When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can compete with the sheer joy of a cheesy, hearty bake.
This Gnocchi and Tomato Bake is the perfect marriage of tender gnocchi, tangy tomato sauce, and gooey, melted cheese.
Whether you’re feeding a hungry family or preparing a dish for a cozy date night, this recipe is sure to please.
Let’s dive in!
What Makes Gnocchi and Tomato Bake So Special?
This dish combines the best of two worlds: the satisfying heartiness of a casserole and the indulgent flavors of Italian pasta dishes.
- Texture Heaven: Gnocchi’s pillowy softness contrasts beautifully with the rich, bubbly cheese and robust tomato sauce.
- Easy and Versatile: It’s a one-dish wonder, perfect for busy weeknights or casual entertaining.
- Comfort Food Perfection: The combination of flavors and textures makes it the ultimate dish to satisfy cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious dish, you’ll need a handful of simple ingredients, many of which you probably already have in your pantry or fridge.
Main Ingredients:
- Gnocchi: Use store-bought for convenience or homemade if you’re feeling ambitious.
- Tomato Sauce: Marinara or crushed tomatoes work beautifully. Add seasoning for extra depth.
- Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan are classic choices, but ricotta or fontina can add variety.
- Herbs: Fresh basil and parsley elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
Optional Add-Ins:
- Vegetables: Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for a veggie-packed twist.
- Protein: Ground sausage, shredded chicken, or plant-based alternatives for a heartier version.
Step-by-Step Guide
Making this dish is straightforward and stress-free. Here’s how:
- Preheat the Oven: Set your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish.
- Prepare the Gnocchi: Boil gnocchi according to the package instructions, or use them straight from the package if they’re oven-ready.
- Cook the Sauce:
- Heat olive oil in a skillet.
- Sauté garlic and onions until fragrant.
- Add crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce, and season with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.
- Simmer for 5–10 minutes.
- Assemble the Bake:
- Spread a layer of sauce in the baking dish.
- Add the cooked gnocchi, tossing to coat them in sauce.
- Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
- Bake: Place the dish in the oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil and serve immediately.
Tips for Customizing Your Gnocchi and Tomato Bake
This recipe is highly adaptable, allowing you to get creative:
- Add Protein: Mix in cooked sausage, ground turkey, or shredded chicken for a meaty version.
- Incorporate Veggies: Layer in spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms for added nutrients.
- Experiment with Cheeses: Try ricotta, gouda, or even vegan cheese for a different flavor profile.
Serving Suggestions
To make this meal even more satisfying, consider pairing it with:
- Garlic Bread: Perfect for scooping up the extra sauce. Click here for a recipe.
- Side Salad: A crisp Caesar or arugula salad balances the richness. You can find our salad recipes here.
- Wine Pairing: A robust red wine like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon complements the dish’s flavors.
FAQ’s
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble the bake, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. Bake as directed when ready to serve.
How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.
Can I freeze Gnocchi and Tomato Bake?
Absolutely! Freeze the fully assembled dish (before baking) for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.
Easy Gnocchi and Tomato Bake
Ingredients
- 1 lb 16 oz gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups marinara or crushed tomato sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic minced
- 1 small onion finely chopped
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning oregano, basil, thyme mix
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Optional Add-Ins:
- 1 cup cooked ground sausage or shredded chicken optional
- 1 cup chopped spinach or zucchini optional
Instructions
Preheat the Oven
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Prepare the Gnocchi
- If your gnocchi needs cooking, boil them in salted water for 2–3 minutes or until they float. Drain and set aside.
- Oven-ready gnocchi can be used directly.
Make the Tomato Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté the garlic and onion until fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Assemble the Bake
- Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of the greased baking dish.
- Add the gnocchi, tossing gently to coat them in the sauce.
- Pour the remaining sauce evenly over the gnocchi.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan over the top.
Bake
- Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.
Garnish and Serve
- Remove the dish from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.