WW Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole – Guilt-Free Comfort Food

You know that awkward moment when someone shows up to a potluck with some gourmet dish, and you’re just holding your store-bought cookies? That was potatoes back in the 16th century.

Gnocchi wasn’t just food—it was a flex. People treated potatoes like gold, and if you served gnocchi, it was basically like saying, “Yeah, I’m fancy like that.” Who knew something so simple could cause such a stir?

Cheese: Bedtime Hero We Never Knew

And speaking of stirring… ever caught yourself sneaking cheese from the fridge late at night? Turns out, that midnight snack could actually be helping you sleep better! (Yes, seriously.) Studies show cheese might reduce the risk of sleep apnea. So, the next time someone side-eyes your cheesy gnocchi casserole obsession, just smile and say, “It’s for my health!” Who knew comfort food could double as self-care?

From Boujee to Bestie: Potato Glow-Up

It’s wild how potatoes went from being a status symbol to everyone’s best friend. Gnocchi has had the ultimate glow-up, too—once a dish for the elite, now baked in casseroles and smothered in cheese for all of us to love. And now, we’ve made it WW-friendly so you can enjoy every bite without worrying about your goals. Because, honestly… who doesn’t deserve a little cheesy goodness in their life?

Table of Contents

Look at the Recipe (Key Highlights)

This WW Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole is bursting with flavor, super easy to make, and perfect for anyone craving comfort food without the guilt! Here’s why this dish deserves a spot on your dinner table:

1. Low-Point, High Flavor

At just 5 WW points per serving, you get all the cheesy, saucy goodness of a classic casserole without derailing your plan.

2. Perfectly Cheesy and Gooey

Thanks to fat-free mozzarella, you’ll still enjoy that ooey-gooey cheesy topping we all love—minus the extra calories!

3. Quick and Simple to Make

From stove to oven to table in just 35 minutes. Ideal for busy weeknights or when you want a no-fuss dinner.

4. Packed with Veggies

Onions and bell peppers add crunch and nutrition, and you can easily toss in more veggies to customize it your way!

5. Meal Prep & Freezer Friendly

Make it ahead for the week or freeze leftovers for a cozy meal later—this casserole has your back!

6. Family-Friendly Comfort Food

Whether you’re cooking for picky eaters or the whole family, this dish is guaranteed to be a hit.

Trust me, this recipe ticks all the boxes: quick, healthy, and ridiculously delicious! What more could you ask for?

Ingredients Needed

• Light butter substitute
• Crushed tomatoes
• Onion
• Bell pepper (any color)
• Garlic
• Fat-free marinara sauce
• Potato gnocchi (not frozen)
• Fat-free mozzarella cheese, shredded
• Parsley (dried or fresh)
• Kosher salt

How to Make WW Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole (Overview)

Sauté the vegetables: Start by cooking the onion and bell pepper in light butter until soft, then add garlic for aromatic flavor.
Prepare the sauce: Stir in crushed tomatoes, marinara, and seasonings, then simmer with gnocchi to absorb the flavors.
Combine and bake: Layer the gnocchi mixture with mozzarella cheese in a baking dish, then bake until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Serve and garnish: Let it rest before serving, and garnish with fresh parsley for a vibrant finish.

Storage & Serving Suggestions

Storage Tips

Storing leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep your WW Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole fresh and fabulous:

1. Refrigerate Like a Pro: Let the casserole cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container or cover the baking dish tightly with foil. It’ll stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days.
2. Freezing for the Future: Want to save some for later? Freeze individual portions or the entire casserole in airtight containers for up to 2 months. Perfect for busy weeknights!
3. Reheat to Perfection: To reheat, use the microwave for quick servings or pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
   Pro tip: Cover with foil to keep the cheese melty and moist!

Serving Tips

Serving this dish is just as fun as making it! Here are a few ideas to elevate your meal:

1. Pair It Up: Serve with a crisp green salad or steamed veggies like broccoli or asparagus for a balanced, colorful plate.
2. Garnish with Flair: Sprinkle fresh parsley or a light dusting of Parmesan cheese (if points allow) for extra pizzazz.
3. Make It a Party: Serve as a main dish at your next dinner gathering. Add a side of garlic bread (WW-friendly, of course!) to wow your guests.
4. Portion Control, Simplified: Use a serving spoon to portion out even servings (about 1/6 of the dish)—no guesswork needed!

Store it, serve it, and savor every bite… because this dish is just that good!

Tips & FAQs

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Simply replace traditional gnocchi with a gluten-free version. Most grocery stores offer gluten-free potato gnocchi, making it an easy swap. Don’t forget to check the marinara sauce label to ensure it’s certified gluten-free for a truly safe and delicious meal.

What protein can I add to this recipe?
If you’re looking to increase the protein content, consider adding lean ground turkey, chicken sausage, or even plant-based options like cooked lentils. Be sure to fully cook the protein before mixing it with the sauce and gnocchi to keep the texture and flavors just right.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe, but it’s best to thaw it first. Keep in mind that frozen gnocchi may release some extra moisture during cooking, so simmer the sauce a bit longer if needed to maintain the right consistency.

What vegetables can I add?
Feel free to customize this casserole by tossing in extra veggies. Zucchini, mushrooms, spinach, kale, or even cherry tomatoes would work beautifully. Simply sauté these vegetables with the onions and bell peppers for a flavorful and nutrient-packed dish.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?
Yes, this casserole is a great make-ahead meal! Assemble it completely, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add 5–10 minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated all the way through.

Why You’ll Love WW Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole

When it comes to comfort food, a bubbling casserole hits all the right notes. This dish brings together the satisfying chew of potato gnocchi with the rich flavors of marinara sauce and the creamy goodness of mozzarella—all while being totally WW’s-friendly! Whether you’re meal-prepping for the week or hosting a family dinner, this WW cheesy casserole recipe is a versatile, easy option that everyone will enjoy.

Why It Works for Weight Watchers

This recipe is packed with flavor yet remains low in calories and WW points, thanks to smart swaps like fat-free mozzarella and light butter substitutes. At just 5 points per serving, it’s perfect for those sticking to their plan without feeling deprived.

I’d love to hear how you make it your own! Leave a comment below and let me know how it turned out, or share a photo of your dish on social media and tag me. Don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family who are looking for the WW Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole fix—they’ll thank you for it!

Print Recipe

Healthy

WW Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole – Guilt-Free Comfort Food

Author: Kristy Cook Cooking Method: Baking, Sauteing Cuisine: Italian Courses: Dinner, Quick & Easy, Weight Watcher Dinner, Weight Watchers Recipes Recipe Keys: Baking Gluten Free Kid-Friendly Quick Meals

Difficulty: Beginner Prep Time 5 mins Cook Time 30 mins Rest Time 5 mins Total Time 40 mins

Cooking Temp: 400  F Servings: 6 Estimated Cost: $ 15 Calories: 309

Best Season: Spring, Summer, Fall, Winter, Autumn

Dietary:

W Weight Watchers Friendly W Weight Watchers Recipes

Description

Indulge in this WW Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole, a healthier comfort food with tender gnocchi, marinara, and melty mozzarella. Just 5 WW points per serving!

Ingredients

Scale

1/2x 1x 2x 3x

• 1 tbsp Light butter substitute: (for sautéing and adding richness.)

• ³⁄₄ cups Crushed tomatoes: (to deglaze the pan and add depth of flavor.)

• 1 small Onion: (chopped, for a touch of sweetness.)

• 1 medium Bell pepper: (, any color, chopped, for crunch and color.)

• 2 cloves Garlic: (, minced, for aromatic flavor.)

• 24 oz Fat-free marinara sauce: (, your favorite brand, low in sugar and WW-friendly.)

• 16 oz Potato gnocchi: (, not frozen, for tender bites of heaven.)

• 1 ¹⁄₂ cups Fat-free mozzarella cheese: (, shredded, for that gooey topping.)

• Parsley: (To taste, dried or fresh, for garnish and brightness.)

• Kosher salt: (To taste, to enhance all the flavors.)

Instructions

Preheat your oven:

1. Set to 400°F (200°C) to ensure a hot oven for bubbling cheese.

Sauté the vegetables:

1. Heat the light butter substitute in a large pan over medium heat. Sauté the onion and bell pepper until softened, about 3–5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute.

Deglaze and simmer:

1. Stir in crushed tomatoes and cook for another 2–3 minutes. Add marinara sauce, gnocchi, parsley, and a pinch of salt. Cover and simmer for about 5 minutes, letting the gnocchi absorb the flavors.

Add the cheese:

1. Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella until it just starts to melt. Be gentle to keep the gnocchi intact.

Assemble and bake:

1. Transfer the mixture to an 8- or 9-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining cheese on top. Bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Rest and serve:

1. Let the casserole cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired.

Nutrition Facts

Servings 6

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Amount Per Serving

Calories 309kcal

% Daily Value *

Total Fat 1.1g2%

Sodium 774mg33%

Potassium 179mg6%

Total Carbohydrate 58g20%

Dietary Fiber 7g29%

Sugars 9g

Protein 20g40%

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Calcium 487 mg

Iron 2 mg

Points per serving 5

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

Note

When I first made this WW Cheesy Gnocchi Casserole, it quickly became a family favorite. My husband, who’s always skeptical of "lightened-up" meals, couldn’t stop raving about how flavorful and satisfying it was. My kids, on the other hand, were all about the gooey, cheesy topping—they went back for seconds (and even thirds!). Watching my family devour a dish that’s both delicious and WW-friendly made me so proud. This recipe proves that healthy eating can be comforting, indulgent, and something everyone enjoys. Now, it’s a staple on our dinner table, and I know it will be on yours too!

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