This creamy baked gnocchi brie mac and cheese is a warm hug in a bowl! The soft gnocchi mixes perfectly with gooey brie cheese for a meal that’s super cheesy and comforting.
You won’t believe how easy it is to make! Just mix it all together, bake, and enjoy. Warning: it might be hard to stop eating once you start! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gnocchi: This recipe shines with gnocchi, which is pillowy and perfect for holding the sauce. You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own with potatoes if you’re feeling adventurous!
Brie Cheese: Brie adds rich creaminess. If you can’t find it, try camembert or even cream cheese for a similar texture. The flavor will be different but delicious in its own way!
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its bold flavor. If you’re looking for a milder taste, use medium cheddar or even mozzarella, but keep in mind it won’t have the same bite.
Heavy Cream: This gives the dish its luscious texture. If you’re seeking a lighter option, half-and-half works well, though the result may be slightly less creamy.
Butter and Flour: Used for making the roux, these are key. If you need a dairy-free version, try using coconut oil and gluten-free flour, or a cornstarch slurry for thickening.
How Do You Make Creamy Cheese Sauce Without Lumps?
Creating a smooth cheese sauce is essential for this dish. Follow these tips to avoid lumps:
- Start with a roux: Melt butter and mix in flour. Cooking it for a minute helps remove the floury taste.
- Whisk constantly: As you add milk and cream, keep whisking to ensure everything combines well and prevents lumps.
- Control the heat: Keep the mixture at medium heat to gently thicken without scorching or clumping.
- Add cheese slowly: Once the mixture is thickened, stir in cheese gradually, allowing each addition to melt before adding more.
By following these steps, you’ll end up with a smooth and creamy cheese sauce that coats your gnocchi perfectly!
How to Make Creamy Baked Gnocchi Brie Mac and Cheese
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Main Dish:
- 1 lb (450g) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 oz (230g) brie cheese, rind removed and cut into small pieces
- 1 ½ cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp mustard powder
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy baked gnocchi brie mac and cheese will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake, for a total time of about 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and lightly grease a baking dish with some cooking spray or butter to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Gnocchi:
Next, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the gnocchi to the pot. Let them cook until they float to the surface, which takes about 2 minutes. Once they do, drain the gnocchi and set them aside.
3. Make the Cheese Sauce:
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook it for about 1-2 minutes until it becomes lightly golden—this is your roux! Now, slowly drizzle in the milk and heavy cream while whisking constantly to avoid any lumps. Cook this mixture for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon.
4. Add the Cheeses:
Lower the heat and add the brie pieces, cheddar cheese, garlic powder, mustard powder, salt, and pepper to the thickened sauce. Stir everything together until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is completely smooth.
5. Combine the Mixture:
Gently mix the cooked gnocchi into the creamy cheese sauce, making sure every piece is coated evenly. This cheesy goodness is what makes this dish so special!
6. Prepare for Baking:
Transfer the cheesy gnocchi mixture into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top to give it that extra golden crust.
7. Bake It:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the top is beautifully golden and bubbly. Your kitchen will smell incredible!
8. Cool and Serve:
Once it’s out of the oven, let the dish cool for a few minutes. Before serving, sprinkle some chopped fresh parsley on top for a pop of color and added flavor.
Enjoy your rich, creamy, and indulgent baked gnocchi brie mac and cheese! It’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
FAQ for Creamy Baked Gnocchi Brie Mac and Cheese
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While brie and sharp cheddar create a rich flavor, feel free to experiment with other cheeses. Camembert, mozzarella, or even gouda can work well in this recipe. Just remember to keep the quantities similar to maintain the creamy texture.
What If I Don’t Have Gnocchi?
If gnocchi isn’t available, you can substitute it with any pasta of your choice, such as macaroni, penne, or fusilli. Just cook the pasta according to the package instructions before mixing it with the cheese sauce.
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, simply add a few extra minutes to the baking time, as it will be cold from the fridge.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions, stirring occasionally for even heating.