Gnocchi With Fontina Sauce
Creamy gnocchi coated in a rich Fontina and Parmesan sauce, perfect for comforting dinners and cheese lovers seeking a luxurious, smooth, and flavorful dish.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Place Fontina cheese, cream, butter, and Parmesan in a saucepan over another saucepan of simmering water.
- Heat, stirring occasionally, until cheeses melt and sauce is smooth and hot.
- Meanwhile, boil gnocchi until cooked.
- Drain the gnocchi and coat with a little vegetable or salad oil.
- Serve the gnocchi with the prepared cheese sauce poured over.
Tips & Substitutions
For a creamier sauce, consider adding a splash of white wine to the cheese mixture. If Fontina is unavailable, Gruyère or even a mild cheddar can work as substitutes. Stir in some sautéed garlic or shallots for extra flavor, and don’t forget to season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. This dish can be enhanced by serving with a side of Italian Biskets for a delightful crunch.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the gnocchi with Fontina sauce immediately for the best flavor and texture. A sprinkle of fresh herbs like parsley or basil can add a nice touch. This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or steamed vegetables. For a complete meal, consider serving with Fettuccine With Spinach-Ricotta Sauce for variety.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm the gnocchi and sauce in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through. Avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from becoming grainy. Adding a splash of cream can help restore the sauce's consistency.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Gnocchi With Fontina Sauce contains roughly 1212 calories, with 14g protein, 7g carbohydrates, and 125g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (28% of the Daily Value) and calcium (23% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin A.
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make the cheese sauce ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the cheese sauce in advance. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When ready to use, reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of cream if needed to maintain the desired consistency.
Can I freeze the gnocchi with sauce?
It is not recommended to freeze the gnocchi with the cheese sauce, as the sauce may separate when thawed. However, you can freeze cooked gnocchi on its own. Once frozen, transfer to a bag or container and use within 2 months. When ready, cook from frozen and combine with freshly made sauce.
What other cheeses can I use in this recipe?
Aside from Fontina, you can experiment with other semi-soft cheeses like Havarti or a blend of mozzarella and provolone for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the cheese melts well to maintain a creamy sauce. Mixing in some blue cheese can also add a unique twist.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).