Description
This Three Cheese Mac and Cheese Gnocchi recipe combines pillowy gnocchi with a rich and creamy three-cheese sauce made from parmesan, mozzarella, and cheddar. Baked to perfection with a golden mozzarella topping, this comforting dish is perfect for mac and cheese lovers looking for a delicious twist.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons flour
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon mustard powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F and position the oven rack in the top third of the oven for optimal baking.
- Make Roux: Melt 2 tablespoons of butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat, then add 2 tablespoons of flour. Cook while stirring frequently until the mixture turns a light golden brown and smells nutty, about 3 minutes.
- Prepare Cheese Sauce: Slowly whisk in 2 cups of whole milk, then add garlic powder, mustard powder, and salt. Continue whisking constantly to prevent scorching until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon, about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Add Cheeses and Gnocchi: Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese and 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese until melted. Then fold in 1 pound of uncooked potato gnocchi evenly into the sauce.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the gnocchi mixture. Bake uncovered for 20 minutes at 375°F.
- Broil to Brown Cheese: After baking, broil the dish for a few minutes until the mozzarella topping is bubbly and golden brown. Watch carefully to prevent burning.
- Cool and Serve: Let the baked gnocchi cool for 5 minutes before serving to ensure the sauce sets slightly and safety in eating.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe skillet for seamless transition from stovetop to oven.
- Constantly whisk the sauce to prevent milk from scorching and ensure smooth texture.
- Adjust seasoning to taste; additional pepper can enhance flavor.
- Keep a close eye during broiling—cheese can burn quickly under high heat.
- For a lighter option, consider using low-fat milk but sauce thickness and creaminess may vary.
