Easy Baked Gnocchi is the ultimate definition of quick and effortless comfort food, and here’s the best part – it’s all cooked up in a single pot. In this delightful meal, you’ll find tender gnocchi swimming in a straightforward tomato-based sauce, all topped with a rich, melted cheese layer. It’s like a warm hug in the form of a hot skillet dinner, packed with scrumptiousness and flavor. With minimal prep, this recipe becomes your top choice for those busy weeknight dinners when time is short, or a cozy weekend meal that fills your heart with warmth.
When Easy Baked Gnocchi comes to comforting dinners, the secret is discovering a recipe that delights everyone in the family, including the most selective eaters. Think about baked casseroles, saucy pasta dishes, and cheesy goodness, and these vegetarian gnocchi recipe ticks all the right boxes. The best part? You can whip it up in under 10 minutes, then let it bake in the oven for just 30 minutes. This couldn’t be much easier or more wonderful.
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Why Easy baked gnocchi recipe so good?
These Easy baked gnocchi have quickly become my favorite one-pan gnocchi dish. It’s simply delicious and incredibly easy to put together, making it perfect for those weeknights when you’re not in the mood for an elaborate cooking session (back to school, anyone?). Surprisingly, it’s elegant enough to share with your guests.
My baked gnocchi recipe is a fulfilling, meatless delight that emanates warmth and encompasses a selection of classic Italian-inspired elements you’d usually encounter in a delightful pasta bake. Even my sister, who isn’t usually a fan of this kind of food, absolutely loved it. That’s saying a lot, I’m thrilled to share it with all of you too.
Tools for this recipe
Ingredients:
- 1 pound (450g) of store-bought gnocchi
- 2 cups of marinara sauce
- 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
- First of all, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
Step 2: Boil Gnocchi
- In a big pot, heat water with a pinch of salt until it comes to a boil.
- Add the gnocchi and cook them until they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
- Simply, strain the gnocchi and place them to the side.
Step 3: Layer the Baking Dish
- Take an ovenproof baking dish and spread a thin layer of marinara sauce at the bottom.
Step 4: Season
- Sprinkle the dried basil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper over the gnocchi.
Step 5: Add Gnocchi
- Place the cooked gnocchi evenly in the dish.
Step 6: Layer with Sauce
- Pour the remaining marinara sauce over the gnocchi, ensuring they are well covered.
Step 7: Cheese Topping
- Evenly scatter the shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
- Finish it by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Step 8: Bake
- Put the baking dish in the oven you’ve already heated and bake it for roughly 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese becomes bubbly and turns a lovely golden brown.
Step 9: Garnish and Serve
- If you like, you can add a touch of freshness by decorating with some fresh basil leaves before serving.
Step 10: Enjoy
- Serve your easy baked gnocchi while it’s hot, and Savor the deliciousness!
These effortless Easy baked gnocchi dish is a crowd-pleaser and perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs and seasonings to make it your own!
Video Recipe:
Do I need to cook the Easy baked gnocchi recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely not! The gnocchi warm up perfectly in the marinara sauce and completes its cooking process in the oven. In fact, the starch released from the gnocchi helps thicken the dish and adds to its rich, comforting texture.
Nutrition Facts (Per Serving) of Easy baked gnocchi:
| Serving Size | 1 serving |
| Calories | Approximately 450 kcal |
| Protein | 17g |
| Carbohydrates | 61g |
| Dietary Fiber | 4g |
| Total Sugars | 7g |
| Total Fat | 15g |
| Saturated Fat | 7g |
| Cholesterol | 35mg |
| Sodium | 1050mg |
Health Benefits of Easy baked gnocchi recipe :
- Protein Source: This dish provides a good amount of protein, which is essential for muscle repair and overall body function.
- Carbohydrate Energy: The carbohydrates in gnocchi are a great source of energy, keeping you fueled throughout the day.
- Dietary Fiber: With some dietary fiber, this meal supports healthy digestion.
- Calcium Boost: Parmesan cheese is rich in calcium, promoting strong bones and teeth.
- Flavorful Herbs: The dried basil and oregano not only add flavor but also potentially offer antioxidant and anti-inflammatory benefits.
- Spices and Seasonings: Garlic powder and black pepper not only enhance flavor but may also have various health benefits, including immune system support.
- Moderate Calories: This dish provides a satisfying meal without excessive calories, making it suitable for various dietary plans.
- Versatile Dish: You can customize it with your favorite herbs and seasonings to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Enjoy your baked gnocchi, a delicious and well-rounded meal.
Variations and substitutions
- If you’re craving some heat, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes. Start with 1/4 teaspoon for a mild kick, or add more if you’re in the mood for spiciness.
- While mozzarella works like a charm in this recipe, you can experiment with other easy-melting cheeses like cheddar. But personally, I adore the classic mozzarella-tomato sauce-basil combination.
- No fresh basil on hand? No worries, You can omit it, but keep in mind that basil contributes a burst of freshness and flavor.
- For an extra dose of protein, sneak in some cooked chicken, such as shredded rotisserie chicken. It’s a tasty addition for meat lovers.
What to serve it with
- Elevate the flavor by serving it with a generous sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and an extra dash of fresh basil. Who can resist more cheese, right? 😉
- For a complete pasta night experience, whip up my signature Garlic Bread Recipe – it’s a family favorite.
- Balance out your meal with a refreshing side salad. Consider mixed greens paired with my Easy Homemade Italian Dressing.
- Looking for a hearty side? It pairs wonderfully with Chicken Milanese or my Easy Baked Pork Tenderloin.
Storage and leftovers
- If you happen to have some leftovers, no need to fret. This baked gnocchi stays fresh in the fridge for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container.
- When you’re ready to enjoy them again, reheat gently over low heat in a covered saucepan or use the microwave until it’s warmed through.
- Just a heads-up, freezing leftovers isn’t recommended as it may affect the texture when thawed. Best to Savor it fresh from the fridge.
FAQ’s
Q. What makes baked gnocchi different from regular gnocchi?
Baked gnocchi takes tender potato dumplings and coats them in a rich sauce, often cheese-based, before baking until bubbly and golden. It’s a cozy, oven-finished twist on the classic stovetop preparation.
Q. Do I need to boil the gnocchi before baking?
Not always, Some recipes call for pre-boiling, especially with store-bought gnocchi, to ensure they’re fully cooked. Others use uncooked gnocchi that cook in the sauce as the dish bakes.
Q. What kind of sauce works best for baked gnocchi?
Tomato-based sauces, creamy Alfredo-style sauces, or even pesto work beautifully. Adding a mix of cheese—like mozzarella, Parmesan, or ricotta—takes it to the next level.
Q. Can I make baked gnocchi ahead of time?
Yes, Assemble the dish up to a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Bake it just before serving, adding a few extra minutes to the cooking time if it’s straight from the fridge.
Q. What protein can I add to baked gnocchi?
Cooked chicken, Italian sausage, or even shrimp are great additions. You can also keep it vegetarian by adding hearty ingredients like mushrooms, spinach, or roasted vegetables.
Q. What sides go well with baked gnocchi?
A fresh green salad with a zesty vinaigrette or steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans make excellent sides. Garlic bread is also a crowd-pleaser for soaking up the extra sauce.
