Description
Restaurant-quality comfort food that’s ready in under 45 minutes
Ingredients
The Foundation:
- 1 lb shelf-stable gnocchi: These little potato pillows create the perfect pasta base – easier than fresh pasta with ideal texture
- 2–3 cups rotisserie chicken, shredded: The ultimate shortcut that adds incredible flavor compared to cooking chicken from scratch
- 1 jar (15-16 oz) quality Alfredo sauce: Choose a good brand – this is where most of your flavor comes from
The Flavor Builders:
- 6–8 strips bacon, cooked and crumbled: Adds that essential smoky saltiness that makes everything better
- 2 cups frozen broccoli florets: Saves prep time and cooking perfectly without getting mushy
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic brightens up jarred sauce dramatically
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Provides that classic melty, stretchy cheese pull
- 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Adds creaminess and helps create the perfect golden top
Instructions
1. Set Up for Success
Preheat your oven to 400°F – this higher temperature ensures the top gets golden while the inside heats through completely. Generously spray a 9×13 inch casserole dish with cooking spray to prevent sticking and make serving easier.
2. Prepare the Gnocchi
Cook the gnocchi according to package directions until they’re tender but still have some bite – this usually takes 2-3 minutes for shelf-stable gnocchi. Critical point: Don’t overcook them as they’ll continue cooking in the oven. Drain well and set aside.
Pro tip: Shelf-stable gnocchi are ready when they float to the surface. Fresh gnocchi cook even faster – usually just 1-2 minutes.
3. Create the Perfect Mixture
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine:
- The cooked, drained gnocchi
- Frozen broccoli (straight from the freezer – no thawing needed!)
- Shredded rotisserie chicken
- Crumbled bacon
- Minced garlic
- The entire jar of Alfredo sauce
Stir everything together gently until well coated, being careful not to break up the delicate gnocchi.
Important: Don’t thaw the broccoli first. Frozen broccoli actually works better because it doesn’t release excess moisture that could make your bake watery.
4. Assembly and Cheese Strategy
Spoon the mixture into your prepared casserole dish and spread it out evenly. Top with both shredded cheeses, making sure to get good coverage so every bite has that perfect melted cheese experience.
Cheese tip: Shred your own cheese from blocks rather than using pre-shredded. Pre-shredded cheese has anti-caking agents that prevent smooth, creamy melting.
5. The Perfect Bake
Bake for 20 minutes until the sauce is bubbling around the edges and the cheese is melted. Then switch to broil for 1-2 minutes to achieve that beautiful golden brown top.
Critical broiler warning: Watch carefully during broiling! The difference between perfect golden and burnt is about 30 seconds. Don’t walk away.
6. Rest and Serve
Let the bake rest for 3-5 minutes before serving. This allows the sauce to thicken slightly and prevents you from burning your mouth on molten cheese. Garnish with fresh Parmesan, green onions, or extra bacon for an impressive presentation.
Notes
Prep Bacon Ahead: Cook bacon on weekends and store in refrigerator for quick weeknight meals
Rotisserie Chicken: Buy when on sale and freeze portions for quick meal additions
Gnocchi Storage: Shelf-stable gnocchi keep for months in the pantry – stock up when on sale
Assembly Line Method: Set up all ingredients before starting for smooth, quick assembly
- Prep Time: 20 Minutes
- Cook Time: 22 Minutes
- Cuisine: Italian-American