Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella is a comforting and delicious dish that features soft potato gnocchi baked in a rich tomato sauce and topped with gooey mozzarella cheese. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish, optional)
Timing
Making Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20-25 minutes for baking.
Instructions
Step 1: Preheat Oven
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish with cooking spray or olive oil.
Step 2: Cook Gnocchi
- Boil Gnocchi: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the top, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
- Sauté Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add Tomatoes and Herbs: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld.
Step 4: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce
- Mix Gnocchi and Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the tomato sauce, gently stirring to coat the gnocchi evenly.
Step 5: Bake
- Transfer to Baking Dish: Pour the gnocchi and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
- Bake: Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Step 6: Serve
- Garnish and Enjoy: Remove from the oven and let cool slightly. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired, and serve hot.
Nutritional Information
Here’s a quick overview of the nutritional content of Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella (per serving, based on 4 servings):
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 380 |
| Protein | 15g |
| Fat | 18g |
| Carbohydrates | 42g |
| Fiber | 2g |
| Sugar | 5g |
Tips for Customization
- Add Vegetables: Incorporate sautéed spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.
- Use Different Cheeses: Substitute mozzarella with fontina or provolone for a different cheese flavor.
- Make It Spicy: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick.
Conclusion
Baked Gnocchi with Tomato & Mozzarella is a delightful and easy dish that brings comfort and flavor to your table. With its cheesy topping and hearty tomato sauce, this recipe is sure to be a hit with family and friends. Enjoy this delightful recipe!