Gnocchi and Tomato Bake

Gnocchi and Tomato Bake is a warm and comforting Italian-inspired dish that features soft, pillowy gnocchi smothered in a savory tomato sauce and topped with melted, bubbly cheese. This easy one-pan meal delivers cozy flavor and rich textures perfect for a simple dinner or casual entertaining.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-dish convenience: Everything comes together in a single skillet or baking dish.
• Quick and easy: Requires minimal prep and ready in under 40 minutes.
• Satisfying and hearty: Gnocchi absorbs the sauce and bakes up perfectly soft.
• Versatile: Easily customized with vegetables, protein, or different cheeses.
• Family favorite: A cheesy, saucy bake everyone at the table will love.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Potato gnocchi
• Olive oil
• Onion, finely chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Canned chopped tomatoes
• Dried oregano
• Salt and pepper
• Mozzarella cheese, torn or shredded
• Fresh basil, for garnish

Directions

this recipe

1. Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Sauté Aromatics: In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
3. Make the Sauce: Add the canned chopped tomatoes and oregano. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, to thicken slightly and let flavors blend.
4. Add Gnocchi: Stir uncooked gnocchi into the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated and nestled into the pan.
5. Top with Cheese: Sprinkle mozzarella over the top.
6. Bake: Transfer the skillet or pan to the oven. Bake for 20 minutes until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly, and the gnocchi is tender.
7. Garnish and Serve: Let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Add Vegetables: Mix in spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
• Make it meaty: Add cooked sausage, bacon, or shredded rotisserie chicken.
• Spice it up: Include a pinch of red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
• Cheese twist: Combine mozzarella with Parmesan or provolone for added depth.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F or in the microwave until hot. Add a splash of water or sauce if it seems dry.
• Freezing: Freeze before baking. Thaw in the fridge overnight and bake when ready.

FAQs

Do I need to cook the gnocchi before baking?

No, the gnocchi cooks directly in the sauce as it bakes.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, thaw it first or increase baking time slightly if baking from frozen.

Can I use a different type of cheese?

Absolutely. Fontina, provolone, or a blend of Italian cheeses work well.

Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, as long as the cheese and sauce are vegetarian-friendly.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble everything up to a day in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready.

What’s the best pan to use?

An oven-safe skillet or a ceramic baking dish works best for even cooking and easy cleanup.

Can I use fresh tomatoes?

Yes, but they need to be cooked down into a sauce before adding gnocchi.

What goes well with this bake?

Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

Can I add cream to the sauce?

Yes, a splash of cream will make the sauce richer and more luxurious.

Is it gluten-free?

Only if you use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure all ingredients are certified gluten-free.

Conclusion

Gnocchi and Tomato Bake is a fuss-free, oven-baked meal that’s as cozy as it is delicious. With its gooey cheese topping, hearty sauce, and soft gnocchi, this dish is perfect for feeding a family or impressing guests. Whether you keep it simple or add your own twist, it’s a recipe you’ll come back to again and again.

Print