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Creamy Baked Gnocchi

Creamy Baked Gnocchi
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Creamy Baked Gnocchi is a comforting and easy-to-make casserole combining pillowy potato gnocchi with a rich and silky cheesy sauce, topped with a golden, bubbling crust. Ready in under an hour, this dish is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests, offering a creamy texture balanced by fresh herbs and a crispy cheese topping.

Ingredients

Scale

Base Ingredients

  • 1 lb Potato Gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)
  • 1 cup Heavy Cream
  • 1 cup Grated Parmesan Cheese
  • 1 cup Shredded Mozzarella Cheese
  • 3 cloves Garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp Butter
  • Salt and Pepper to taste

Fresh Herbs & Garnishes

  • 2 tbsp Fresh Parsley or Thyme, chopped

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Sauce: Melt butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add freshly minced garlic and sauté for about one minute until fragrant. Slowly stir in heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer, allowing it to thicken slightly. Add grated parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper, stirring continuously until the cheese melts completely and the sauce becomes smooth and velvety.
  2. Cook the Gnocchi: Boil gnocchi in salted water according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain the gnocchi quickly, reserving a splash of pasta water if desired. Add the drained gnocchi directly into the skillet with the creamy sauce and gently toss to coat each piece evenly.
  3. Assemble the Dish: Transfer the sauced gnocchi into a greased baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the top to create a bubbly cheese layer. Optionally, add extra parmesan cheese for a deeper flavor.
  4. Bake Until Golden: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled dish for 20–25 minutes or until the top is golden brown and bubbling. Watch carefully to avoid burning; the crust should be beautifully golden and crispy.
  5. Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley or thyme before serving to add color and a bright, herby note.

Notes

  • Use fresh gnocchi for a softer texture that absorbs sauce better.
  • Boil gnocchi just until they float to keep them tender but intact during baking.
  • Layering parmesan and mozzarella cheeses results in a more complex flavor and a golden, bubbly crust.
  • Allow the dish to rest after baking so the sauce thickens and flavors meld.
  • Add fresh herbs last to preserve their brightness and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: Creamy Baked Gnocchi, cheesy casserole, easy gnocchi recipe, comfort food, baked gnocchi, Italian casserole

Find it online: https://lillysplate.com/creamy-baked-gnocchi/