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Gnocchi Mac and Cheese Recipe

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3.9 from 89 reviews

Gnocchi Mac and Cheese is a creamy, comforting twist on traditional macaroni and cheese, substituting classic pasta with pillowy gnocchi. This rich dish features a smooth cheese sauce made with Gruyère and American cheese, enhanced with a hint of Dijon mustard and hot sauce for a subtle kick. Easy to prepare on the stovetop, it’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or a family-friendly dinner.

Ingredients

Gnocchi

  • 2 x 16-oz packages (900 g) gnocchi

Cheese Sauce

  • 4 tbsp (55 g / 2 oz) butter
  • 4 tbsp (30 g / 1 oz) all-purpose flour
  • 2 1/2 cups (600 ml / 20 fl oz) milk
  • 1 1/2 cups (180 g / 6 oz) freshly shredded Gruyère cheese
  • 6 slices white American cheese, quartered
  • 1 tbsp Dijon mustard
  • 1 tsp hot sauce
  • 1/2 tsp salt, or to taste
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper, or to taste

Instructions

  1. Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
  2. Make the roux: In a large skillet or saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, whisk in the flour and cook for 1-2 minutes to form a roux, stirring constantly to avoid burning and to cook out the raw flour taste.
  3. Add the milk: Gradually whisk in the milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Continue cooking and stirring until the mixture thickens and coats the back of a spoon, about 5-7 minutes.
  4. Melt the cheese: Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded Gruyère cheese and American cheese pieces until fully melted and smooth.
  5. Season the sauce: Stir in the Dijon mustard, hot sauce, salt, and black pepper. Adjust seasoning to taste.
  6. Combine gnocchi and cheese sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the cheese sauce and gently mix to coat evenly. Warm through for 1-2 minutes.
  7. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately while hot and creamy.

Notes

  • Use freshly shredded Gruyère cheese for better melting and flavor compared to pre-shredded varieties.
  • You can substitute milk with half-and-half or cream for an even richer sauce.
  • Add cooked crispy bacon or caramelized onions for additional flavor and texture.
  • For a vegetarian version, ensure the cheese used is free from animal rennet.
  • Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated on stovetop with a splash of milk to loosen the sauce.