There’s something undeniably comforting about a bubbling dish of Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella. Picture this: the moment you slide a casserole into the oven, the rich aroma of garlic and melted cheese wafts through your kitchen, wrapping you in warmth like a cozy blanket. This recipe brings together pillowy potato gnocchi and a luscious, tangy tomato sauce, all topped with gooey mozzarella that’s perfectly browned and deliciously melty.
After a long day, nothing beats the ease of a wholesome meal that’s ready in just 30 minutes! This dish is more than just a quick fix; it’s the kind of crowd-pleaser that converts even the most dedicated fast-food lovers. Whether you’re feeding the family or hosting a few friends, this baked delight effortlessly combines simplicity with satisfaction. Join me in creating a delicious, memorable meal that speaks to the heart of homemade comfort food!
Why is Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella so special?
Simplicity: This recipe utilizes just a handful of ingredients, making it accessible for anyone, regardless of cooking skills.
Comfort Food Delight: The rich tomato sauce paired with fluffy gnocchi and gooey cheese delivers warmth and satisfaction, perfect for cozy nights.
Quick Preparation: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish appeals to everyone, likely converting any fast food enthusiast into a homemade food lover.
Versatile Options: Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or switch to gluten-free gnocchi for an inclusive meal option. Dive into this delicious experience and bring joy back to the dinner table!
Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella Ingredients
For the Gnocchi
• Potato Gnocchi – This is the base of the dish, providing a comforting and hearty texture; feel free to use gluten-free gnocchi if needed.
For the Sauce
• Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing garlic and enhancing flavor while preventing sticking.
• Garlic (3 cloves, minced) – Adds fragrant, savory depth to your sauce, making it irresistible.
• Crushed Tomatoes (1 can, 14 ounces) – Forms the sauce’s base, bringing acidity and moisture to the dish.
• Dried Oregano (1 teaspoon) – Infuses the sauce with herby goodness that complements the tomatoes.
• Dried Basil (1 teaspoon) – Adds aromatic notes that beautifully balance the rich tomato flavor.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential seasonings to taste that enhance the overall flavor of your Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella.
For the Topping
• Shredded Mozzarella Cheese (1 cup) – Offers a rich, creamy texture and melts to a delicious, bubbly perfection.
• Grated Parmesan Cheese (1/4 cup) – Adds a sharp, savory kick to the cheesy topping that everyone will love.
• Fresh Basil Leaves (for garnish, optional) – Creates a fresh, aromatic finish and elevates the dish’s presentation when served.
How to Make Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella
-
Preheat your oven: Begin by setting your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures it’s perfectly hot when your dish goes in! Grease a baking dish lightly with cooking spray or olive oil.
-
Cook the gnocchi: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, which takes about 2-3 minutes. Drain them well and set aside.
-
Sauté the garlic: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, or until it becomes fragrant, but be careful not to let it brown.
-
Make the sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and deepen.
-
Combine gnocchi with sauce: Add your cooked gnocchi to the skillet, gently tossing them in the sauce to coat evenly. This is where the comfort begins!
-
Transfer to a baking dish: Pour the gnocchi and tomato sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. It’s time to make it cheesy!
-
Top with cheeses: Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese generously over the top of your gnocchi mix. Every bite should be cheesy bliss!
-
Bake to perfection: Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Keep an eye out for that beautiful, inviting crust!
-
Garnish and serve: Once done, remove from the oven and let it cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for an aromatic touch, then serve hot and enjoy!
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of olive oil before serving for an extra flavor boost.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella?
Nothing complements a cozy dinner like delicious side dishes that elevate your meal to a new level of comfort!
-
Garlic Bread: This classic favorite adds a crispy, buttery element that pairs perfectly with the gooey cheese and rich tomato sauce. A must-have for mopping up every last drop of sauce!
-
Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing salad with crisp greens and a tangy vinaigrette provides a flavorful contrast to the hearty gnocchi, adding a burst of freshness to your plate.
-
Roasted Vegetables: Colorful, caramelized veggies bring an array of flavors and textures, making your meal more satisfying while adding nutrient-packed goodness alongside the comforting gnocchi.
-
Sautéed Spinach: Lightly sautéed spinach with garlic offers a nutritious boost that complements the soft gnocchi, ensuring your meal is well-rounded yet uncomplicated.
-
Creamy Polenta: The creaminess of polenta echoes the comfort of baked gnocchi while imparting a different texture, making it a wonderful comforting side dish to enjoy together.
-
Red Wine: A glass of dry red wine, such as Chianti, enhances the rich flavors of the gnocchi and elevates the entire dining experience with its aromatic bouquet.
-
Tiramisu: Conclude your dinner with a classic tiramisu—it’s a delightful, refreshing dessert that perfectly balances the savory meal with its coffee and cream flavors.
Storage Tips for Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella
-
Room Temperature: Baked Gnocchi should not be left out at room temperature for more than 2 hours to ensure food safety.
-
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and ready for quick reheating.
-
Freezer: If you wish to freeze, place portions in freezer-safe containers or bags, storing for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
-
Reheating: For the best texture, reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, about 20 minutes. You can also use the microwave, but expect a softer texture.
Make Ahead Options
These Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella are ideal for meal prep, making busy weeknights a breeze! You can cook the gnocchi and prepare the sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply store them separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. To maintain quality, refrigerate the sauce and gnocchi separately to prevent them from becoming mushy. When you’re ready to serve, combine them in a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden. By prepping ahead, you’ll enjoy a comforting and satisfying meal with minimal effort, just like homemade!
Expert Tips for Baked Gnocchi
-
Avoid Sticking: Always cook the gnocchi in well-salted boiling water to prevent them from clumping together. This ensures your Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella is easy to serve.
-
Cheese Distribution: Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan evenly across the top, so every bite is deliciously cheesy. This makes for the ultimate comfort dish.
-
Flavor Boosting: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce while it simmers for a delightful kick that compliments the tomato’s sweetness beautifully.
-
Homemade Variations: Feel free to substitute the potato gnocchi with cauliflower gnocchi for a gluten-free option, catering to dietary preferences effortlessly.
-
Resting Time: Let your baked dish cool slightly before serving; this allows the cheese to set and makes for easier slicing. Enjoy!
Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella Variations
Feel free to get creative with your Baked Gnocchi recipe and make it your own!
-
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi to cater to dietary restrictions without sacrificing flavor.
-
Vegetable Additions: Toss in sautéed spinach or zucchini to the sauce for added nutrition and vibrant color!
-
Fresh Tomatoes: Swap canned tomatoes for fresh ones in season; just chop them and let them simmer a bit longer for extra freshness.
-
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses, like fontina or goat cheese, for a unique taste twist that excites your palate.
-
Herb Variations: Try adding fresh herbs like thyme or rosemary for a fragrant boost. These herbs can deepen the dish’s aromatic profile.
-
Spicy Kick: Include a sprinkle of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle heat that balances the sweetness of the tomatoes.
-
Nutty Flavor: Top with toasted pine nuts or walnuts after baking for added crunch and a delightful nutty taste!
-
Creamy Sauce: Stir in a dollop of ricotta or a splash of heavy cream to the sauce for a richer, creamy texture that melts in your mouth.
Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella Recipe FAQs
What type of gnocchi should I use?
You can use store-bought potato gnocchi for convenience or make your own from scratch if you’re feeling adventurous! If you’re gluten-sensitive, opt for gluten-free gnocchi, which is readily available in most grocery stores.
How should I store leftovers?
Absolutely! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just be sure it’s cooled to room temperature before sealing to avoid condensation. For best results, reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.
Can I freeze Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella?
Yes, you can! To freeze, let the baked dish cool completely, then divide it into portions and place them in freezer-safe containers or bags. This way, you can enjoy it later! It’ll last for up to 2 months in the freezer. When ready to eat, just thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes.
What if my gnocchi is sticking together?
If your gnocchi are clumping together, it likely means the water wasn’t salted enough. Always cook the gnocchi in a generous amount of well-salted boiling water; this not only enhances flavor but also helps prevent them from sticking. Additionally, make sure to stir them gently during cooking.
Are there any allergies I should consider?
If you or your guests have dietary restrictions, check the ingredient labels when buying gnocchi and cheese as they can contain gluten, dairy, or other allergens. You might want to substitute dairy cheese with vegan cheese for a lactose-free version or consider ingredients like nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor without the dairy.
What can I add to make this dish more nutritious?
To enhance nutrition, consider adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the sauce. Alternatively, toss in cooked lentils or chickpeas for added protein, making this dish not only comforting but also packed with nutrients!
Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella for Cozy Nights
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and grease a baking dish lightly with cooking spray or olive oil.
- In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil, add the potato gnocchi and cook until they float, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let simmer for about 5 minutes.
- Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, gently tossing to coat.
- Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese on top.
- Bake in the oven for 15-20 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, garnish with fresh basil leaves, and serve hot.