Description

A rich, creamy, and easy-to-make comfort food dish featuring gnocchi and a decadent cheese sauce, perfect for cozy nights or gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale

1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons unsalted butter
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
2 cups whole milk, warmed
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper, to taste
Pinch of garlic powder
1/2 cup panko breadcrumbs
1 tablespoon olive oil

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish lightly with butter or oil.
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes), then drain and set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the flour and whisk for about 1 minute, until golden and bubbly.
Gradually pour in the warm milk, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Add the heavy cream and continue whisking until the mixture thickens, about 3-4 minutes.
Lower the heat and stir in the cheddar cheese, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and garlic powder. Mix until the cheese has melted and the sauce is smooth.
Combine the cooked gnocchi with the cheese sauce, tossing gently to coat evenly. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish.
In a small bowl, mix the panko breadcrumbs with olive oil. Sprinkle over the gnocchi mixture for a crispy topping.
Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and the cheese is bubbling. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes

[‘Use fresh gnocchi for better texture.’, ‘Shred your own cheese for optimal melting.’, ‘Toast breadcrumbs in a skillet for extra crunch.’, ‘Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.’, ‘Prep the cheese sauce ahead and store in the fridge for up to 2 days.’]

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Category: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 portion
Calories: 450
Fat: 20
Carbohydrates: 30
Protein: 15

Keywords: gnocchi mac and cheese, creamy baked gnocchi, comfort food, easy dinner recipe, family-friendly meal, cheesy pasta bake