Dinner

Cacio e Pepe Baked Gnocchi Recipe

Name: Cacio e Pepe Baked Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 kg (2 lb) gnocchi; 3 tbsp butter; 4 garlic cloves, crushed; 1 tbsp freshly ground pepper; 2 tsp Italian herbs / Italian seasoning; 2 tbsp flour; 2 cups milk; 1 cup cream; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; salt, to taste; ½ cup grated mozzarella cheese

Byrami Hayes February 9, 2026February 9, 2026

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Introduction

Cacio e Pepe baked gnocchi is a comforting twist on the classic Italian cacio e pepe pasta. Soft gnocchi are smothered in a creamy, cheesy sauce with a peppery kick and baked until golden and bubbly. It’s an easy dish perfect for cozy dinners.

A round metal pan filled with creamy white sauce with small chunks, mixed with herbs and spices visible as tiny black dots. The dish is topped with melted cheese that is golden brown in some spots and speckled with chopped green herbs. A wooden spoon lifts a portion of the thick, creamy sauce revealing the texture and layers below. The background is a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 kg (2 lb) gnocchi
3 tbsp butter
1 tbsp freshly ground pepper
4 garlic cloves, crushed
2 tsp Italian herbs or Italian seasoning
2 tbsp flour
2 cups milk
1 cup cream
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
½ cup grated mozzarella cheese
Salt to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F).
Step 2: Melt the butter in a large, oven-proof pan over medium heat. Add the crushed garlic and freshly ground pepper.
Step 3: Cook for 30 seconds, then stir in the flour. Cook the flour for another 30 seconds, mixing constantly.
Step 4: Gradually pour in the milk and cream, stirring or whisking until the sauce is smooth. Reduce the heat and let it simmer, stirring regularly, until thick and creamy.
Step 5: Stir in the Italian herbs, Parmesan cheese, and salt to taste. Remove the sauce from the heat.
Step 6: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2–3 minutes.
Step 7: Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked gnocchi to the pan with the sauce. Stir gently to coat the gnocchi evenly.
Step 8: Sprinkle the grated mozzarella cheese over the top and place the pan in the preheated oven. Bake for 15 minutes or until the cheese is golden and bubbling.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and allow to cool for a few minutes before serving.

Tips & Variations

Use freshly grated Parmesan and mozzarella for the best flavor and melting quality.
Add a pinch of nutmeg to the sauce for a subtle warmth.
Swap Italian herbs for fresh rosemary or thyme for a different aroma.
For an extra cheesy topping, sprinkle some Pecorino Romano before baking.

Storage

Store leftover baked gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the gnocchi tender.

How to Serve

A close-up image of a slice being lifted from a white pizza covered in a thick, creamy white sauce with specks of black pepper. The pizza has visible chunks of tender chicken on top, coated in the sauce. Stretchy, gooey melted cheese strands pull up from the pizza base, showing a rich texture. The pizza crust is golden brown and fluffy, with bits of melted cheese and green herbs sprinkled around. The background is a soft white marbled texture, keeping focus on the cheesy, creamy pizza slice. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time. Just cook them as instructed until they float before mixing with the sauce.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

To make a dairy-free version, substitute the butter with a plant-based alternative, use dairy-free milk and cream alternatives, and replace cheeses with vegan cheese options. Keep in mind the flavor and texture may differ slightly.