If you’re on the lookout for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that feels like a warm hug from the inside, this Easy Baked Gnocchi Recipe is exactly what you need. Soft, pillowy gnocchi bathed in a rich marinara sauce, mingled with sweet caramelized onions, fragrant garlic, and topped with a decadent blanket of melted mozzarella—it’s a simple yet utterly satisfying dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or casual dinner parties. The best part is how effortlessly these flavors come together, proving that gourmet comfort food doesn’t have to be complicated.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering delicious ingredients is the first step to this flavorful journey. Each component is simple yet plays a vital role in making this dish shine, from the buttery sweetness of onions to the vibrant punch of basil.
- Butter: Adds richness and a silky base to sauté the onions.
- Onion (1/2 medium, chopped): Brings natural sweetness and depth of flavor when browned.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with its classic aromatic warmth.
- Marinara sauce (24 ounces): The heart of the dish, providing a tangy, herb-filled tomato foundation.
- Potato gnocchi (1 pound, uncooked): Soft, pillow-like dumplings that soak up all the delicious sauce.
- Fresh basil (a handful, torn): Lifts the dish with a fragrant, slightly sweet herbal note.
- Shredded mozzarella (2 cups): Melts to gooey perfection, creating a melty, cheesy topping everyone loves.
- Salt & pepper: Essential seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors.
How to Make Easy Baked Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare
Start by heating your oven to 400F and adjusting the rack to the top third. This ensures the cheese bubbles and browns beautifully when broiling later. Prepping the oven this way sets you up for a perfectly crispy cheese finish.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In an oven-proof skillet, melt the butter over medium heat, then add the chopped onion. Sauté for 5 to 7 minutes until the onion softens and achieves a lovely light brown color—this step really builds the dish’s rich base.
Step 3: Add Garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds. This brief cooking time ensures the garlic flavor is bright and not bitter, creating the perfect aromatic layer.
Step 4: Combine Sauce and Gnocchi
Pour in the marinara sauce and the uncooked potato gnocchi. Stir everything to coat the gnocchi well, and let it come to a gentle bubble. As it simmers briefly, the gnocchi starts to soften and absorb that tasty tomato sauce.
Step 5: Finish with Basil and Mozzarella
Turn off the heat, then fold in the torn fresh basil, which adds a burst of color and freshness. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Transfer the skillet straight into the oven to bake uncovered for 15 minutes, then broil for a few minutes to achieve a golden, bubbly cheese crust. Keep a close eye so it browns perfectly without burning.
Step 6: Rest and Season
After baking, let the gnocchi sit for a few minutes so the flavors settle and the cheese firms up slightly. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper as needed. This dish is fantastic served with freshly grated parmesan and extra basil, making every bite irresistible.
How to Serve Easy Baked Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves placed on top right before serving add a lovely herbal punch and a pop of green that brightens the rich tomato and cheese flavors. A sprinkle of freshly grated parmesan is an elegant, salty finishing touch that takes this dish from wonderful to unforgettable.
Side Dishes
To complement the creamy, cheesy gnocchi, serve alongside a crisp green salad with a lemony vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. These add texture and balance, making your meal feel complete and well-rounded.
Creative Ways to Present
For a cozy dinner party, spoon the Easy Baked Gnocchi Recipe into individual ramekins or small skillets, allowing guests to indulge in their own cheesy, bubbling portions. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers for a special touch that will wow your friends without extra fuss.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making for a tasty next-day meal or lunch.
Freezing
This dish freezes very well if you want to prepare it ahead of time. Freeze in a freezer-safe container, and it will keep for up to 2 months. Defrost in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently in the oven at 350F until warmed through to keep the texture just right and prevent the cheese from becoming rubbery. You can also reheat in a microwave but keep an eye on the cheese to avoid overcooking.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought sauce for this recipe?
Absolutely! Using a good-quality store-bought marinara sauce works wonderfully and makes this Easy Baked Gnocchi Recipe a breeze to prepare without sacrificing flavor.
What type of gnocchi is best for baking?
Potato gnocchi works best due to its soft, pillowy texture that absorbs the sauce nicely and bakes perfectly under the cheese topping.
Can I make this recipe vegan or dairy-free?
Yes! Substitute the butter with olive oil and use a plant-based cheese alternative to keep it vegan. The flavors will still come together beautifully.
How can I add protein to this dish?
Try stirring in cooked Italian sausage, grilled chicken, or even some roasted chickpeas before baking for a protein boost that complements the gnocchi perfectly.
Is it okay to use dried basil instead of fresh?
While fresh basil really brightens the dish, you can use dried basil if that’s what you have. Add it earlier in the cooking process to allow its flavor to infuse properly.
Final Thoughts
This Easy Baked Gnocchi Recipe truly feels like a little celebration on a plate, combining simple ingredients into something absolutely magical. It’s perfect for anyone craving a cozy, cheesy, tomatoey delight that’s effortless enough to whip up any day of the week. Give it a go—you might just find your new favorite comfort meal!
Print
Easy Baked Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Easy Baked Gnocchi recipe combines tender potato gnocchi with a flavorful marinara sauce, sautéed onions, garlic, and fresh basil, all topped with melted mozzarella cheese and baked to bubbly perfection. It’s a comforting and quick dish perfect for a weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
Main 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 cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and position the oven rack to the top third of the oven to prepare for baking.
- Sauté Onions: In an oven-proof skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the chopped onions and sauté for 5-7 minutes until they are softened and lightly browned, enhancing their sweetness and flavor.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Combine Sauce and Gnocchi: Pour in the marinara sauce and add the uncooked gnocchi to the skillet. Stir well to combine and cook until the mixture just begins to bubble. Remove from heat and fold in the torn fresh basil for a burst of freshness.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Spread the shredded mozzarella evenly over the gnocchi mixture. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for 15 minutes. Then broil for a few minutes to brown the cheese on top, keeping a close eye to prevent burning.
- Rest and Serve: Allow the baked gnocchi to rest for a few minutes after removing it from the oven. Season with salt and pepper if desired. Serve with freshly grated parmesan and additional basil for extra flavor, if available.
Notes
- Using an oven-proof skillet simplifies the process by allowing you to cook on the stovetop and bake in the same dish.
- Broiling the cheese at the end adds a lovely golden crust, but watch carefully to avoid burning.
- This recipe can be customized by adding cooked vegetables or protein for variation.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven.
