Gnocchi Mac and Cheese

    When I stumbled across a picture of gnocchi mac and cheese it was love at first sight.  After I read the simple ingredient list I was totally over the moon.  With my obsession with pasta how did I not think of this before?  Thick, potato gnocchi covered in cheeses and baked to a golden brown.  I couldn't wait to try it.

   This is what I picture whenever I think of a grown up mac and cheese.  This one isn't for the kids.  It has a combination of Gruyere and cheddar cheeses, a hint of Dijon mustard, and a blend of spices.  It was quick to throw together and tasted amazing.  The gnocchi seemed to absorb the cheese sauce and the top had a slight crunch where it browned. 

    This dish would be great at a holiday because it's a twist on the traditional comfort food.  It's also easy to make but looks as if it took some time so it would be a star side dish.  We'll be having this again soon!

Gnocchi Mac and Cheese  (adapted from The Cutting Edge of Ordinary)

1 pound of gnocchi
2 T. butter
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 T. flour
1/2 c. milk
1 t. Dijon mustard
1/4 c. shredded Gruyere cheese
1/4 c. shredded cheddar cheese
1/2 t. salt
1 t. pepper
1/4 c. Parmesan cheese
Parsley for garnish, chopped

1.  Preheat the oven to 375 degrees.  Cook the gnocchi according to the package directions.  Drain and put in an 8 x 8 baking pan that has been sprayed with cooking spray.

2.  In a medium saucepan over medium high heat melt the butter.  Stir in the garlic and cook for one minute.  Whisk in the flour until it thickens and bubbles, about 2 minutes.  Whisk in the milk and Dijon and continuing cooking and whisking for 5 minutes.

3.  Slowly add in the cheeses a handful at a time, stirring before adding the next handful.  Once all the cheese is melted stir in the salt and pepper.

4.  Pour the sauce over the gnocchi in the baking dish.  Sprinkle with the Parmesan cheese.  Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top in golden brown.  Remove from oven and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

This post linked to:

What's Cooking Wednesdays, Turn the Table Thursdays, Full Plate Thursdays

It's A Keeper Thursdays, Frugal Food Thursdays,