If you have a soft spot for creamy, cheesy comfort food but want to try something a little different than your usual pasta, this Gnocchi Mac & Cheese Recipe is going to sweep you off your feet. Imagine pillowy gnocchi tenderly coated in a luscious blend of Gruyere, fontina, and Parmigiano-Reggiano cheeses, all baked to bubbly, golden perfection. It’s the perfect balance of richness, subtle herbaceous notes, and that irresistible gooey texture that makes mac and cheese such a beloved classic. Once you’ve tried this cozy dish, it might just become your new go-to family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Keeping things simple is key here, and every ingredient plays a vital role in creating that dreamy, cheesy magic. From the delicate gnocchi that soak up the sauce so beautifully, to the trio of cheeses that build layers of flavor, each one adds its own special touch to this beloved Gnocchi Mac & Cheese Recipe.
- 1 pound gnocchi: The soft potato dumplings bring incredible tenderness and a wonderful texture contrast to traditional macaroni.
- 2 Tbsp butter: Used to start the sauce, butter enriches and adds a silky mouthfeel that’s absolutely essential.
- 2 tsp garlic (finely chopped): Garlic adds a subtle aromatic warmth that lifts the richness of the cheese sauce.
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour: Acts as a thickening agent for the sauce, giving it that perfect creamy consistency.
- ¾ cup milk: Provides the luscious base for the sauce, balancing creaminess without weighing it down.
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard: Adds a gentle tang and depth of flavor, keeping the cheese sauce bright and interesting.
- ¼ cup shredded Gruyere cheese: Its slightly nutty, sweet flavor melts beautifully for a rich, smooth sauce.
- ½ cup shredded fontina cheese: Fontina melts into an ultra-creamy texture, perfect for that gooey mac and cheese experience.
- 1 tsp basil: Infuses the dish with a hint of fresh, herbal brightness to balance the richness.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that enhance all the layers of flavor.
- â…“ cup shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese: Sprinkled on top for a sharp, savory crust that crisps up as it bakes.
How to Make Gnocchi Mac & Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi Base
Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF and cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. This usually means a quick boil until they float, which ensures they’re perfectly tender. Drain the gnocchi well and arrange them in a single layer in a lightly greased 10-inch quiche pan or a 9-inch baking dish. This creates a sturdy, even base for soaking up all that glorious cheese sauce later.
Step 2: Build the Cheese Sauce
Next, melt the butter over medium heat in a saucepan and gently cook the finely chopped garlic until it releases its fragrant aroma in about 30 seconds. Stir in the flour and whisk continuously until the mixture thickens and bubbles—a process called making a roux, which is the foundation of your creamy sauce. Slowly add the milk and Dijon mustard while whisking, and let it cook until slightly thickened, about 3 to 5 minutes. This gives you a smooth, velvety base ready for the cheeses.
Step 3: Melt in the Cheese and Seasonings
Remove the sauce from heat, then stir in the shredded Gruyere and fontina until they melt completely, creating a rich, stretchy sauce that hugs the gnocchi beautifully. Sprinkle in the basil, season generously with salt and pepper, and give it one last stir to marry all the flavors. This step transforms the sauce into a luscious, aromatic delight.
Step 4: Combine and Top
Pour this decadent cheese sauce evenly over the gnocchi in your baking dish, ensuring every dumpling gets coated. Finish by sprinkling the Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese across the top—that lovely sharpness will bake into a golden, crispy crust that makes this Gnocchi Mac & Cheese Recipe incredibly addictive.
Step 5: Bake to Perfection
Pop your dish uncovered into the oven and bake for 25 minutes, until the cheese is bubbling and has formed a gorgeous golden top. Once out of the oven, let it rest for about 5 minutes to allow the sauce to thicken slightly and those flavors to settle before serving up this dreamy comfort food.
How to Serve Gnocchi Mac & Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing this dish adds both color and an extra dimension of flavor. Fresh basil leaves or a sprinkle of chopped parsley bring bright green freshness that contrasts beautifully with the golden cheese topping. For a bit of texture, toasted breadcrumbs or crushed toasted walnuts can be sprinkled on top before serving to add a delightful crunch.
Side Dishes
Because this Gnocchi Mac & Cheese Recipe is rich and hearty, pairing it with light, crisp sides balances the plate wonderfully. A simple green salad with a lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness nicely, while roasted or steamed seasonal vegetables, like broccoli or asparagus, add both color and nutrition. For something a little more indulgent, garlic bread or a warm crusty baguette is perfect for sopping up any leftover cheese sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For an extra special touch, consider serving this gnocchi mac and cheese in individual ramekins for a charming, personalized presentation. Alternatively, you can layer it with crispy pancetta or caramelized onions for a gourmet twist that will dazzle guests. If you want to get playful, swirl in a spoonful of pesto or roasted red pepper sauce just before baking for pops of vibrant color and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The gnocchi will continue to absorb the sauce, becoming even more flavorful overnight. When you’re ready to eat, simply reheat gently to preserve that creamy texture.
Freezing
This Gnocchi Mac & Cheese Recipe freezes well if you want to prepare it in advance. Let the baked dish cool completely, then cover tightly with plastic wrap and aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn. It will keep for up to 2 months. When thawing, do so overnight in the fridge before reheating to maintain the best texture.
Reheating
The best way to reheat is in the oven at 325ºF, covered with foil to prevent drying out, until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. For a quicker option, use the microwave in short bursts, stirring in between, but watch the gnocchi to avoid overcooking or drying out the sauce.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this Gnocchi Mac & Cheese Recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking—they save time and still deliver that soft, pillowy texture you want.
What type of cheese can I substitute if I don’t have Gruyere or fontina?
If you can’t find Gruyere or fontina, good melting cheeses like mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or even cheddar can be used. Keep in mind they will change the flavor slightly, but the sauce will still be deliciously creamy.
Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?
You can make a dairy-free version by substituting plant-based butter and milk alternatives like unsweetened almond or oat milk. Use dairy-free cheese blends designed for melting to get a similar creamy texture, and the dish will still be wonderfully satisfying.
How spicy is the Dijon mustard in the sauce?
The Dijon mustard adds just a gentle tangy kick without overpowering the cheesy goodness. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can reduce the amount or leave it out, but it really does brighten the sauce beautifully.
Can I add other mix-ins like vegetables or proteins to this recipe?
Definitely! Roasted veggies such as mushrooms or spinach mix well into the dish, or cooked chicken and crispy bacon can make the Gnocchi Mac & Cheese Recipe even heartier. Just fold them in before baking.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Gnocchi Mac & Cheese Recipe enough for anyone craving something comforting yet a little different from your usual mac and cheese. It’s creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying with a touch of gourmet flair that’s still easy to make at home. So grab your gnocchi, gather your cheeses, and treat yourself to a dish that’s guaranteed to warm your soul and put a smile on your face every single time.
Print
Gnocchi Mac & Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Gnocchi Mac & Cheese recipe is a decadent twist on classic mac and cheese, featuring pillowy gnocchi coated in a creamy garlic cheese sauce made with Gruyere, fontina, and Parmigiano-Reggiano. Baked until golden and bubbly, it makes a comforting and elegant dish perfect for a family dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 2 Tbsp butter
- 2 tsp garlic, finely chopped
- 1 Tbsp all-purpose flour
- ¾ cup milk
- 1 tsp Dijon mustard
- ¼ cup shredded Gruyere cheese
- ½ cup shredded fontina cheese
- 1 tsp basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- â…“ cup shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese
Instructions
- Preheat and Prepare Gnocchi: Preheat your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, typically boiling until they float to the surface. Drain the gnocchi well and spread them in a single layer inside a 10-inch quiche pan or a 9-inch baking dish that has been sprayed with cooking spray to prevent sticking.
- Make the Cheese Sauce: In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the finely chopped garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until it becomes fragrant but not browned. Whisk in the all-purpose flour and cook until the mixture thickens and bubbles slightly, which helps create a roux to thicken the sauce. Gradually whisk in the milk and the Dijon mustard, continuing to whisk for 3-5 minutes until the sauce has slightly thickened.
- Add Cheeses and Seasoning: Remove the saucepan from heat. Stir in the shredded Gruyere and fontina cheeses until they melt fully into the sauce, making it creamy and smooth. Add the basil, then season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring well to combine all the flavors.
- Combine and Top: Pour the cheese sauce evenly over the prepared gnocchi in the baking dish. Sprinkle the top with the shredded Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese to add a rich, salty crust once baked.
- Bake and Serve: Bake the dish uncovered in the preheated oven for 25 minutes, or until the cheese on top is golden brown and bubbly. Once done, let the gnocchi mac and cheese rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the sauce to set slightly for the best texture.
Notes
- You can substitute milk with half-and-half or cream for a richer sauce.
- Fresh basil can be used instead of dried for a fresher herbal note.
- If you want a crispier top, broil the dish for 1-2 minutes at the end, watching carefully to avoid burning.
- To add some protein, consider mixing in cooked bacon or ham before baking.
- This dish suits vegetarian diets if using vegetarian-friendly cheeses.
