Baked Gnocchi

Baked Gnocchi is a comforting and satisfying dish that combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a rich marinara sauce and gooey mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make recipe transforms simple ingredients into a flavorful skillet meal baked to perfection in the oven. Sautéed onions and garlic add depth to the marinara sauce, while fresh basil lends a hint of freshness.

Topped generously with melted mozzarella and finished under the broiler for a golden crust, this dish promises a delightful balance of flavors and textures. Perfect for a cozy dinner any night of the week, it pairs wonderfully with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and extra basil for a finishing touch.

Baked Gnocchi

Ingredients:

2 tablespoons butter

1/2 medium onion chopped

3 cloves garlic minced

1 (24 ounce) jar marinara sauce

1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi

1 handful fresh basil torn

2 cups shredded mozzarella

Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 400F and move the rack to the top third of the oven.

Add the butter and onion to an oven-proof skillet and sauté over medium heat for 5-7 minutes or until the onion is softened and lightly browned.

Stir in the garlic and cook for 30 seconds.

Add in the marinara and gnocchi and give it a good stir. Once it starts to bubble a bit, turn the heat off and stir in the basil.

Top evenly with the mozzarella and transfer the skillet to the oven. Bake, uncovered, for 15 minutes. Broil for a few more minutes to brown the cheese (watch it carefully so it doesn’t burn).

Let it sit for a few minutes prior to serving, then season with salt & pepper if needed and enjoy! It’s extra delicious served with some freshly grated parmesan and more fresh basil if you happen to have some left.

Notes:

Flavorful Base: The recipe begins by sautéing onions and garlic in butter, creating a fragrant and savory base for the dish. This step caramelizes the onions, enhancing their sweetness and depth of flavor.

Convenience with Marinara Sauce: Utilizing a jar of marinara sauce streamlines preparation without sacrificing taste. It adds rich tomato flavor and convenience, making this dish ideal for quick weeknight dinners.

Gnocchi Texture: Potato gnocchi are added directly to the sauce, allowing them to absorb the flavors while cooking in the oven. This results in tender gnocchi with a satisfying texture that contrasts with the melted mozzarella cheese.

Fresh Ingredients: Torn fresh basil is stirred into the sauce, infusing the dish with bright, herbaceous notes that complement the richness of the marinara and mozzarella.

Oven Baking: Baking the gnocchi in an oven-proof skillet ensures even cooking and allows the flavors to meld together. The final step of broiling melts and browns the cheese, creating a golden crust that adds visual appeal and texture.

Final Touches: Resting the dish briefly before serving allows the flavors to settle. Adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper ensures the dish is perfectly balanced. Serving with additional Parmesan cheese and fresh basil enhances the presentation and taste.

Versatile Serving Suggestions: This dish stands well on its own but can be customized with additional toppings like red pepper flakes for spice or a drizzle of olive oil for richness. It pairs excellently with a side salad or crusty bread for a complete meal.

Family-Friendly and Crowd-Pleasing: Baked Gnocchi is a family-friendly recipe that appeals to all ages due to its comforting flavors and cheesy appeal. It’s also a great option for entertaining guests, as it can be prepared ahead and baked just before serving.

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Leftover Potential: Leftovers of Baked Gnocchi can be stored in the refrigerator and reheated, though it’s best enjoyed fresh for optimal texture and flavor.

Adaptability: This recipe is versatile; you can customize it by adding cooked sausage, spinach, or other vegetables to suit your preferences, making it adaptable to various dietary needs and tastes.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use pre-made gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, you can use store-bought gnocchi instead of making it from scratch.

Follow the package instructions for cooking before adding them to the skillet.

Can I use other types of cheese besides mozzarella?

Yes, you can substitute mozzarella with other cheeses like cheddar, provolone, or even a blend of cheeses for a different flavor profile.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Simply omit the chicken or meat-based marinara sauce and opt for a vegetarian marinara sauce or tomato sauce instead.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it before baking.

When ready to serve, bake it according to the instructions.

What can I serve with baked gnocchi?

Baked gnocchi pairs well with a side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I freeze leftovers of baked gnocchi?

Yes, you can freeze leftovers in an airtight container.

Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through.

Can I add meat or vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, you can add cooked sausage, ground beef, mushrooms, spinach, or other vegetables to the skillet before baking for added flavor and texture.

What should I do if the cheese browns too quickly under the broiler?

Keep an eye on the dish while broiling to prevent burning. If the cheese starts to brown too quickly, cover the skillet with foil and continue baking until heated through.

Is there a substitute for basil in this recipe?

If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil or other fresh herbs like parsley or oregano.

Can I use a different sauce instead of marinara?

Yes, you can experiment with different sauces such as Alfredo sauce, pesto, or a homemade tomato sauce with different herbs and seasonings.