Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo Bake

Cheesy and creamy yet surprisingly quick to make this Chicken Gnocchi Alfredo Bake is my secret weapon for busy nights when I want something everyone will celebrate around the table Soft potato gnocchi tossed with juicy chicken smoky bacon tender broccoli and a blanket of bubbling cheese delivers pure comfort with almost no effort

The first time I made this bake it disappeared so fast I barely got a second helping Now it is in heavy rotation whenever I need to please both kids and grownups and get dinner done fast

Ingredients

• Shelf stable gnocchi: delivers soft pillowy bites without extra prep Look for brands with a short ingredient list for best texture
• Frozen broccoli: adds color and nutrients I like to buy florets for less chopping and quick mixing
• Shredded or chopped cooked chicken: gives protein and heartiness Rotisserie chicken saves even more time
• Cooked bacon crumbled in: brings smoky flavor and a salty kick Freshly cooked or high quality pre cooked bacon both work well
• Minced garlic: builds deep savory flavor Use fresh garlic and mince right before adding if you can
• Jar of Alfredo sauce: keeps things creamy and rich Choose a brand with real cream and cheese in the ingredients for best results
• Shredded mozzarella and Monterey jack: provide stretchy cheesy topping Always shred from the block for the best melt
• Freshly grated parmesan cheese green onions and extra bacon: make the perfect garnish Bright flavors balance out the creamy sauce

Step by Step Instructions

Prepare the Dish:

Spray your favorite casserole dish with non stick spray Make sure the sides are covered so nothing sticks

Cook the Gnocchi:

Follow the package directions for boiling gnocchi Usually this takes just a few minutes in simmering water Drain well so your bake is not watery

Mix All Ingredients:

Gently combine the cooked gnocchi chopped broccoli chicken bacon minced garlic and the Alfredo sauce in a large mixing bowl Toss until everything is coated evenly

Assemble and Top:

Spoon the mixture into the prepared baking dish Spread it into an even layer Then sprinkle mozzarella and Monterey jack cheese all across the top

Bake:

Place the dish in a four hundred degree oven for about twenty minutes Bake until the cheese is melted and everything is bubbling

Broil the Cheese:

Turn your broiler on high for one or two minutes Watch it closely and remove it the moment the cheese turns golden brown The top should look beautifully crisp but not burnt

Garnish and Serve:

Once out of the oven sprinkle on parmesan cheese sliced green onions and extra bacon if you have it Serve while it is hot and the cheese is still gooey

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Broccoli is my favorite part of this recipe because it soaks up the sauce and stays vibrant in the oven I remember my family asking for seconds and barely saving any for tomorrow’s lunch That always feels like a cooking victory

Storage Tips

Leftovers should cool to room temperature before you store them Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days Reheat individual portions gently in the microwave or cover the whole dish with foil and warm it in the oven at three hundred twenty five degrees

Ingredient Substitutions

If you do not have cooked chicken swap in any leftover roasted meats Rotisserie turkey or cooked sausage work well For the cheese use cheddar or fontina for a different flavor Spinach or peas can replace broccoli for a twist

Serving Suggestions

To turn this hearty bake into a family feast add a crisp green salad on the side Garlic bread is a classic partner or try simple steamed asparagus for a lighter pairing

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Cultural Context

Gnocchi originated in Italy and is all about comfort food tradition Inspired by creamy Alfredo sauce from Rome this bake shows how Italian flavors blend perfectly with American one dish casseroles for a feel good meal

Recipe FAQs

→ What type of gnocchi works best?

Shelf-stable potato gnocchi is recommended for convenience and texture, but refrigerated or homemade can also be used.

→ Can I use leftover chicken?

Yes, cooked rotisserie or leftover grilled chicken both work well and add convenience to the dish.

→ How do I make the bake extra creamy?

Use a quality Alfredo sauce and add extra cheese or a splash of cream if a richer texture is desired.

→ Is it possible to make this ahead?

Assembling ahead is simple—just cover and refrigerate. Bake just before serving for best texture.

→ What are good garnish options?

Freshly grated parmesan, green onions, and extra bacon bring added flavor and visual appeal just before serving.