easy to customize with vegetables, proteins, or additional herbs to make it your own.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Rich & Comforting: The creamy sauce paired with soft gnocchi makes for an indulgent meal.
Easy & Customizable: Use simple ingredients and modify with your favorite add-ins.
Great for Leftovers: This dish stores well and maintains its delicious flavor and texture.

Ingredients

1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
1 tbsp olive oil
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup heavy cream
½ cup chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
1 tsp Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper to taste
2 cups baby spinach (optional)
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until just tender, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Make the Creamy Sauce

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
Add minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
Pour in heavy cream and broth, stirring to combine. Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for 2-3 minutes.
Stir in ½ cup mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and spinach (if using) until melted and smooth.

Step 3: Assemble and Bake

Toss the cooked gnocchi in the sauce until evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish and spread it evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top.
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Step 4: Serve

Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Pair with a light salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Customization Ideas

Add Vegetables: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, cherry tomatoes, or roasted red peppers.
Add Protein: Include cooked chicken, bacon, or sausage for a heartier dish.
Boost Flavor: Try adding fresh basil, thyme, or a pinch of red pepper flakes.
Extra Cheese: Mix additional Parmesan into the sauce or sprinkle more on top before baking.

Make-Ahead & Storage Tips

Make-Ahead: Assemble the dish up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if chilled.
Freezing: Freeze the unbaked casserole for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Warm in the oven at 350°F for 10-15 minutes or microwave individual portions.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce?
Yes! If you’re short on time, substitute homemade sauce with a jar of Alfredo sauce and adjust the seasoning to taste.

Can I make this gluten-free?
Absolutely! Use gluten-free gnocchi and replace flour with a gluten-free thickener in the sauce.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute dairy-free milk and cheese alternatives like coconut milk or almond milk.

Can I use other pasta?
If you don’t have gnocchi, swap with small pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni. Adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make it extra cheesy?
Add ½ cup more Parmesan to the sauce or layer extra cheese between the gnocchi.

Variations & Add-Ons

Spinach & Artichoke: Mix in chopped artichoke hearts and fresh spinach for a flavorful twist.
Sun-Dried Tomato & Basil: Add chopped sun-dried tomatoes and fresh basil for a bright, tangy touch.
Truffle Gnocchi: Drizzle truffle oil over the baked dish for a gourmet upgrade.
Garlic Bread Topping: Sprinkle garlic butter breadcrumbs on top for extra crunch.

Conclusion

This Creamy Baked Gnocchi is a comforting, cheese-laden dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it as a main course with a side salad or garlic bread, and enjoy a cozy, satisfying meal!