During the chilly months, there’s nothing quite like warming up with a cozy and comforting dish straight from the oven. This Gnocchi Auflauf recipe is a delightful twist on the traditional German casserole, featuring pillowy soft potato gnocchi enveloped in a creamy, flavorful sauce that’s sure to please both friends and family. Serve it up as a main dish or as a side to complement a hearty winter meal. Let’s dive into the recipe for this scrumptious Gnocchi Auflauf!
**Ingredients:**
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
– 1 cup fresh spinach, chopped
– 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
**Instructions:**
1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with butter or cooking spray.
2. Cook the potato gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float to the top, then drain and set aside.
3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onions and garlic, sautéing until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the sliced mushrooms to the skillet and cook until they have softened, approximately 5-6 minutes.
5. Toss in the chopped spinach and shredded chicken, stirring until the spinach has wilted and the chicken is heated through.
6. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the mixture, combining well.
7. Pour in the heavy cream, stirring continuously to create a creamy sauce. Let the mixture simmer for a few minutes until slightly thickened.
8. Add the cooked potato gnocchi into the skillet, gently folding them into the sauce until they are evenly coated.
9. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and fully incorporated.
10. Transfer everything into the greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly.
11. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the gnocchi mixture, creating a delicious cheesy layer.
12. Bake the Gnocchi Auflauf in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
13. Once done, remove the dish from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving.
14. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and an added burst of flavor.
Enjoy this Gnocchi Auflauf hot out of the oven, savoring each bite of the creamy, cheesy goodness. Whether you’re hosting a cozy dinner party or simply craving a homemade comfort dish, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your culinary repertoire. Share the joy by passing on this recipe to your loved ones and spreading warmth and deliciousness throughout the season.
