What Is Cheesy Gnocchi Recipe
A cheesy gnocchi recipe is a comforting dish made with potato gnocchi simmered in a creamy sauce, then baked or topped with melted cheese until golden and bubbly. It is quick to prepare, ready in under 30 minutes, and can be adapted with different cheeses or made into a vegan version.
Introduction & Personal Story
My cheesy gnocchi recipe is the dish I reach for when I want comfort fast. Soft potato gnocchi, a creamy sauce, and gooey melted cheese come together in less than thirty minutes, yet it tastes like something you would order at a restaurant.
I first made this easy cheesy gnocchi recipe on a weeknight, and it quickly became a favorite. Whether I keep it classic with gnocchi marinara or try a veggie spin like crispy gnocchi with tomato and red onion, it never disappoints. For me, it is comfort in a bowl, ready whenever I need it.
Table of Contents
Why Cheese Works So Well
Gnocchi are soft Italian dumplings, usually made from potatoes and flour. Their pillowy texture makes them perfect for soaking up creamy sauces and melted cheese. That is why a creamy cheesy gnocchi recipe always feels so comforting.
Potato gnocchi is the classic, while ricotta versions are lighter. I have even played with my gnocchi noodles for a twist. No matter the base, adding cheese turns gnocchi into a warm, irresistible dish.
Ingredients and Substitutions
What I love about this easy cheesy gnocchi recipe is that it needs just a handful of ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your kitchen. Each one adds its own touch of comfort and flavor.
Potato Gnocchi
The star of the dish. You can use store-bought for speed, or try homemade for a more rustic flavor. Both work beautifully. For variations, check out my potato gnocchi sauce recipe.
Cheese
Mozzarella for gooeyness, Parmesan for sharpness, and ricotta if you want a lighter bite. This mix makes the base of a creamy cheesy gnocchi recipe. Vegan cheese can be swapped in if you are aiming for a vegan cheesy gnocchi recipe.
Cream or Milk
Heavy cream gives the richest result, while milk or half-and-half makes a lighter sauce.
Tomato or Marinara Sauce
For a simple twist, I sometimes use gnocchi marinara. It adds a bright, tangy layer under the cheese.
Garlic and Olive Oil
Classic Italian base flavors that round out the sauce.
Spinach or Vegetables (Optional)
If you want to add greens or bulk, spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms fit perfectly into this dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Making this cheesy gnocchi recipe is easier than you might think. Follow these simple steps, and you will have a bubbling pan of comfort in no time.
1. Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about two to three minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Build the Sauce
In a skillet, warm olive oil and garlic until fragrant. Stir in cream or milk, letting it thicken slightly. For a tomato base, add a spoonful of marinara or even try my potato gnocchi sauce ideas for more inspiration.
3. Add the Cheese
Mix in Parmesan for flavor, then fold in mozzarella until it melts into a silky sauce. If you prefer something lighter, swap in ricotta or even a dairy-free cheese for a vegan cheesy gnocchi recipe.
4. Combine with Gnocchi
Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce, stirring gently to coat each piece. If the sauce feels too thick, loosen it with a splash of pasta water.
5. Bake or Broil
Transfer everything to an oven-safe dish, top with more mozzarella, and bake or broil until golden and bubbling.
6. Serve and Enjoy
Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. For a crispier finish, serve with roasted vegetables or try a twist like gnocchi and pasta sauce.
Tips, Variations, and Serving Ideas
One of the best parts about this cheesy gnocchi recipe is how versatile it can be. With just a few tweaks, you can take it from weeknight dinner to dinner-party centerpiece.
Cooking Tips
- Do not overcook the gnocchi. Once they float, they are ready.
- If your sauce feels too thick, stir in a splash of reserved pasta water.
- For extra golden cheese, broil the dish for one to two minutes before serving.
Variations
- Creamy Cheesy Gnocchi Recipe: Use a mix of cream and Parmesan for the richest result.
- Vegan Cheesy Gnocchi Recipe: Swap dairy cheese for vegan mozzarella and cream for cashew cream.
- Easy Cheesy Gnocchi Recipe: Keep it simple with store-bought gnocchi and your favorite jarred marinara.
- Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for balance.
Serving Ideas
- Pair with a crisp salad for freshness.
- Try it with crusty garlic bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
- Switch things up by serving alongside gnocchi amalfitani for a regional Italian twist.
- If you love variety, serve small portions with gnocchi feta or other baked gnocchi dishes for a family-style dinner.
Storage, Make-Ahead, and Reheating
One of the reasons I keep this cheesy gnocchi recipe in my weekly rotation is because it holds up beautifully, even the next day. With the right steps, you can prepare ahead and enjoy it without losing that creamy texture.
Storage
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.
- For longer storage, freeze in individual portions for up to one month.
Make-Ahead
- Assemble the gnocchi and sauce in a baking dish, but do not bake. Cover and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready, bake until hot and bubbly.
- This trick is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining.
Reheating
- Oven: Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and warm at 350°F until heated through.
- Skillet: Add a splash of cream or milk and reheat gently on the stove.
- Microwave: Quick, but be sure to stir halfway to keep the sauce creamy.
If you prefer a classic tomato base, you can also reheat it as you would with gnocchi marinara, keeping the flavors bright and smooth.
Nutrition, Health, and FAQ
Cheesy gnocchi is pure comfort, but it can also fit different lifestyles with a few adjustments. Here are answers to the most common questions I hear.
How to make gnocchi cheesy?
Toss cooked gnocchi in a creamy sauce, then add mozzarella or Parmesan. Bake or broil until golden for the ultimate cheesy finish.
Is gnocchi healthier for you than pasta?
Gnocchi is often denser and can be slightly higher in carbs than pasta. Ricotta or cauliflower gnocchi are lighter options if you want a balance.[Source]
What are common gnocchi mistakes?
Overcooking until mushy, forgetting to salt the water, or adding too much sauce so the gnocchi loses texture.
Can I add cream cheese to gnocchi?
Yes, cream cheese makes the sauce extra creamy. It is a shortcut for a quick creamy cheesy gnocchi recipe.
What sauce goes with cheese gnocchi?
Classic choices include marinara, Alfredo, or pesto. For inspiration, see my potato gnocchi sauce ideas.
Is gnocchi better with potato or ricotta?
Potato gnocchi is traditional, while ricotta gnocchi is lighter and softer. Both pair beautifully with cheese.
Does gnocchi spike blood sugar?
Since potato gnocchi is carb-rich, it can raise blood sugar. Pair it with vegetables or lean protein for balance.[Source]
How is gnocchi traditionally served?
In Italy, it is often paired with tomato sauce, butter and sage, or melted cheese.
Is gnocchi the same as tortellini?
No, tortellini are pasta filled with cheese or meat, while gnocchi are dumplings made from potatoes or ricotta.
Conclusion and Reader Engagement
This cheesy gnocchi recipe is one of those meals that always brings comfort, no matter the occasion. With its creamy sauce, golden melted cheese, and tender dumplings, it feels special yet comes together with ease. It has become a staple in my kitchen, and I love how adaptable it is, whether I keep it classic, make it lighter, or go all-in on rich, indulgent flavors.
I hope this recipe inspires you to try your own twist, whether it is a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy dish for sharing with friends. I would love to hear how you serve it. Do you keep it simple or add your own spin with extra veggies, sauces, or cheese?
Love what you see? Follow me on Facebook and Pinterest for more easy, delicious recipes and daily inspiration. I share behind-the-scenes tips from my kitchen every week, and it’s a wonderful way to connect beyond the recipe.
This recipe is part of my Italian Comfort Food series on HubFoodie. With love from my kitchen, Adeline.
What to Cook Next?
If you loved this cheesy gnocchi, here are more recipes from my kitchen that you will enjoy next:
Try a Mediterranean twist with my gnocchi feta recipe.
Keep it classic with gnocchi marinara, a simple tomato-based favorite.
Add variety with my potato gnocchi sauce ideas, perfect for creating endless variations.
Each of these dishes brings its own comfort and flavor, while still being easy enough for any night of the week.
Print
Cheesy Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baked / Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting cheesy gnocchi recipe with tender potato dumplings baked in a creamy sauce and topped with golden, melted cheese. Quick to prepare, easy to adapt, and perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter)
- 1 cup marinara sauce (optional for tomato base)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ½ cup ricotta cheese (optional, for creaminess)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add gnocchi and cook until they float, about 2–3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant.
- Stir in cream (and marinara if using), letting the sauce thicken slightly. Season with salt and pepper.
- Mix in Parmesan and ricotta until smooth. Fold in cooked gnocchi, coating each piece.
- Transfer to an oven-safe dish. Top with mozzarella.
- Bake at 375°F for 10–12 minutes, or broil for 2 minutes, until golden and bubbly.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Notes
For a lighter version, use ricotta gnocchi instead of potato gnocchi.
Vegan option: swap cream for cashew cream and cheese for dairy-free mozzarella.
Add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra veggies.
