Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake Recipe

If your heart skips a beat at the thought of pillowy gnocchi smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce with juicy chicken, then Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake is the dish you’ve been longing for! This cozy casserole fuses classic Italian flavors with the irresistible comfort of a baked pasta, all coming together in a one-dish wonder that’s as wonderful for weeknight dinners as it is for inviting friends to gather around your table. Every bite is a creamy, golden-topped celebration of texture and rich taste, guaranteed to win over family members and guests alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Simplicity meets indulgence in this ingredient list, where every item plays a starring role. These everyday essentials come together to build layers of savory flavor, from luscious sauce to bubbly cheese – the key to making Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake utterly irresistible.

  • Potato Gnocchi (1 pound): The ultimate comfort carb, these little potato dumplings give the bake its soft, toothsome texture and soak up that creamy sauce beautifully.
  • Cooked Shredded or Diced Chicken Breast (2 cups): Use home-cooked or rotisserie to save time; tender chunks infuse every scoop with satisfying protein and flavor.
  • Unsalted Butter (2 tablespoons): Melts into the skillet to start our roux, giving a rich foundation to the Alfredo sauce.
  • Garlic Cloves, Minced (3 cloves): Adds that essential kick, transforming the sauce from basic to brilliant with aromatic depth.
  • All-Purpose Flour (2 tablespoons): Thickens the sauce so it clings to every bite of gnocchi and chicken.
  • Whole Milk (1 3/4 cups): Creates a creamy base and smooth mouthfeel without making things too heavy.
  • Heavy Cream (1/2 cup): Brings silky richness and indulgence that’s essential for true Alfredo flavor.
  • Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/2 cup): Delivers salty, savory notes and classic cheesy tang in every forkful.
  • Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup): Bakes to gooey, bubbly perfection for that signature golden lid.
  • Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings out flavors throughout the bake; taste as you go to find your ideal balance.
  • Black Pepper (1/4 teaspoon): Offers a gentle warmth and highlights the other spices.
  • Garlic Powder (1/4 teaspoon): Reinforces garlicky richness and rounds out the seasoning.
  • Italian Seasoning (1/4 teaspoon): Infuses subtle herbal notes that sing alongside the creamy sauce.
  • Chopped Parsley (for garnish): Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and a hint of brightness on top.

How to Make Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven and Boil the Gnocchi

Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C) – no shortcuts here, since a consistent temperature ensures that glorious golden topping. While your oven preheats, set a large pot of salted water to boil. Toss in the gnocchi and cook just until they float to the surface, signaling they’re perfectly tender. Drain and set them aside; don’t overcook, as they’ll finish in the bake and you want them pillowy, not mushy.

Step 2: Create a Garlicky Roux

In a large skillet over medium heat, melt the butter until it’s foaming, then stir in the minced garlic. Let it sauté for about a minute or two, just until fragrant – your kitchen should already smell dreamy! Sprinkle in the flour, stirring constantly to form a smooth, golden roux that’ll thicken your Alfredo sauce like magic.

Step 3: Build the Creamy Alfredo Sauce

Now, slowly pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, whisking the whole time to keep things lump-free. As the mixture simmers, you’ll notice it thickening up after about 3 to 5 minutes. Stir in the grated Parmesan, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Keep stirring until the cheese melts and the sauce becomes silky and luscious – the hallmark of a great Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake.

Step 4: Combine Chicken and Gnocchi

Toss both your cooked chicken and the drained gnocchi into the skillet with that velvety sauce. Fold gently to ensure every piece is coated in creamy goodness without breaking up those delicate gnocchi. This step is where all the flavors start to meld, getting ready for their big finish in the oven.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish to prevent any sticky messes, then pour in your gnocchi and chicken mixture. Smooth it out and shower the top evenly with shredded mozzarella. Pop the dish into the oven for 20 to 25 minutes, or until the cheese bubbles and turns gloriously golden. Your kitchen will be filled with all the creamy, cheesy aromas that make this Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake pure comfort in a casserole dish.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

As soon as your bake emerges from the oven, sprinkle with chopped parsley for a burst of color and a lingering hint of freshness. Scoop generous portions and enjoy – creamy, cheesy, and utterly satisfying!

How to Serve Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake

Garnishes

A final flourish of fresh chopped parsley is all you really need to brighten up the creamy, golden crust of your Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake. If you’re feeling fancy, a dusting of extra grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of cracked black pepper makes each plate even more inviting. For a rustic touch, try some thinly sliced fresh basil or a handful of baby arugula tossed on at the table.

Side Dishes

This bake loves simple sides: a crisp green salad dressed with lemony vinaigrette will balance all that creaminess beautifully. Want something warm? Garlic bread or a batch of roasted broccoli makes perfect partners. For a lighter contrast, go with blanched green beans or a zippy tomato salad – they’ll cut through the richness and keep your meal feeling vibrant.

Creative Ways to Present

For a family-style feast, serve Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake right from the baking dish, letting everyone dig in for seconds. For dinner parties, consider spooning it into mini ramekins for personal servings – they’re adorable and fancy without extra effort! You can even try scooping leftovers into warm sub rolls for a decadent sandwich twist the next day.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you manage to have any leftovers, transfer them to an airtight container and keep them refrigerated for up to 3 days. The creamy sauce keeps the gnocchi moist, and the flavors deepen overnight, making tomorrow’s lunch a serious treat.

Freezing

Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake can be frozen, though the sauce may change texture slightly after thawing. Cool the bake completely, wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Defrost overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

For the tastiest results, reheat leftovers in a covered baking dish at 350°F until hot and bubbly, adding a splash of milk or cream to loosen up the sauce if needed. Microwave reheating works too – just cover and use short bursts, stirring in between for even heating.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought Alfredo sauce instead of making it from scratch?

Absolutely! If you’re short on time or have a favorite jarred sauce, feel free to use about 2 cups in place of the homemade version. Homemade brings a richer, fresher flavor, but shortcuts are always welcome for those busy nights.

What kind of chicken is best for this recipe?

Cooked, shredded chicken breast is traditional, but rotisserie chicken is a huge time-saver and packs extra flavor. You can also use leftover grilled, roasted, or even poached chicken – whatever you have on hand will work beautifully in Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake.

Can I add vegetables to this bake?

Definitely! Spinach, steamed broccoli, or roasted mushrooms make amazing additions. Just stir them in with the chicken and gnocchi before baking for an easy way to add color, nutrition, and extra layers of flavor to your Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake.

Will gluten-free gnocchi work in this recipe?

Yes, gluten-free gnocchi is a great substitute and holds up well in the sauce. Just make sure any flour you use for the roux is also gluten-free, like a cup-for-cup alternative, to keep the entire dish safe for those with sensitivities.

Can I prepare Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake ahead of time?

You can assemble the bake up to a day ahead, cover, and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to cook, let it sit at room temperature while your oven preheats, then bake as directed, adding a few extra minutes if it’s still cold from the fridge.

Final Thoughts

If you’re searching for a comforting, crowd-pleasing casserole, Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake delivers every time. With its creamy sauce, pillowy gnocchi, and irresistible cheesy crust, it’s a recipe you’ll want to revisit again and again. Trust me – one bite and you’ll see why it’s become a beloved staple in so many kitchens. Give it a try soon and get ready for rave reviews at your table!

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Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake Recipe

Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake Recipe


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4.5 from 9 reviews

  • Author: admin
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x
  • Diet: Non-Vegetarian

Description

Indulge in this comforting Chicken Alfredo Gnocchi Bake, a creamy and cheesy twist on classic pasta dishes. Tender potato gnocchi and savory chicken are enveloped in a luscious Alfredo sauce, topped with gooey melted cheese, and baked to golden perfection.


Ingredients

Scale

Potato Gnocchi:

  • 1 pound potato gnocchi

Chicken:

  • 2 cups cooked shredded or diced chicken breast

Alfredo Sauce:

  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 1 3/4 cups whole milk
  • 1/2 cup heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Cheese:

  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Garnish:

  • Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Preheat and Prepare: Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. In a skillet, melt butter, sauté garlic, whisk in flour, then milk and cream until thickened.
  2. Make Sauce: Add Parmesan, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Combine chicken and gnocchi in the sauce.
  3. Bake: Transfer mixture to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake for 20–25 minutes.
  4. Finish and Serve: Garnish with parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Use rotisserie chicken for a time-saving shortcut.
  • Substitute half-and-half for cream if desired.
  • Add spinach or steamed broccoli for extra veggies.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 portion
  • Calories: 460
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 580mg
  • Fat: 24g
  • Saturated Fat: 13g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 36g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 28g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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