Creamy Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake Recipe

Intro and Brief Recap

Have you ever craved a dish that combines creamy, cheesy goodness with the heartiness of gnocchi? Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake is a delightful culinary creation that brings together the vibrant flavors of spinach and artichokes, enveloped in a rich, cheesy sauce. This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also fills your kitchen with an irresistible aroma that draws everyone in.

This recipe holds a special place in my heart, as it reminds me of cozy family gatherings where comfort food takes center stage. The first time I prepared it, I was amazed by how quickly it became a favorite among friends and family. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or an impressive meal for guests, Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake is perfect for any occasion. Prepare to indulge in layers of flavor and texture that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Key Ingredients For Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Gnocchi: Choose store-bought or homemade gnocchi for this recipe; both options work well, though homemade adds a personal touch.
• Fresh Spinach: Opt for fresh spinach rather than frozen for better texture; it also wilts beautifully when cooked.
• Canned Artichoke Hearts: Look for artichoke hearts packed in water or oil; drain them well before use to avoid excess moisture.
• Cream Cheese: Use full-fat cream cheese for a rich consistency that melds beautifully with the other ingredients.
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella provides great stretch and gooeyness; consider using a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan for added depth.

For the Sauce:

• Garlic: Minced garlic enhances the flavor profile; use fresh garlic cloves for the best taste.
• Heavy Cream: Incorporating heavy cream creates a luxurious sauce that coats the gnocchi perfectly.
• Italian Seasoning: This blend of herbs brings warmth and complexity to the bake; feel free to adjust to your liking.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Instructions For Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:

First Step: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). While it heats up, prepare your baking dish by lightly greasing it with nonstick cooking spray.

Second Step: Cook the Spinach

In a large skillet over medium heat, add fresh spinach. Cook until wilted, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Once wilted, remove from heat and set aside.

Third Step: Prepare the Sauce

In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant—about one minute. Then mix in cream cheese until melted before adding heavy cream. Stir until combined and smooth.

Fourth Step: Combine Ingredients

Add cooked spinach, drained artichoke hearts, Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and half of the shredded mozzarella cheese to the sauce. Gently fold everything together until thoroughly mixed.

Fifth Step: Add Gnocchi

Carefully stir in cooked gnocchi into the mixture. Ensure all pieces are coated evenly with sauce.

Sixth Step: Bake

Transfer everything into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle remaining mozzarella cheese on top. Bake in preheated oven for about 25-30 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.

Transfer to plates and enjoy each creamy bite topped off with crispy cheese!

Expert Tips

Here are some helpful tips to ensure the best results for your dish:

• Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh spinach and high-quality cheeses will elevate your dish significantly.
• Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Make sure to cook gnocchi just until they float; overcooking can result in mushy pasta.
• Add Extra Veggies: Feel free to mix in additional vegetables like mushrooms or peppers for more flavor and nutrition.

Cooking Instructions

To prepare your Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake, start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil and add the gnocchi. Cook until they float, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

In a separate pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Then, stir in chopped spinach and artichokes. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the spinach wilts down.

In a mixing bowl, combine cooked gnocchi with the sautéed vegetables. Stir in cream cheese, sour cream, and shredded mozzarella cheese until everything is well combined. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes for added flavor.

Transfer the mixture into a greased baking dish. Top with more mozzarella cheese and sprinkle with parmesan for a golden finish. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden brown.

Serving Suggestions

The Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake offers delightful serving options that enhance the dish’s appeal:

• Fresh Salad: Pair it with a light arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast.
• Garlic Bread: Serve alongside warm garlic bread for an irresistible combination.
• Wine Pairing: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc complements this dish beautifully.

Storage Tips

If you have leftovers from your Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake, store them properly to maintain freshness. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. You can refrigerate it for up to three days or freeze it for longer storage.

To reheat, simply place it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. If frozen, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Nutritional Information

A serving of Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake contains essential nutrients beneficial for your health. This dish is rich in fiber due to spinach and artichokes, while the cheeses provide calcium and protein.

For those watching their calorie intake, consider portion sizes when enjoying this creamy bake. By using low-fat alternatives for cream cheese or sour cream, you can make this dish lighter without sacrificing flavor.

FAQs

What ingredients are needed for Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake?

For the perfect Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake, gather essential ingredients such as gnocchi, fresh spinach, canned artichokes, cream cheese, sour cream, mozzarella cheese, garlic, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes for heat. These components create a creamy texture that enhances each bite of gnocchi while providing rich flavors from the vegetables.

Can I use frozen spinach in my gnocchi bake?

Yes! Frozen spinach works well in your Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake. Just remember to thaw it first and squeeze out excess moisture before adding it to your mixture. Using frozen spinach can save time while still providing similar nutritional benefits as fresh spinach.

How do I prevent my gnocchi bake from becoming too dry?

To keep your Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake moist and creamy, ensure you include enough sauce ingredients like cream cheese or sour cream during preparation. Additionally, avoid overbaking by checking for doneness as soon as it starts bubbling; you want that gooey texture without drying out.

Can I make this Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake ahead of time?

Absolutely! Preparing your Spinach and Artichoke Gnocchi Bake ahead of time is simple. Assemble all ingredients in a baking dish but skip baking until ready to serve. Cover tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to two days before baking directly from the fridge when you’re ready to enjoy this delectable dish.