Irresistible Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole Recipe for Cozy Nights

Comfort arrives with this cheesy gnocchi casserole that promises pure culinary bliss.

Soft potato dumplings nestle beneath a golden, bubbling cheese blanket.

Weeknight dinners demand something special and satisfying.

My kitchen always feels warmer when this dish emerges from the oven.

Rich flavors meld together in a symphony of creamy goodness.

Quick preparation means you can have a hearty meal on the table in under an hour.

Prepare to fall in love with every decadent, cheese-covered bite.

Why Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole Hits the Spot

• Packed with melted cheese, hearty vegetables, and soft gnocchi, this dish guarantees smiles from kids and adults alike, making it an ideal family dinner option.
• Flexible recipe allows quick ingredient swaps like adding protein, changing vegetables, or adjusting cheese types to match personal preferences and pantry supplies.
• Minimal cleanup required with this streamlined recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a satisfying, restaurant-quality meal right in your own kitchen.

Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole Must-Haves

• Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy potato dumplings that form the hearty base of this comforting casserole.
• Diced Tomatoes: Juicy tomatoes that provide a tangy and fresh flavor to the sauce.
• Mozzarella Cheese, Parmesan Cheese: Creamy and sharp cheeses that create a rich, melty topping for the casserole.

• Onion, Garlic, Bell Pepper: Aromatic vegetables that build a flavorful foundation for the dish.

• Olive Oil: Provides a smooth base for sautéing vegetables and adding depth to the sauce.
• Heavy Cream: Adds richness and creates a velvety texture to the sauce.
• Italian Seasoning, Salt, Pepper: Classic herbs and spices that enhance the overall flavor profile of the casserole.

Making Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole at Home

Step 1: Fire Up the Oven

Turn on your oven and set the temperature to 375F (190C).

Get ready for a delicious meal that’ll make your kitchen smell amazing.

Step 2: Sauté Veggie Magic

Grab a large skillet and warm up some olive oil over medium heat.

• Chopped onions
• Minced garlic
• Diced bell peppers

Cook until the onions turn soft and slightly transparent, about 3-4 minutes.

The kitchen will start smelling fantastic!

Step 3: Create Dreamy Sauce

• Drained diced tomatoes
• Heavy cream

Sprinkle in Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.

Let the sauce simmer gently for 5 minutes, allowing all the flavors to mingle and dance together.

Step 4: Cook Gnocchi Pillows

Fill a pot with water and add a pinch of salt.

Bring to a rolling boil.

Drop in the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface.

Drain the water, keeping those soft potato pillows ready.

Step 5: Marry Gnocchi and Sauce

Carefully fold the cooked gnocchi into the sauce.

Make sure each little dumpling gets coated in the creamy mixture.

Step 6: Prepare for Cheesy Bliss

Transfer the gnocchi mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.

• Mozzarella cheese
• Parmesan cheese

Step 7: Bake to Perfection

Slide the dish into the preheated oven.

Bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese turns golden and starts bubbling around the edges.

Step 8: Serve and Enjoy

Let the casserole rest for 5 minutes.

This helps it set and makes serving easier.

Optional: Scatter some fresh herbs on top for an extra pop of color and flavor.

Tips for Gnocchi Casserole Done Right

• Opt for vacuum-sealed or refrigerated gnocchi instead of frozen for better texture and faster cooking.
• Drain gnocchi thoroughly and avoid overcooking to maintain a tender, light consistency in the casserole.
• Mix different cheese varieties like sharp cheddar or fontina with mozzarella for a more complex, rich taste profile.
• Swap bell peppers with zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms to add variety and extra nutrition to the dish.
• Use gluten-free gnocchi and verify all ingredient labels to create a celiac-friendly version of this comforting meal.

Store and Reheat Gnocchi Casserole Easily

• Store leftovers in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. Seal tightly and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days to maintain freshness and prevent bacterial growth.
• Transfer cooled casserole to a freezer-safe container or wrap securely with plastic wrap and aluminum foil. Freeze for maximum 2 months. Label container with date and contents.
• Place individual portions on microwave-safe plate. Cover with damp paper towel to prevent drying. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through to ensure even warming.
• Preheat oven to 350F. Place casserole in oven-safe dish, cover with foil to prevent cheese from burning. Warm for 15-20 minutes until heated completely. Remove foil during last 5 minutes to restore cheese's crispy texture.

What Pairs Nicely with Cheesy Gnocchi

• Pair with Crisp White Wine: Select a bright, acidic Italian white like Pinot Grigio or Vermentino that cuts through the rich, creamy cheese and complements the tomato sauce's tanginess.
• Serve with Herbed Garlic Bread: Prepare crusty Italian bread toasted with garlic butter and fresh parsley to soak up the delicious sauce and add a crunchy texture contrast.
• Match with Fresh Arugula Salad: Create a light salad with peppery arugula, lemon vinaigrette, and shaved Parmesan to balance the casserole's heaviness and provide a refreshing side.
• Complement with Dry Red Wine: Choose a medium-bodied Italian red like Chianti or Sangiovese with enough acidity to cut through the rich cheese and enhance the tomato flavors.

Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole Spin-Off Ideas

• Vegetarian Delight: Swap out gnocchi for cauliflower gnocchi and use plant-based cream and cheese alternatives for a lighter, dairy-free version.
• Low-Carb Option: Replace traditional potato gnocchi with zucchini or cauliflower gnocchi to reduce carbohydrate content and create a keto-friendly meal.
• Spicy Herb Remix: Add red pepper flakes, fresh basil, and swap mozzarella for pepper jack cheese to create a zesty, flavor-packed casserole with extra kick.
• Mediterranean Inspired: Incorporate spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and replace diced tomatoes with sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean-style gnocchi bake.

FAQs

• What are gnocchi?

Gnocchi are soft, pillowy Italian dumplings typically made from potatoes, flour, and eggs. They have a tender texture and serve as a delicious alternative to pasta in many dishes.

• Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! This cheesy gnocchi casserole is already vegetarian. You can easily keep it as is or add extra vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more nutrition.

• Is this dish kid-friendly?

Yes, children usually love this casserole because of its cheesy, comforting nature. The mild flavors and soft texture make it appealing to younger palates. The combination of gnocchi and melted cheese creates a crowd-pleasing meal that most kids enjoy.

• How can I ensure my gnocchi doesn't become mushy?

Cook gnocchi just until they float to the surface of the boiling water, which indicates they are done. Avoid overcooking, and drain them immediately. Gently fold them into the sauce to maintain their delicate texture.

Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole Recipe

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4.5 from 31 reviews

• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

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Description

Hearty Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole delivers comfort straight from Italian kitchens, melding pillowy potato dumplings with rich, melted cheese. Creamy layers and golden-brown edges promise a soul-warming meal that welcomes you to savor each delightful, indulgent bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Main Ingredients:

• 1 pound (454 grams) potato gnocchi
• 2 cups (226 grams) shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup (50 grams) grated Parmesan cheese

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 2 tablespoons (30 milliliters) olive oil
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced (any color)

Liquid and Seasoning Ingredients:

• 1 can (14.5 ounces / 411 grams) diced tomatoes, drained
• 1 cup (240 milliliters) heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Garnish:

• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C), creating an ideal environment for a bubbling, golden casserole.
2. In a large skillet, sauté onions in olive oil over medium heat until they become translucent and fragrant, approximately 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and bell peppers to the skillet, continuing to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until vegetables are softened and aromatic.
4. Pour diced tomatoes into the vegetable mixture, introducing heavy cream and stirring to create a rich, creamy base.
5. Season the sauce with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper, allowing it to simmer on low heat for 5 minutes to develop deep flavors.
6. Simultaneously, bring a separate pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook gnocchi until they float to the surface, indicating they are perfectly tender.
7. Drain the gnocchi and gently fold them into the prepared sauce, ensuring each pillow-like dumpling is evenly coated.
8. Transfer the gnocchi and sauce mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, creating an inviting base for the casserole.
9. Generously sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese across the top, creating a tempting golden-brown crust.
10. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes until the cheese melts completely and develops a bubbly, slightly crispy texture.
11. Remove from the oven and allow the casserole to rest for 5 minutes, helping the dish set and cool slightly.
12. Optional: Garnish with fresh herbs to add a burst of color and fresh flavor before serving.

Notes

• Choose firmer gnocchi varieties to prevent turning mushy during baking, ensuring a perfect texture that holds its shape throughout cooking.
• Opt for fresh mozzarella to create a creamier, more luxurious cheese topping that melts beautifully and adds rich flavor complexity.
• Consider adding protein like cooked chicken or crispy pancetta for extra substance, transforming this dish into a more substantial meal.
• For gluten-free adaptation, use gluten-free gnocchi and verify all ingredient labels to maintain dietary restrictions without compromising taste.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Category: Dinner, Lunch
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 4
• Calories: 564
• Sugar: 4 g
• Sodium: 645 mg
• Fat: 38 g
• Saturated Fat: 18 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 20 g
• Trans Fat: 0 g
• Carbohydrates: 42 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 19 g
• Cholesterol: 88 mg