This baked gnocchi dish combines tender gnocchi with a rich tomato sauce and melted cheese, creating a comforting and satisfying meal. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy gathering.
The recipe is simple and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or proteins. It requires basic cooking techniques and is sure to please everyone at the table.
Overview of Cheesy Baked Gnocchi
This delightful dish brings together tender gnocchi and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with layers of melted mozzarella and golden Parmesan cheese.
Perfect for a cozy dinner, this meal is not only satisfying but also visually appealing, making it a great choice for gatherings or family dinners.
Ingredients That Make a Difference
The key to this dish lies in its simple yet flavorful ingredients.
Using high-quality marinara sauce enhances the overall taste, while fresh basil adds a burst of freshness.
Feel free to customize the recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins to make it your own.
Preparation Steps
Preparing cheesy baked gnocchi is a straightforward process that can be completed in about 30 minutes.
Start by cooking the gnocchi until they float, indicating they are ready.
Combine them with the marinara sauce and seasonings before transferring to a baking dish, which will hold all the deliciousness.
Baking to Perfection
Once assembled, the dish is topped with generous amounts of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Baking it in a preheated oven allows the cheese to melt and bubble, creating a golden crust that is simply irresistible.
Keep an eye on it to ensure the cheese reaches that perfect level of golden brown.
Serving Suggestions
This dish is best served hot, straight from the oven.
Garnishing with fresh basil not only adds color but also enhances the flavor profile.
Pair it with a simple salad or crusty bread for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Dish
Cheesy baked gnocchi is a comforting dish that appeals to both adults and children alike.
Its creamy texture and rich flavors make it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights or special occasions.
With its ease of preparation and delightful taste, this dish is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Easy Cheesy Baked Gnocchi
This baked gnocchi features pillowy gnocchi tossed in a savory tomato sauce and topped with a generous layer of mozzarella cheese. The dish takes about 30 minutes to prepare and serves 4 people.
Ingredients
- 1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Cook the Gnocchi: In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, marinara sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Mix until the gnocchi are well coated.
- Assemble the Dish: Transfer the gnocchi mixture to a baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, let cool slightly, and garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot.
Cook and Prep Times
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 450kcal
- Fat: 20g
- Protein: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 55g