Smoked Gouda Gnocchi Mac and Cheese

Introduction

There’s something truly comforting about a warm bowl of mac and cheese, and when you elevate it with smoked Gouda and tender gnocchi, it becomes an indulgent dish that’s hard to resist. This Smoked Gouda Gnocchi Mac and Cheese has quickly become a family favorite in our household. The rich, smoky flavors paired with the creaminess of the cheese sauce create a delightful experience for the taste buds. My kids love it, and I appreciate how easy it is to whip up for a weeknight dinner. Whether it’s a chilly evening or a cozy gathering with friends, this dish always hits the spot.

Ingredients

• 2 packages of gnocchi (about 16-18 oz total)
• 1 cup vegetable broth, divided
• 2 1/2 tablespoons cornstarch
• 1/2 cup half & half
• 1/2 cup whole milk
• 1 1/4 cup smoked Gouda, shredded
• 1 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, shredded
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)

Instructions

Cook the Gnocchi

1. Prepare the gnocchi according to package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.

Make the Cornstarch Slurry

2. In a small bowl, combine 1/4 cup of the vegetable broth with the cornstarch. Stir until smooth with no lumps. Set aside.

Shred the Cheeses

3. Shred the smoked Gouda, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Set them aside for later use.

Prepare the Cheese Sauce

4. In a medium saucepan, heat the remaining 3/4 cup of vegetable broth, half & half, and milk over medium heat. Stir occasionally until the mixture starts to simmer.

Thicken the Sauce

5. Slowly whisk in the cornstarch slurry. Continue whisking until the sauce thickens and starts to boil. Allow it to cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly to prevent burning.

Add the Cheese and Seasonings

6. Turn off the heat and immediately add the shredded Gouda, cheddar, and Parmesan cheeses. Stir until the cheeses have melted and fully combined into a smooth sauce. Add the black pepper and salt, adjusting the seasoning as needed.

Combine with Gnocchi

7. Add the cooked gnocchi to the cheese sauce and gently fold until all the gnocchi is evenly coated in the rich, cheesy goodness.

Serve

8. Serve the smoked Gouda gnocchi mac and cheese warm, and enjoy the creamy, smoky flavors!

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Servings: 4
• Calories: 550
• Total Fat: 28g
• Saturated Fat: 15g
• Cholesterol: 70mg
• Sodium: 650mg
• Total Carbohydrates: 54g
• Dietary Fiber: 2g
• Sugars: 2g
• Protein: 20g

Preparation Time

• Total Time: 20 minutes
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 15 minutes

How to Serve

• Warm: Always serve the gnocchi mac and cheese warm for the best flavor and texture.
• Garnish: Top with fresh herbs like parsley or chives for added color and freshness.
• Pairing Suggestions:
• Serve with a side salad for a balanced meal.
• Offer garlic bread or crusty rolls for dipping.

Additional Tips

1. Cheese Variety: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like Gruyère or Fontina for different flavor profiles.
2. Texture Add-ins: For added texture, consider mixing in cooked bacon, sautéed mushrooms, or caramelized onions.
3. Creaminess Factor: Adjust the amount of half & half and milk to achieve your desired creaminess.
4. Bake Option: For a baked version, transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with breadcrumbs, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes until golden and bubbly.
5. Vegetarian Option: Use vegetable broth to keep this dish vegetarian-friendly.

Recipe Variations

• Spicy Smoked Gouda: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the cheese sauce for a spicy kick.
• Veggie-Loaded: Stir in steamed broccoli, spinach, or roasted red peppers for a nutritious boost.
• Pesto Version: Mix in some basil pesto for a fresh, herby twist on the classic recipe.

Serving Suggestions

• Side Dishes: Pair with a fresh garden salad or roasted vegetables.
• Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a light white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a fruity red like Pinot Noir.
• Leftovers: Reheat leftovers in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of milk to restore creaminess.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: To freeze, let the mac and cheese cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and heat in the oven or on the stovetop, adding a splash of milk.

FAQ Section

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?

• Yes! Just follow the package instructions for cooking frozen gnocchi.

2. What can I substitute for half & half?

• You can use a mixture of heavy cream and milk or substitute with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.

3. Can I use pre-shredded cheese?

• Yes, but freshly shredded cheese melts better and has a creamier texture.

4. How can I make this dish gluten-free?

• Use gluten-free gnocchi and check that the cornstarch is certified gluten-free.

5. Can I add protein to this dish?

• Absolutely! Cooked chicken, sausage, or shrimp can be added to make it heartier.

6. How can I reheat leftovers?

• Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of milk or in the microwave until warm.

7. Is this dish kid-friendly?

• Yes! Kids typically love the creamy texture and cheesy flavor.

8. How long can I store leftovers?

• Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

9. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

• You can prepare the cheese sauce and gnocchi in advance, then combine and heat before serving.

10. What is smoked Gouda?

• Smoked Gouda is a cheese with a rich, smoky flavor that adds depth to dishes like mac and cheese.

Conclusion

Smoked Gouda Gnocchi Mac and Cheese is a delightful twist on a classic comfort food. With its rich, creamy cheese sauce and tender gnocchi, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table. Whether enjoyed on a cozy evening or at a gathering with friends, this indulgent meal combines the best of flavor and texture. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to savor each comforting bite of this elevated mac and cheese dish!

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