If you are ready to elevate comfort food to a whole new level, this Three Cheese Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe is exactly what you need. Creamy, cheesy, and delightfully pillowy thanks to the gnocchi, this dish brings together cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella in perfect harmony. It’s not your typical mac and cheese—this version is indulgent, rich, and oh-so-satisfying. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or looking to impress guests with a soul-warming favorite, this recipe will quickly become a household hit.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Three Cheese Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe comes from a handful of simple yet impactful ingredients. Each one plays a critical role in delivering the signature creamy texture, cheesy depth, and comforting warmth of this dish.
- Butter: Adds richness and helps create the roux, which is the foundation of the cheese sauce.
- Flour: Works with butter to thicken the sauce perfectly without lumps.
- Whole milk: Adds creaminess and smoothness to the sauce, making every bite luscious.
- Garlic powder: Provides subtle aromatic depth without overpowering the cheese.
- Mustard powder: A secret step for a slight tang that brightens up the sauce.
- Salt: Enhances all the flavors and balances the richness.
- Cheddar (shredded): Gives a sharp, classic mac and cheese flavor that’s irresistible.
- Parmesan cheese (freshly grated): Adds a nutty, salty complexity to the blend.
- Potato gnocchi (uncooked): The star ingredient that replaces pasta, offering pillowy softness and a unique twist.
- Mozzarella (shredded): Melts beautifully to create a gooey, golden crust on top.
How to Make Three Cheese Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe
Step 1: Get Your Oven Ready
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F and position the rack in the top third. This placement is key for that perfect browning during the final broil step, giving your mac and cheese an irresistible golden top.
Step 2: Make the Roux Base
Melt the butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the flour and cook it gently while stirring frequently. You’ll want to keep an eye on it until the smell turns lightly nutty and the color shifts to a soft golden brown—about 3 minutes. This step is essential for developing depth without a raw flour taste, setting the stage for a luscious sauce.
Step 3: Whisk in the Milk and Seasonings
Next, slowly whisk in the whole milk, working steadily to keep the mixture smooth. Add the garlic powder, mustard powder, and salt. Continue whisking the sauce constantly until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon—picture a consistency similar to Alfredo sauce. This usually takes around 5 to 7 minutes. Patience here is key since stopping can cause the milk to scorch.
Step 4: Stir in the Cheeses and Gnocchi
Remove the skillet from the heat and immediately stir in the cheddar and Parmesan cheeses until melted and silky. Then fold in the uncooked potato gnocchi, ensuring every pillow-soft bite gets coated in that cheesy goodness.
Step 5: Top and Bake
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the skillet. Pop the dish into the oven and bake, uncovered, for 20 minutes. For a beautifully browned and bubbly crust, switch to broil for a few minutes at the end but keep a close watch so the cheese doesn’t burn—that perfect golden finish is worth the attention.
Step 6: Cool Slightly Before Serving
Once out of the oven, let your Three Cheese Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe rest for about 5 minutes. This brief cool-down helps the sauce settle and thickens just enough to make each bite comforting and cohesive without losing its creamy charm.
How to Serve Three Cheese Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing isn’t just about looks—it elevates the flavor and texture profile. Consider sprinkling freshly chopped parsley or chives over your dish for a pop of color and a fresh, herbal contrast. A light dusting of smoked paprika or cracked black pepper can add warmth and complexity, making every bite more interesting.
Side Dishes
This cheesy gnocchi masterpiece pairs brilliantly with simple sides that balance its richness. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette, steamed or roasted vegetables like broccoli or asparagus, or even a light tomato-based side can bring brightness and freshness to the plate, making the meal well-rounded and satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the mac and cheese in individual ramekins or mini cast iron skillets for an elegant touch. You can also try mixing in sautéed mushrooms, caramelized onions, or crispy bacon before baking to add layers of flavor. For gatherings, consider making it part of a buffet spread to wow guests with its unique twist on a classic comfort food.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Your Three Cheese Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe will keep well for 3 to 4 days, retaining most of its creamy texture (though the gnocchi may soften further).
Freezing
This dish freezes surprisingly well. To freeze, cool completely and transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to keep the cheese sauce silky. You can also microwave portions, adding a splash of milk to revive the creaminess. Just be careful not to overcook or dry it out.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought potato gnocchi works perfectly and cuts down on prep time. Just ensure they are fresh or thawed if frozen before adding to the sauce.
Can I substitute the cheeses in the Three Cheese Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe?
Yes, you can customize the cheese blend to your liking. Try swapping cheddar for gouda or Monterey Jack, and Parmesan for Asiago for a unique twist, but keep at least one sharp cheese for flavor balance.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this dish gluten-free, use gluten-free flour to make the roux and check that your gnocchi is gluten-free as well. Many brands offer gluten-free potato gnocchi options nowadays.
Why do we broil the mac and cheese at the end?
Broiling adds a deliciously crispy, golden crust to the top layer of cheese, creating a wonderful contrast with the creamy interior that makes every bite exciting.
Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?
You can make the cheese sauce a day ahead and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, stir in the gnocchi and mozzarella, then proceed with baking as directed.
Final Thoughts
I can’t recommend this Three Cheese Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe enough if you’re looking to cozy up with something irresistibly cheesy and comforting. It’s simple, satisfying, and different from your everyday mac and cheese, making it an instant favorite at any table. Give this recipe a try and watch it become your go-to for those nights when you crave something warm, cheesy, and unforgettable!
Print
Three Cheese Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
This Three Cheese Mac and Cheese Gnocchi recipe is a rich and comforting twist on classic mac and cheese, featuring tender potato gnocchi smothered in a creamy blend of cheddar, parmesan, and mozzarella cheeses. Baked to golden perfection with a bubbly, browned cheese topping, this dish delivers decadent cheesy flavors with a soft, pillowy texture that’s perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in.
Ingredients
Cheese Sauce
- 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
Other
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375F and position the rack in the top third portion of the oven to ensure even baking and browning.
- Make the Roux: Melt the butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook it while continuously stirring until the mixture becomes fragrant and turns light golden brown, about 3 minutes, developing a nutty base for the sauce.
- Add Milk and Seasonings: Slowly whisk in the whole milk to prevent lumps, then add garlic powder, mustard powder, and salt. Continue whisking constantly over medium heat until the sauce thickens, coats the back of a spoon, and achieves a creamy Alfredo-like consistency, taking approximately 5 to 7 minutes.
- Incorporate Cheeses and Gnocchi: Remove the skillet from heat and immediately stir in the shredded cheddar and grated parmesan cheeses until melted and smooth. Then fold in the uncooked potato gnocchi, making sure they are evenly coated with the cheese sauce.
- Top and Bake: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top of the skillet. Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes until bubbly. Then, switch to broil for a few minutes to achieve a golden brown and slightly crisp cheese crust, monitoring carefully to avoid burning.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the skillet from the oven and let the dish cool for 5 minutes before serving, allowing the sauce to thicken slightly and the flavors to meld.
Notes
- Use an oven-safe skillet or transfer the gnocchi and sauce mixture to a baking dish before adding mozzarella and baking.
- For a crispier top, broil only when the cheese is bubbly and golden, watching carefully to prevent burning.
- Feel free to substitute whole milk with 2% milk for a lighter version, though the sauce may be slightly less creamy.
- Do not overcook the gnocchi in advance as they will cook slightly during baking.
- Additional herbs like fresh thyme or parsley can be added for extra flavor.
