Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach – Easy Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting yet elegant dish that’ll leave everyone at the dinner table asking for seconds, look no further. Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach is a game-changer. It combines the rich, pillowy texture of gnocchi, the creamy goodness of three types of cheese, and the earthiness of fresh spinach, all baked to golden perfection in a zesty marinara sauce. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, preparing a special date night dinner, or looking for a hearty meal to impress your friends, this recipe delivers every time.

In this article, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about making Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach, from ingredient tips and tricks to variations and serving suggestions. Plus, we’ll answer all your burning questions about this crowd-pleasing dish. So, let’s dive right in!

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What Is Gnocchi? A Quick Introduction

Before we dive into the recipe itself, let’s take a moment to talk about gnocchi. For those of you unfamiliar with this humble but incredibly satisfying dish, gnocchi are small Italian dumplings, usually made from potato, flour, and eggs. These little pillows of soft dough absorb sauce like a sponge, making them the perfect base for a dish like Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach.

While they can be a bit tricky to make from scratch (though not impossible!), store-bought gnocchi is an easy shortcut for a dish like this. It’s quick, convenient, and still delivers that soft, melt-in-your-mouth texture that gnocchi lovers crave. Once you try it, you’ll understand why gnocchi has been a beloved Italian comfort food for centuries.

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The Beauty of Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach

What makes this recipe stand out among the many gnocchi dishes out there? Well, for starters, it’s packed with flavor. The combination of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheeses creates a rich, melty layer of goodness that perfectly complements the gnocchi. Add in the fresh spinach, which wilts down and adds a pop of color and nutrition, and you’ve got a dish that’s both delicious and satisfying.

Why This Recipe Works:

• Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that are both filling and satisfying.
• Three cheeses: Creamy ricotta, stretchy mozzarella, and sharp Parmesan for a perfect cheesy melt.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach balances out the richness of the cheese with its earthy flavor.
• Marinara sauce: A tangy tomato sauce that ties everything together with just the right amount of acidity.

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Ingredients You’ll Need for Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach

This Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach recipe is straightforward and uses common ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s everything you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Ingredients:

• 1 lb potato gnocchi – Fresh or frozen, either works for this recipe. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions.
• 2 cups fresh spinach – Fresh spinach is key for that vibrant, healthy green flavor. Feel free to use frozen spinach if you prefer; just make sure to thaw and drain it thoroughly.
• 1 cup ricotta cheese – Creamy and mild, ricotta cheese adds richness to the dish.
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese – For that perfect gooey, melty texture.
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Parmesan brings a salty, nutty flavor that balances the other cheeses.
• 1 jar (24 oz) marinara sauce – Choose your favorite marinara sauce. If you have the time, making a homemade sauce can elevate this dish even further.
• 1 tablespoon olive oil – For cooking the spinach and adding a touch of richness to the dish.
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder – For a subtle, aromatic flavor that blends beautifully with the other ingredients.
• Salt and pepper to taste – To season the dish just right.

Optional Garnishes:

• Fresh basil or parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
• Extra Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top before serving.

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Step-by-Step Directions: How to Make Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach

Now that we’ve covered the ingredients, it’s time to walk you through the easy steps for making this delicious dish. You’ll be amazed at how quickly it comes together, and the result is a baked casserole of cheesy gnocchi perfection that your family will beg you to make again and again.

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

First things first, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is perfect for getting that golden, bubbly top on your Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach.

Next, lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish with non-stick cooking spray or butter. This ensures the gnocchi doesn’t stick to the pan and makes for easy cleanup afterward.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Cook your gnocchi according to the package directions. Typically, gnocchi only takes a few minutes to cook. You’ll know it’s done when it rises to the top of the pot. Once cooked, drain it and set it aside.

Pro tip: Be sure not to overcook the gnocchi, or it can become mushy. They should be soft and tender, with a slight bite.

Step 3: Sauté the Spinach

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the fresh spinach to the skillet and sauté until it wilts down. This should take about 2–3 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to ensure it cooks evenly.

Once wilted, remove the skillet from the heat and set the spinach aside. This will keep it from overcooking when it’s mixed with the gnocchi.

Step 4: Assemble the Dish

In your prepared baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce on the bottom. This forms the base of your dish and ensures the gnocchi doesn’t stick.

Next, toss the cooked gnocchi with the sautéed spinach and the remaining marinara sauce in a large bowl. Season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper to taste. Be sure to coat the gnocchi and spinach mixture evenly with the sauce and seasonings.

Step 5: Add the Cheeses

Now, it’s time for the magic to happen! Spoon ricotta cheese in small dollops over the gnocchi mixture. This will melt into the dish and create rich pockets of creamy goodness.

Next, sprinkle the mozzarella cheese evenly over the top of the gnocchi mixture. Then, finish with the Parmesan cheese, which will add a sharp, nutty flavor and help create that golden, crispy top.

Step 6: Bake the Dish

Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the top is bubbly and golden. The cheeses should be melted, and the marinara sauce should be bubbling around the edges.

Once baked, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to set and makes it easier to scoop.

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Variations and Substitutions

While this Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach recipe is amazing as is, there are plenty of ways to mix things up based on your tastes or dietary preferences. Here are a few ideas:

• Swap the spinach: If you’re not a fan of spinach, try using kale, arugula, or zucchini. You can even toss in some roasted red peppers or mushrooms for extra flavor.
• Add protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken, sausage, or even meatballs.
• Make it dairy-free: Substitute the ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan with dairy-free alternatives. Many grocery stores now offer excellent dairy-free cheese options that will melt just like the real thing.
• Extra flavor: Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or a pinch of dried oregano or basil for extra Italian flair.

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How to Serve Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach

This Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach is a complete meal on its own, but you can always serve it alongside a few tasty sides to round out the dinner experience:

• A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette.
• A loaf of garlic bread for sopping up all that delicious marinara sauce.
• Roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant to complement the flavors.

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Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers (which we highly doubt), here’s how to store and reheat your Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach:

• Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3–4 days.
• Freeze: This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months. Let it cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and foil. To reheat, bake at 350°F for 25–30 minutes, or until heated through.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it for up to a day before baking. Just be sure to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you’re baking it from the fridge.

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works just fine! Be sure to follow the package directions for cooking frozen gnocchi.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of ricotta, try using cream cheese or even mascarpone for a creamier texture.

**What can I serve with Three Cheese Baked G

2/2

4o mini

ChatGPT said:

nocchi with Spinach?**
A fresh Caesar salad, roasted veggies, or even just crusty Italian bread are all great options.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes! As long as your marinara sauce and cheese options are vegetarian (most are), this dish is completely meat-free.

Can I add meat to this recipe?

Certainly! Cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or grilled chicken can be added to make it more filling.

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Conclusion: The Perfect Gnocchi Bake for Cheese Lovers

There’s a reason why Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach is becoming a favorite in kitchens everywhere. It’s cheesy, satisfying, easy to make, and endlessly customizable. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying a solo comfort food night, this dish hits all the right notes. With a little prep and a short time in the oven, you’ll have a dinner that tastes like it came from an upscale Italian bistro—without ever leaving your kitchen.

So go ahead—give this recipe a try, and don’t be surprised when it becomes a regular in your dinner rotation. And remember, when it comes to comfort food, it doesn’t get much better than Three Cheese Baked Gnocchi with Spinach.

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