Baked Gnocchi with Sage and Cheese Sauce

Baked Gnocchi with Sage and Cheese Sauce is a comforting dish that blends rustic charm with rich flavor—a lovely departure from heavy mac and cheese. Pillowy gnocchi is nestled in the cheesiest sauce made with Fontina cheese and Parmesan cheese, enhanced by the earthy addition of fresh sage leaves. The dish is finished with a golden brown bubbly top from baking. This will be your new favorite.

Let this gnocchi recipe the first thing you choose for a cozy dinner or an elegant centerpiece for entertaining. Turn it into a quick and easy meal with a package of pre-made gnocchi, or try making homemade gnocchi. It’s easier than you think—I have a great guide on How to Make Gnocchi!

Gnocchi (whether homemade or store-bought gnocchi) is one of the best fast dinner ideas. Whether you’re craving hearty comfort food like this dish, Cacio e Pepe Gnocchi, or something lighter like Crispy Gnocchi with Peas and Asparagus, you can easily customize gnocchi with simple ingredients.

What does ‘gnocchi’ mean?

The word ‘gnocchi,’ derived from the Italian word nocchio, means a knot in wood, or nocca, meaning knuckle, reflecting their small, rounded shape. To pronounce it like an Italian, say ‘nee-o-kki.

No Pre-Boiling Gnocchi

Potato gnocchi cooks in just minutes, so you don’t need to boil it separately. The uncooked gnocchi cooks perfectly in the two-cheese sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors as it simmers. You can also use ricotta gnocchi

Cheese and Sage Sauce

This recipe uses whole milk instead of heavy cream to reduce unnecessary fat. Sure, it’s not a low-calorie, low-fat meal—but that’s not why you’re here. You’re here for the cheesiest, cozy comfort food. Am I right?

Secret Ingredient – Extra Protein

I add chicken or vegetable stock to give the sauce extra flavor. Another secret ingredient I like to add to creamy sauces is freshly grated nutmeg. It enhances the flavor with a subtle warmth, depth, and a touch of sweetness without overpowering the dish.

Baked Gnocchi with Sage and Cheese Sauce Ingredients

• Unsalted butter
• All-purpose/plain flour
• Chicken stock or vegetable stock
• Whole milk
• Salt to taste
•  Freshly grated nutmeg
•  Fresh sage leaves
•  Fontina cheese
•  Parmesan cheese
•  Gnocchi (store bought packaged or frozen)

Baked Gnocchi with Sage and Cheese Sauce Directions

1. Melt the butter over medium heat, ensuring it doesn’t brown (you can substitute olive oil). Whisk in the flour to make a roux, which thickens the sauce. Gradually whisk in the warmed stock and milk to create a simple béchamel sauce. Stir in the salt, nutmeg, and sage.
2. Once the sauce is smooth, add the cheeses by handfuls, melting each addition before adding more, until all the cheese is melted and the sauce is creamy. Taste and adjust the salt if needed. Add the gnocchi to the sauce, then transfer it to an ovenproof dish. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the top is browned and bubbly. Serve with additional grated Parmesan cheese on top.

Optional Additions

Top the dish with crispy sage, toasted breadcrumbs, or crispy bacon bits. Stir in some mixed vegetables for a serving of veggies.

If you’ve made this Baked Gnocchi with Sage and Cheese Sauce, please leave a star rating. If you have a question or comment, you can leave it in the box below – I love to hear from my readers!