Baked Gnocchi
Honestly this is one of those recipes that’s really just more of an idea. It’s so easy you don’t even need a recipe. It uses store-bought gnocchi and store-bought marinara sauce so it really is such a breeze. Plus it’s really versatile too. You can add cooked ground meat, sautéed vegetables, use a homemade marinara sauce, or add different cheeses. I think we all could use more easy recipes like this. So instead of getting take-out again for maybe the second time in a week you’ll have a simple dinner at home to make instead. You’ll be savoring every bite of this easy dinner!
Ingredients Needed for Baked Gnocchi
Gnocchi – refrigerated, frozen or of course homemade gnocchi will be the best option. Marinara sauce – I like to use Rao’s tomato basil sauce, for a cheaper alternative Classico four cheese is another tasty sauce. Homemade will also be delicious. Heavy cream – even though we only add 3 tablespoons it add such a delicious rich and creamy touch to the sauce. Grape tomatoes – these aren’t a must if you don’t have any on hand. Mozzarella – fresh or the standard low-moisture block of mozzarella works great. I’ve used both. Fresh basil – this is totally optional. It just adds a light flavor and pretty color. I’ve also used parsley when that’s what I have on hand.
How to Make Baked Gnocchi
What to Serve with It?
Breadsticks Garlic Bread No Knead Bread with Pesto or good olive oil and pepper for dipping Side salad with Italian dressing
Possible Variations
This recipe can easily be adjusted to suit your taste or use up what you have on hand. Try it with things like:
Cooked sausage Cooked ground beef Sautéed vegetables (like asparagus, carrots, zucchini, eggplant) Parmesan Red pepper flakes Roasted garlic
Tips for the Best Baked Gnocchi
Par-cook (vs. fully cooking) the gnocchi before adding to baking dish so it doesn’t end up soggy in the end. Use a good quality tomato basil sauce for best flavor. One made just a few ingredients like tomatoes, onions, basil, garlic and olive oil. If you like stretchy gooey mozzarella use low moisture block mozzarella, then if you prefer fresher flavor and chewier texture use fresh mozzarella. Stick with refrigerated or even frozen gnocchi if possible. It has a superior flavor to shelf stable gnocchi. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley for a nice pop of fresh green color to add nice contrast.
More Italian Recipes You’ll Love
Alfredo Sauce Chicken Parmesan Italian Wedding Soup Marinara Sauce or a meaty Spaghetti Sauce
