Cheesy Spinach Gnocchi Bake

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 4

Equipment:
Large pot
colander
9×13 inch baking dish
mixing bowl
spoon
oven

Cuisine Type: Italian-American

This Cheesy Spinach Gnocchi Bake is a comforting and delicious dish that combines soft, pillowy gnocchi with a creamy spinach sauce and a generous layer of melted cheese. It’s a fantastic way to incorporate greens into your meal while satisfying your cheese cravings.

Perfect for weeknight dinners or as a cozy dish for gatherings, this bake will become a family favorite in no time. The combination of sautéed spinach, ricotta, and mozzarella creates a creamy base that clings beautifully to the gnocchi. Topped with even more cheese and baked until bubbly and golden, this dish is both hearty and indulgent.

Serve it with a simple green salad and some crusty bread for a complete meal that’s sure to impress even the pickiest eaters.

Ingredients:

1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1/2 cup milk
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Instructions:

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface, usually about 2-3 minutes. Drain using a colander and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted, approximately 2-3 minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.
In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, half of the mozzarella, half of the Parmesan, milk, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Stir in the sautéed spinach until well incorporated.
Add the cooked gnocchi to the spinach and cheese mixture, gently folding to combine everything evenly. Pour the mixture into a greased 9×13 inch baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan over the top of the gnocchi mixture. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with a golden brown crust.
Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the dish to set slightly, making it easier to serve.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor, consider adding some cooked sausage or ground beef to the spinach mixture before baking for a heartier meal. You can also experiment with different types of cheese, such as fontina or gouda, for a unique twist. For a little kick, try adding red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the cheese mixture.

Enjoy your cheesy, comforting bake!