Baked Gnocchi Alfredo
Golden, cheesy baked gnocchi smothered in a rich, homemade alfredo sauce. Ready in just 40 minutes, this dish offers hearty comfort without complicated steps, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or satisfying meal prep.
Equipment
- 1-Large pot
- 1 large saucepan
- 1 whisk
- 1 baking dish (9×13-inch recommended)
- Cooking Spray
Ingredients
- 2 16-ounce packages gnocchi
- ½ cup unsalted butter
- 2 cloves garlic minced
- 2 ½ cups heavy cream
- 2 cups freshly grated parmesan cheese
- 1 cup grated fontina cheese
- ½ teaspoon ground black pepper
- Optional: fresh parsley chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Baking Dish: Begin by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). While the oven warms, prepare a 9×13-inch baking dish by lightly coating it with cooking spray or a thin layer of butter. This ensures your baked gnocchi alfredo will release easily and develop a perfect golden crust without sticking to the dish.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Fill a large pot with water and bring it to a rolling boil over high heat. Add a pinch of salt and the gnocchi, cooking according to the package instructions — typically 2–3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. Once cooked, drain thoroughly using a colander and set aside. This pre-cooking step is crucial to guarantee tender gnocchi that soak up the alfredo sauce during baking.
- Melt Butter and Sauté Garlic: In a large saucepan over medium heat, add the unsalted butter and allow it to melt completely. Once melted, add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, stirring constantly. This gentle sauté releases the garlic’s aroma without browning it, creating a flavorful base for your sauce.
- Prepare the Alfredo Sauce: Slowly pour the heavy cream into the saucepan with the garlic butter, whisking constantly to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer over medium heat, whisking frequently. Let it simmer for about 3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly. This process is key for a smooth, creamy sauce that will coat your gnocchi perfectly.
- Add the Cheeses: Reduce the heat to low, then gradually stir in the grated parmesan and fontina cheeses, reserving about ½ cup of fontina for topping later. Continue whisking until all the cheese has melted and the sauce becomes thick, glossy, and luscious. Simmer for an additional 3–5 minutes, then season with freshly ground black pepper to taste.
- Coat the Gnocchi in Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi directly into the saucepan with the alfredo sauce. Gently stir to ensure every piece is coated evenly. This step is important to guarantee the gnocchi absorb the creamy flavors before baking.
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Carefully transfer the coated gnocchi and sauce into your prepared baking dish. Spread evenly to ensure uniform baking. Sprinkle the reserved ½ cup of fontina cheese evenly over the top, creating a golden, melty crust once baked.
- Bake Until Golden and Bubbling: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–30 minutes. Check occasionally to ensure the top browns without burning. The dish is ready when the cheese is bubbly, slightly golden, and the edges show a crispy texture.
- Garnish and Rest: Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley to add color, freshness, and a hint of herbaceous flavor.
- Serve and Enjoy: Serve your baked gnocchi alfredo hot, ideally alongside a crisp salad or crusty bread for balance. This dish is perfect for weeknight dinners, special occasions, or meal prep, offering rich flavors with minimal fuss.
Notes
- Always cook the gnocchi before baking to ensure they absorb the sauce and remain tender.
- Use freshly grated parmesan and fontina for the best flavor and creamy texture. Pre-grated cheese can contain anti-caking agents that may affect sauce consistency.
- Adjust seasoning with black pepper and salt after adding cheese, as cheese already adds saltiness.
- For added texture, sprinkle panko breadcrumbs or extra cheese on top before baking.
- Customize by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, spinach, broccoli, or mushrooms for a hearty variation.
