Name: Easy Gnocchi and Tomato Bake Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
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; 1 cup cooked ground sausage or shredded chicken; 1 cup chopped spinach or zucchini

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Introduction

This easy gnocchi and tomato bake is a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Ready in under an hour, it combines tender gnocchi with flavorful tomato sauce and melted cheese for a satisfying meal everyone will enjoy.

The image shows a rectangular black baking dish filled with a baked gnocchi dish. The bottom layer is a thick, bright red tomato sauce covering the entire dish. On top, there are plump, golden-yellow gnocchi pieces spread evenly. The top layer is melted cheese that has browned slightly in places, creating a bubbly and textured look. Scattered over the cheese are fresh green basil leaves and a sprinkling of finely grated parmesan cheese, adding a touch of texture and contrast. The baking dish is placed on a wooden board, visible around the edges. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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
1 cup cooked ground sausage or shredded chicken (optional)
1 cup chopped spinach or zucchini (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.
Step 2: If using uncooked gnocchi, boil them in salted water for 2–3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside. Oven-ready gnocchi can be used directly.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic and chopped onion until fragrant and translucent, about 3–4 minutes.
Step 4: Add marinara sauce, dried Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to the skillet. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 5: Spread a thin layer of the tomato sauce on the bottom of the greased baking dish. Add the cooked gnocchi and toss gently to coat them in the sauce.
Step 6: Pour the remaining tomato sauce evenly over the gnocchi. If using, add cooked ground sausage or shredded chicken and chopped spinach or zucchini now.
Step 7: Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
Step 8: Bake in the preheated oven for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
Step 9: Remove from the oven and let the dish rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve warm.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, omit the meat and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.
Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture, but reduce the amount slightly as it melts more than shredded.
Try swapping marinara sauce for a spicy arrabbiata sauce for an extra kick.
If you prefer a crispy top, broil the dish for 2–3 minutes after baking, watching carefully to avoid burning.

Storage

Store leftover gnocchi bake in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10–15 minutes until heated through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring halfway.

How to Serve

A black rectangular baking dish filled with a baked gnocchi dish, showing two main layers: the bottom layer is a thick red tomato sauce with soft gnocchi pieces visible around the edges, the top layer is a bubbling, golden-brown melted cheese layer that covers the gnocchi and sauce, sprinkled with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh green basil leaves scattered on top. The baking dish sits on a light wooden board with a white marbled texture surface underneath. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used. Cook them according to package instructions before assembling the bake to ensure they don’t become mushy.

Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Assemble the dish, cover it tightly with foil, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking. Add a few extra minutes to the baking time if baking straight from the fridge.