Creamy Baked Gnocchi Recipe

A comforting, creamy baked gnocchi dish that’s rich, cheesy, and satisfying—perfect for cozy dinners or easy weeknight meals.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how this recipe transforms simple store-bought gnocchi into something decadent. The sauce is creamy and cheesy, the texture is soft yet hearty, and the spinach adds a nice pop of freshness. It’s a one-pan comfort meal that feels luxurious without needing much effort.

Ingredients

(Note: All ingredient amounts are listed in the recipe card below.)

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)

Directions

1. Preheat the oven to 375 °F (190 °C).
2. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, usually boiling for 2–3 minutes until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large oven-safe skillet or saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until softened.
4. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Pour in the heavy cream and chicken (or vegetable) broth, stirring to combine. Bring to a gentle simmer.
6. Stir in the mozzarella, Parmesan, and Italian seasoning until the cheeses melt and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. If using, add the baby spinach and stir until it wilts slightly.
9. Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce, tossing to coat evenly.
10. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven (or pour the mixture into a baking dish) and bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes, until the top is bubbly and lightly golden.
11. Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with chopped fresh parsley before serving.

Servings and Timing

Serves: 4–6
Active prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: about 35 minutes

Variations

• Add cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or shrimp for added protein.
• Stir in sun-dried tomatoes, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra flavor.
• Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
• Swap mozzarella for provolone or fontina for a different cheese profile.
• Make it vegetarian by using vegetable broth and skipping meat-based additions.

Storage/Reheating

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, I warm it in a covered dish in the oven at 350 °F (175 °C) until heated through, or in the microwave for 1–2 minutes, stirring halfway. If the sauce thickens, I add a splash of cream or milk to loosen it.

FAQs

Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Yes—homemade gnocchi works beautifully. I just make sure it’s slightly firm so it holds up during baking.

Can I skip baking and serve it straight from the skillet?

Absolutely—the sauce is already creamy and ready to serve once combined with the gnocchi. Baking just adds a golden, bubbly top.

How do I keep the sauce from separating?

I avoid boiling the cream once cheese is added and stir gently until smooth.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, I assemble the dish up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Then I bake when ready to serve.

Is it possible to make it gluten-free?

Yes—use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure the broth and seasonings are gluten-free.

Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

I can, but the sauce will be thinner. Adding extra cheese can help thicken it slightly.

How can I make it spicier?

I add a pinch of red pepper flakes or stir in a bit of spicy Italian sausage.

Can I freeze baked gnocchi?

It’s best fresh, but I can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 1 month. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

What’s the best cheese combination?

I love mozzarella for meltiness and Parmesan for flavor, but Asiago or Gruyère also work great.

What sides go well with it?

A crisp green salad or garlic bread complements the richness perfectly.

Conclusion

This Creamy Baked Gnocchi Recipe is one of my favorite comfort dishes—simple to make, indulgent to eat, and endlessly versatile. The creamy sauce, tender gnocchi, and melted cheese make every bite irresistible, and I always find myself going back for seconds.

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