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Creamy Baked Gnocchi

Creamy Baked Gnocchi
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Creamy Baked Gnocchi is a comforting and indulgent dish featuring tender potato gnocchi bathed in a luscious, cheesy cream sauce and baked until golden and bubbly. Perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in, this recipe offers a delicious balance of soft gnocchi and a crispy cheese crust, customizable to fit various dietary preferences while filling your kitchen with inviting aromas.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients

  • 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
  • 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (50g) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup (100g) shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp butter
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tbsp fresh herbs (thyme or sage), chopped
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2 to 3 minutes. Drain carefully to avoid breaking their delicate texture.
  2. Make the Cream Sauce: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Gently sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Slowly add the heavy cream, stirring constantly to warm it. Incorporate freshly grated Parmesan cheese and cook until the sauce thickens slightly and becomes smooth.
  3. Combine Gnocchi with Sauce: Gently toss the cooked gnocchi in the cream sauce to coat every piece evenly. Stir in fresh herbs, then season well with salt and black pepper to balance the flavors.
  4. Assemble for Baking: Transfer the creamy gnocchi mixture into a buttered baking dish. Evenly top with shredded mozzarella and a little extra Parmesan cheese for a golden crust.
  5. Bake Until Golden: Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the assembled dish for 20-25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown on top. Allow it to rest for a few minutes before serving to let the sauce set.

Notes

  • Use fresh or high-quality store-bought gnocchi to ensure the best texture and flavor.
  • Do not overcook gnocchi initially; cook until they just float to keep them firm and prevent mushiness during baking.
  • Warm the cream sauce before mixing with gnocchi to help better flavor absorption.
  • Always use freshly grated cheese for a smoother melt and richer taste.
  • Let the baked dish rest before serving to allow the sauce to thicken perfectly.

Nutrition

Keywords: gnocchi, creamy baked gnocchi, comfort food, cheesy gnocchi, potato gnocchi, baked pasta, Italian recipe, gluten-free gnocchi

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