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Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe

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4.1 from 9 reviews

This Gnocchi Mac and Cheese recipe delivers a comforting twist on a classic favorite using pillowy gnocchi instead of pasta. The creamy, savory cheese sauce made with Gruyère, Fontina, and Parmigiano-Reggiano coats every bite perfectly. A quick 25-minute bake creates a golden, bubbly top and rich, layered flavors that make it an irresistible side dish or main. Garnish with fresh basil for a bright touch.

  • Total Time: 40 mins
  • Yield: 6 servings

Ingredients

Gnocchi

  • 1 lb gnocchi or homemade gnocchi
  • Cooking spray

Cheese Sauce

  • 2 tbsps butter
  • 1 tsp minced garlic
  • 1 tbsp all-purpose flour
  • 3/4 cup whole milk
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • 1/4 cup shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 1/4 cup shredded Fontina cheese
  • Table salt to taste
  • White pepper to taste

Topping & Garnish

  • 1/3 cup shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano
  • Basil leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven and prepare gnocchi: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Once cooked, drain well and spread the gnocchi in a single layer in a 1.5-quart shallow baking dish that has been lightly sprayed with cooking spray.
  2. Make the roux and garlic base: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds, being careful not to burn it. Whisk in the flour and cook until it thickens and bubbles, which usually takes around 1-2 minutes.
  3. Prepare the cheese sauce: Gradually whisk in the whole milk and Dijon mustard. Continue whisking and cook the mixture until it thickens slightly, about 3-5 minutes. Then add the shredded Gruyère and Fontina cheeses in handfuls, stirring continuously to melt each addition fully before adding the next. Season the sauce with table salt and white pepper to taste.
  4. Assemble and bake: Pour the prepared cheese sauce evenly over the gnocchi in the baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese evenly over the top. Place the dish in the oven and bake until the gnocchi puff up and the cheese topping turns golden and bubbly, approximately 25 minutes.
  5. Rest and garnish: Remove the baked gnocchi from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes to set. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired to add a fragrant, fresh pop of color and flavor.

Notes

  • If making homemade gnocchi, ensure they are fully cooked before assembling.
  • For a lighter version, you can substitute whole milk with 2% milk, although the sauce may be less rich.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for best melting and flavor impact.
  • Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven to restore crispness.
  • Basil garnish is optional but adds a lovely fresh aroma and color to the dish.
  • Author: Maya
  • Prep Time: 10 mins
  • Cook Time: 25 mins
  • Category: Side Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American, Italian