Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach Recipe

Craving comfort food that checks all the right boxes? This Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach is pure joy in casserole form. Tender potato gnocchi float in a savory, creamy tomato sauce, swirled with ribbons of fresh baby spinach, and generously blanketed in a trio of gooey cheeses—the very definition of weeknight-worthy decadence. In just over half an hour, you’ll find yourself dishing up bubbling, cheesy spoonfuls of Italian-inspired satisfaction that taste as impressive at a casual family table as they do at a dinner party. Trust me: once you experience the melty magic of Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach, you’ll run out of reasons not to make it again and again!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The magic of this dish lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role—whether it’s building the rich base, adding creamy tang, or giving that iconic stretchy cheese pull. Gather everything ahead for a smooth cooking flow!

  • Potato Gnocchi (1 lb): These pillowy dumplings offer a chewy, satisfying bite and soak up all the saucy goodness.
  • Olive Oil (1 tablespoon): Brings fragrance and helps the garlic infuse its flavor right into the base of your sauce.
  • Garlic (2 cloves, minced): The unmistakable backbone of Italian flavor that wakes up every other ingredient.
  • Marinara Sauce (1 cup): Creates a bright, tangy, tomato-rich foundation—opt for your favorite jarred or homemade version.
  • Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Whips up a plush, velvety texture and transforms the sauce into pure luxury.
  • Dried Oregano (1/2 teaspoon): Adds depth and that classic Italian herb aroma.
  • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Provides a gentle kick—add more or less to suit your heat tolerance.
  • Salt and Black Pepper (to taste): Perfectly balances all the flavors and seasoning.
  • Fresh Baby Spinach (2 cups): Wilts into the dish for a pop of green and a nutritious boost.
  • Ricotta Cheese (1/2 cup): Brings lightness and creamy richness, making the filling soft and luscious.
  • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1/2 cup): Ensures maximum gooey stretch and a crowd-pleasing cheesy top.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup): Gives savory, salty depth, and beautiful golden color when baked.
  • Fresh Basil (optional, for garnish): A fragrant finishing touch that lifts each cheesy bite.

How to Make Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach

Step 1: Preheat and Prep

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s all set for baking magic the moment your gnocchi skillet is assembled. This step ensures a bubbly, cheese-topped finish and a piping hot casserole at dinnertime.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, then toss in your potato gnocchi. You’re looking for them to float (it takes just 2–3 minutes) to guarantee they’re perfectly tender and airy without overcooking. Drain them swiftly, then set aside.

Step 3: Sauté Garlic and Build the Sauce

Grab a large oven-safe skillet or sauté pan and warm up the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the minced garlic, stirring for about 30 seconds—just until it’s fragrant and barely golden. Now, pour in the marinara sauce, swirl in the heavy cream, and sprinkle in oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), plus salt and pepper to taste. Let this mixture simmer together for a couple of minutes, melding into a rich, creamy tomato sauce.

Step 4: Wilt the Spinach

Time for your greens! Add the fresh baby spinach straight into the bubbling sauce. Stir constantly for 1–2 minutes, watching as the spinach softens and turns a vibrant green—this means it’s perfectly wilted and ready for the next step.

Step 5: Combine and Add Ricotta

Fold the cooked gnocchi and the creamy ricotta cheese into the pan, stirring with gentle enthusiasm. Make sure every gnocchi pillow is coated in sauce and every bite will have pockets of warm, melty ricotta—the stuff of carb-lover dreams!

Step 6: Top and Bake

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan evenly across the top for that signature cheese-laden finish. Slide the skillet into your preheated oven and bake for 15–20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling.

Step 7: Broil (Optional) and Garnish

If you’re after an irresistibly browned, crispy cheese layer, give your skillet an extra 1–2 minutes under the broiler. Be sure to watch closely—cheese goes from golden to charred in a flash! Once out, crown with torn fresh basil for extra color and an herbaceous pop.

How to Serve Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach

Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach Recipe - Recipe Image

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly torn basil or even a little extra Parmesan can make every plate look restaurant-ready. For a dash of extra freshness, a few grinds of black pepper on top add a lovely aromatic note as well.

Side Dishes

Pair this indulgent Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach with a crisp green salad or a loaf of warm, crusty bread to capture every last bit of the sauce. Roasted vegetables or a tangy vinaigrette-dressed arugula salad balance out the richness perfectly.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving individual portions in small oven-safe ramekins for a dinner party twist—everyone gets their own bubbling mini casserole! Alternatively, scoop over a bed of sautéed greens or even roasted spaghetti squash for a playful, veggie-packed presentation.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Let it cool fully before packing it away to avoid excess condensation, which can soften the cheesy top.

Freezing

For longer-term storage, assemble the dish right up to the baking step, then cover tightly and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before baking as directed, adding a few extra minutes until steaming hot.

Reheating

To revive those leftovers, reheat in a 350°F oven for 15–20 minutes until hot and bubbling, or simply microwave in short bursts until thoroughly warmed through. For extra melty cheese, add a sprinkle of mozzarella before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen spinach instead of fresh?

Yes! Thawed and well-drained frozen spinach works nicely. Squeeze out as much moisture as possible before adding, so the sauce doesn’t get watery. Use about 1 cup of frozen spinach to replace the fresh.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Absolutely—just use gluten-free gnocchi, which is widely available in stores or can be made at home. Double-check your marinara sauce label for gluten-containing additives if you’re cooking for someone with celiac or severe gluten intolerance.

Can I make Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach ahead of time?

You can assemble everything up to the baking step, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, bake directly from the fridge, adding an extra 5–7 minutes to the cook time so it heats through fully.

What protein can I add for a heartier meal?

For a protein boost, fold in cooked sliced chicken breast, crumbled Italian sausage, or even white beans before topping with cheese. This turns your Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach into a more filling entrée.

Do I need to use all three cheeses?

While each cheese brings something unique—ricotta for creaminess, mozzarella for stretch, and Parmesan for salty depth—you can certainly improvise based on what you have. Even just mozzarella and Parmesan still make for a mouthwatering bake!

Final Thoughts

If you adore easy, crave-worthy comfort food, you owe it to yourself to try Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach. The creamy sauce, molten cheese, and pop of fresh greens guarantee smiles around the dinner table. Give it a whirl—and don’t be surprised when it becomes your new go-to favorite!

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Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach Recipe

Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.9 from 22 reviews
  • Author: cozykitcheneats
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in the creamy and cheesy goodness of Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach. This comforting Italian dish combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a trio of cheeses, fresh spinach, and a flavorful marinara cream sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner!


Ingredients

Units Scale

Potato Gnocchi:

  • 1 lb (16 oz) potato gnocchi

Sauce:

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste

Additional:

  • 2 cups fresh baby spinach
  • 1/2 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Fresh basil, for garnish (optional)

Instructions

  1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Cook Gnocchi: Boil gnocchi until they float, then drain.
  3. Make Sauce: Sauté garlic, then add marinara, cream, herbs, and seasoning. Simmer.
  4. Add Spinach: Stir in spinach until wilted.
  5. Combine and Bake: Mix gnocchi, ricotta, top with cheeses, then bake until bubbly.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Optionally broil, garnish with basil, and serve hot.

Notes

  • For added protein, consider adding cooked chicken or Italian sausage.
  • Substitute kale or arugula for spinach if desired.
  • Use store-bought or homemade marinara sauce.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1/4 of recipe
  • Calories: 410
  • Sugar: 5 g
  • Sodium: 580 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 11 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 39 g
  • Fiber: 3 g
  • Protein: 14 g
  • Cholesterol: 55 mg

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