Creamy Pepperoni Gnocchi Bake
Indulge in this mouth-watering Creamy Pepperoni Gnocchi Bake, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner. This dish combines tender gnocchi with a luscious cheddar cheese and four cheese sauce, elevated with savory chopped pepperoni for an irresistible flavor. It’s a one-pot meal that is easy to prepare, comforting, and sure to please both kids and adults alike. Serve it straight from the oven for a delightful family dinner that everyone will love!
6
Servings
N/A
Calories
5
Ingredients
Ingredients
Gnocchi
1 (1 lb package)
Pepperoni
1/2 (1.5 oz package, chopped into small pieces)
Cheddar Cheese Soup
1 (10.5 oz can)
Four Cheese Pasta Sauce Mix
1 (1.33 oz envelope)
Milk
2 (cups (approx))
Instructions
1
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2
In a large pot, boil water and cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
3
In a separate saucepan, follow the directions on the Knorr Four Cheese Pasta sauce mix, stirring consistently until thickened.
4
Once the sauce has thickened, stir in the cheddar cheese soup and about half a can of milk to achieve a smooth and creamy consistency.
5
Add the diced pepperoni to the sauce and mix well until evenly incorporated.
6
Combine the cooked gnocchi with the sauce, ensuring every piece is well-coated.
7
Transfer the creamy gnocchi mixture into a baking dish.
8
Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until bubbly and golden on top.
9
Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, then serve and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Creamy Pepperoni Gnocchi Bake?
It is a comforting one-pot meal that combines tender gnocchi with a creamy cheddar and four-cheese sauce, topped with savory chopped pepperoni.
How many servings does this recipe provide?
This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
What temperature should the oven be set to?
Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) before baking.
Do I need to cook the gnocchi before baking?
Yes, you should boil the gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float, then drain them before adding to the sauce.
How long does the dish need to bake?
Bake the gnocchi mixture for 20-25 minutes or until the top is bubbly and golden.
What kind of sauce mix is used in this recipe?
The recipe calls for one 1.33 oz envelope of Knorr Four Cheese Pasta sauce mix.
What type of soup is required for the creamy texture?
You will need one 10.5 oz can of cheddar cheese soup.
How much milk should I add to the sauce?
Use approximately 2 cups of milk, starting with half a can's worth to adjust the consistency.
What size gnocchi package is recommended?
A standard 1 lb package of gnocchi is used for this recipe.
How should I prepare the pepperoni?
Use a 1.5 oz package of pepperoni and chop it into small pieces for even distribution throughout the bake.
Is this recipe suitable for a quick weeknight dinner?
Yes, it is specifically categorized as a weeknight meal because it is easy and relatively fast to prepare.
Can I use different types of gnocchi?
While standard potato gnocchi is typical, you can experiment with other varieties as long as they are boiled first.
How do I know when the sauce has thickened?
Follow the sauce mix directions and stir consistently until the liquid reaches a thick, coating consistency.
What tags describe this recipe?
Tags include pasta, gnocchi, pepperoni, cheesy, bake, comfort food, weeknight meal, and easy dinner.
Can I add extra toppings?
While the recipe is delicious as is, you could add extra shredded cheese or breadcrumbs on top before baking for added texture.
Is this dish kid-friendly?
Yes, the cheesy sauce and pepperoni flavor profile makes it a popular choice for both children and adults.
Can I make this vegetarian?
You can make it vegetarian by omitting the pepperoni or replacing it with a plant-based meat alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator.
Can I prepare this in advance?
You can assemble the gnocchi and sauce in the baking dish ahead of time and bake it when you are ready to eat.
What should I serve with this gnocchi bake?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread makes an excellent accompaniment to this rich and creamy dish.
Does the recipe contain nutritional information?
The current recipe data does not specify exact calorie, fat, or carbohydrate counts.
What kind of baking dish should I use?
A standard casserole dish or a 9x13 inch baking pan works well for this amount of ingredients.
Should I let the dish rest after baking?
Yes, let it cool slightly after removing it from the oven to allow the sauce to set.
Can I use turkey pepperoni?
Yes, turkey pepperoni can be substituted if you prefer a leaner meat option.
Can I use gluten-free ingredients?
You can use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure your sauce mix and soup are certified gluten-free to adapt this recipe.
How much pepperoni is used in total?
The recipe uses 1.5 ounces of chopped pepperoni.
What is the consistency of the final sauce?
The combination of the sauce mix, soup, and milk creates a smooth and luscious creamy consistency.
Do I need to stir the sauce while cooking?
Yes, you should stir consistently while preparing the sauce mix to prevent lumps and ensure even thickening.
Can I add vegetables to the bake?
Yes, adding cooked broccoli or peas would be a great way to incorporate vegetables into this meal.
Why is the gnocchi boiled before baking?
Boiling the gnocchi first ensures they are tender and fully cooked before they are heated through in the oven with the sauce.