gnocchi mac and cheese recipe

Written ByJenny Smyth Posted on
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The Best gnocchi mac and cheese recipe

I am absolutely thrilled to share with you my family’s favorite gnocchi mac and cheese recipe. This comforting dish has been a staple in our household for years, and it never fails to put a smile on everyone’s face.

The combination of soft gnocchi, creamy macaroni cheese sauce, and a crunchy breadcrumb topping is a match made in heaven. As a busy mom, I appreciate how easy it is to make this recipe, and it’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special event.

My kids love helping me prepare the ingredients, and they’re always excited to taste the final product. In fact, this recipe has become a tradition in our household, and we make it at least once a month.

The best part? It’s incredibly easy to customize to suit everyone’s tastes, from adding different types of cheese to incorporating veggies for added nutrition.

I’ve experimented with various cheeses, herbs, and spices over the years, but the core recipe remains the same. And let me tell you, it’s always a crowd-pleaser!

The secret lies in using high-quality ingredients, such as fresh pasta and real butter. This gnocchi mac and cheese recipe is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that brings people together.

Gnocchi Mac and Cheese

4.8 from 1713 votes

A comforting twist on traditional mac and cheese, this recipe combines tender gnocchi with a rich, velvety cheese sauce. Perfect for a hearty meal, this dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Prep Time15 mins
Cook Time30 mins
Resting Time0 mins
Total Time45 mins
Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 350 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

2 lbs potatoes
2 cups flour
1 tsp salt
1 egg

For the Cheese Sauce

4 tbsp butter
4 tbsp flour
4 cups whole milk
4 cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 tsp salt
1/2 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder

👨‍🍳Directions

1Preheat the oven to 375°F.
2Peel and dice the potatoes into 1 inch cubes, then boil them in salted water until tender.
3This will take about 10-15 minutes.
4They should easily be pierced with a fork.
5While the potatoes are boiling, combine flour and salt in a large mixing bowl.
6Once the potatoes are done, drain them and mash them while they are still hot.
7Allow the mashed potatoes to cool slightly, then mix in the egg and flour until a dough forms.
8On a lightly floured surface, roll out the dough into a long rope about 1 inch in diameter.
9Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces and place them on a baking sheet.
10Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
11Cook the gnocchi in batches until they float to the top, about 2-3 minutes.
12Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
13In a saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter.
14Add the flour and whisk to form a roux.
15Cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
16Gradually add the milk, whisking continuously until the sauce thickens.
17This should take about 5-7 minutes.
18The sauce should coat the back of a spoon.
19Add the shredded cheddar cheese to the sauce, stirring until it is fully melted and the sauce is smooth.
20Season with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
21Add the cooked gnocchi to the cheese sauce, stirring to combine.
22Transfer the gnocchi and cheese sauce to a greased baking dish.
23Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and bubbly.
24Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving.

🔧Equipment

Mixing bowl
Pasta pot
Wooden spoon
Saucepan
Baking dish
Oven

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 350 kcal🧈Total Fat: 12g💛Saturated Fat: 5g❤️Cholesterol: 30mg🧂Sodium: 600mg🌾Total Carbs: 45g🥦Dietary Fiber: 3g🍬Sugars: 5g🥩Protein: 15g

📝Notes

Tips: You can substitute whole wheat flour for a healthier option. Add additional vegetables like spinach or broccoli for extra nutrition.

Watch Video Of How Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Works

This gnocchi mac and cheese recipe is an absolute winner in our household. It’s perfect for any occasion – whether you’re looking for a comforting meal after a long day or want to impress your guests with a show-stopping dish at your next gathering.

One of my favorite things about this recipe is how versatile it is – feel free to customize it to suit your tastes by adding different types of cheese or veggies. Plus, it freezes beautifully so you can enjoy leftovers later on.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Gnocchi Mac and Cheese

Q1: What type of pasta is best for gnocchi mac and cheese?

A1: For this recipe, I recommend using either store-bought or homemade potato gnocchi or even cauliflower gnocchi for a low-carb option. The key is to choose a type of pasta that holds onto the cheese sauce well.

Q2: Can I use different types of cheese?

A2: Yes! Feel free to mix and match your favorite cheeses for a unique flavor profile. Some popular options include Parmesan, Cheddar, Gruyère, or even vegan alternatives like soy-based cheese or nutritional yeast.

Q3: How do I prevent the breadcrumbs from getting soggy?

A3: To achieve the perfect crunchy topping, make sure to sprinkle the breadcrumbs evenly over the top of the dish before baking. Also, avoid overcrowding the baking dish as this can lead to steaming instead of browning.

Q4: Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

A4: While it’s possible to prepare some components ahead of time (such as cooking the pasta or making the cheese sauce), I recommend assembling and baking the dish just before serving for optimal results.

Q5: Is there a way to reduce the calorie count without sacrificing flavor?

A5: Absolutely! Consider using lower-fat cheese alternatives or reducing the amount of butter used in the breadcrumb topping.

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