Description
This Creamy Gnocchi Bake is a comforting and flavorful dish featuring tender gnocchi and juicy steak pieces baked in a rich, cheesy sauce infused with garlic, shallots, and thyme. Topped with a crunchy breadcrumb crust and fresh parsley, it makes a perfect hearty meal ready in just 40 minutes.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 (16 ounce) package store-bought gnocchi
- 1 (8 ounce) steak
- 4 tablespoons butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 medium shallot, finely diced
- 3 tablespoons flour
- 3 cups milk
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 cup peas, divided
- 3/4 cup shredded cheese (mozzarella, swiss, gruyere, or pepperjack all work well)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Topping
- 1/3 cup breadcrumbs (optional)
- Fresh parsley, to garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the gnocchi dish later.
- Cook Gnocchi: Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the store-bought gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, indicating they are done. Remove them with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Cook Steak: Heat a deep skillet over medium heat and lightly oil it. Cook the steak for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked to your preferred doneness. Remove the steak, let it rest briefly, then dice it into bite-sized pieces.
- Make Cheese Sauce: In the same skillet, melt the butter and sauté the minced garlic and diced shallot until fragrant, about 1 minute. Whisk in the flour to create a roux paste. Gradually pour in the milk, stirring constantly until the mixture thickens. Add Dijon mustard and dried thyme, then bring to a gentle simmer. Season the sauce with salt and pepper. Stir in the shredded cheeses until melted and smooth. Finally, fold in the cooked gnocchi, diced steak, and 3/4 cup of peas.
- Assemble and Bake: Transfer the creamy gnocchi and steak mixture into a shallow baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining 1/4 cup of peas and breadcrumbs (if using) evenly on top. Bake in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes until bubbly and golden on top.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the dish from the oven and sprinkle with freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy this delicious creamy gnocchi bake.
Notes
- You can substitute the steak with chicken or turkey for a different protein choice.
- Any semi-soft shredded cheese works well, so feel free to mix cheeses per your preference.
- Breadcrumb topping is optional but adds a lovely crunchy texture to the dish.
- For extra veggies, add mushrooms or spinach when sautéing garlic and shallots.
- Ensure not to overcook gnocchi in the boiling water; once they float, they are ready.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
