Trader Joe's freezer section is known for pasta shortcuts, and their Gnocchi al Gorgonzola is no exception. This creamy, cheesy frozen dish combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a bold gorgonzola cheese sauce for a one-pan meal that's ready in under 10 minutes.
Sold in the freezer aisle for $3.79, this 16-ounce bag is labeled as two servings, but how much flavor are we really getting from this cheesy shortcut?
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Review
Gorgonzola is one of those cheeses that doesn't try to please everyone, and I mean that in the best way. It's bold, funky, and not subtle. So I had some pretty strong curiosity (and a little hesitation) going into this bag of Gnocchi al Gorgonzola.
Out of the freezer, the gnocchi and frozen cheese cubes don't look like much. But once everything hits the pan, the sauce melts down into a velvety, thick coating that smells decadent and distinctly blue cheesy.
Let's talk texture first: The gnocchi were surprisingly tender. For a frozen pasta, they held up well and weren't rubbery or overcooked. I used a nonstick pan on medium heat and didn't add anything else, and the result was a creamy, clingy sauce that coated each bite without breaking.
Now the flavor. If you're expecting something like Alfredo, think again. This is a straight-up gorgonzola-forward dish. The funk of the blue cheese comes through loud and clear. It's rich, savory, and lingers-but in a way that'll delight cheese lovers. If you're a fan of brie or bleu, you'll love this. If not, this might be a hard pass.
The richness is real, too. I found it hard to eat a full "serving" (as labeled) without feeling weighed down. This is definitely a dish that benefits from balance. I highly recommend adding something green like sautéed spinach, peas, or arugula, or a squeeze of lemon to cut the richness.
It's a niche product, for sure. But if you're the type who goes straight for the cheese section at Trader Joe's, this will feel like a freezer win.
Ingredients
Key ingredients include:
- Potato gnocchi
- Gorgonzola cheese
- Cream
- Milk
- Butter
- Natural flavors
- Salt and pepper
Contains milk and wheat. Not gluten-free or vegan.
How to Prepare
Stovetop (recommended)
- Pour contents of bag into a nonstick skillet.
- Heat over medium for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Sauce will melt and thicken as it cooks-no need to add water or oil.
Microwave
- Heat on high for 4 minutes. Stir. Microwave for another 3 minutes. Stir and serve.
Optional: Add steamed broccoli, spinach, or frozen peas during the last 2-3 minutes to make it a more complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
- Top with toasted walnuts for added crunch and contrast.
- Add arugula or spinach to mellow out the richness.
- Pair with grilled chicken or roasted veggies to round it out.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze for a sweet, tangy contrast.
- Serve with a crisp white wine like sauvignon blanc or pinot grigio.
FAQs about Trader Joe's Gnocchi al Gorgonzola
The following are commonly asked questions about this product:
Yes. The gorgonzola flavor is assertive, so this is best for those who enjoy bold cheeses.
The bag contains about two servings, but due to the richness, you might stretch it further with add-ins.
Technically yes, but it's best on the stovetop for even melting and better texture.
It can be reheated gently on the stove, though the sauce may thicken. Add a splash of milk to loosen it.
Final Thoughts
Trader Joe's Gnocchi al Gorgonzola is a great example of a product that leans into its identity. It's rich, cheesy, and unapologetically bold. If you're into funky cheeses and want a comforting pasta dish that doesn't require more than one pan and 10 minutes, this is for you.
Just know going in: it's rich. Like, split-a-bag-with-a-salad kind of rich. Add a handful of greens, toast up some nuts, and enjoy it as the centerpiece of a cozy weeknight dinner. For gorgonzola lovers, it's absolutely worth grabbing.
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Trader Joe’s Gnocchi al Gorgonzola
Product Name: Trader Joe’s Gnocchi al Gorgonzola
Product Description: Trader Joe’s Gnocchi al Gorgonzola is assertive and can be made in under 10 minutes.
Price: $3.79
Currency: USD
Availability: InStoreOnly
Summary
Trader Joe’s Gnocchi al Gorgonzola is a long-time favorite in the freezer aisle, and if you are into strong, assertive cheeses, this may be for you.
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Taste
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Value
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Worthy of Repurchasing
Pros
- Rich and bold flavor: Perfect for gorgonzola or blue cheese lovers.
- Quick and easy: Ready in under 10 minutes with no prep.
- Creamy sauce: Melts smoothly and coats the gnocchi evenly.
- Affordable: Great price for a hearty meal.
- Customizable: Easy to elevate with greens or protein.
Cons
- Very rich: A little goes a long way—can feel heavy.
- Not for everyone: Strong gorgonzola flavor may be polarizing.
- No veggies or protein: Needs something else to be a full meal.
- Not gluten-free: Contains wheat-based gnocchi.
mltrautz@yahoo.com says
I do like blue cheese, but I don't know that I like gnocchi.
Mary Bialoglow says
The texture of the gnocchi is all wrong. This gnocchi is doughy and chewy. Gnocchi should be tender and light. My daughter has made Lidia Bastianich's recipe for gnocchi, and those are the gold standard.
becomebetty says
Thanks for sharing Mary!
Kat says
That’s why I love it, the texture is chewy and different from most gnocchi. I love chewy things, and right now this is my absolute favorite comfort food on the planet.
becomebetty says
Thanks for sharing Kat!