This Gnocchi Pasta Bake is a cozy dish that combines soft, pillowy gnocchi with rich tomato sauce and gooey cheese. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
I love how easy it is to throw this together—just mix, bake, and enjoy! Perfect for chilly nights when you want something comforting without all the fuss.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Gnocchi: You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience, but homemade is always a treat. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free gnocchi made from rice or corn flour.
Marinara Sauce: A good marinara sauce is key for flavor! You can use homemade sauce or a store-bought version. For a spicier kick, look for arrabbiata sauce or add crushed red pepper flakes to taste.
Mozzarella Cheese: While mozzarella is great for its meltiness, you could use provolone or fontina for a different flavor. If you want a stronger bite, consider adding some sharp cheddar.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan gives the best flavor, but if you’re in a pinch, the pre-grated type will work just fine. Nutritional yeast can be a dairy-free substitute if you need it.
How Can You Ensure Perfectly Baked Cheese?
The cheese topping is what makes this dish truly delightful! To get that perfect melty, bubbling, golden layer, keep a few tips in mind:
- Use a mix of cheeses for depth of flavor. Mozzarella for stretch, and Parmesan for that nice crust.
- Baking it at a high temperature helps achieve that golden color quickly. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn.
- If you want an extra crispy top, you can switch on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes but watch closely!
Gnocchi Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Bake:
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme blend)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Gnocchi Pasta Bake takes approximately 10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to bake, totaling around 30 minutes from start to delicious finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C) so it’s nice and hot when the dish is ready to go in.
2. Cook the Gnocchi:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Carefully add the gnocchi to the water and cook them for about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface—this means they’re done! Drain them well and set aside.
3. Sauté the Gnocchi:
In a large oven-safe skillet or cast iron pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the drained gnocchi and sauté for about 2 minutes until they’re slightly browned. This step adds a lovely texture to the dish, though you can skip it if you prefer them softer.
4. Mix in the Sauce and Seasonings:
Stir in the marinara sauce along with the garlic powder and dried Italian herbs. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Mix it gently until the gnocchi are perfectly coated in that delicious sauce.
5. Top with Cheese:
Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top. Then, add the grated Parmesan cheese, spreading it out well.
6. Bake the Dish:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted, turned golden, and is bubbling away beautifully.
7. Garnish and Serve:
Once it’s bubbling and golden, take it out of the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh sliced basil for a pop of color and flavor. Serve warm and enjoy the cheesy goodness of your Gnocchi Pasta Bake!
The result is a comforting dish filled with tender gnocchi in a rich tomato sauce, all topped with a golden, cheesy crust that’s sure to please everyone at the table!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen gnocchi, you can cook them directly from frozen, just a little longer than fresh ones—about 4-5 minutes until they float. There’s no need to thaw them first!
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare everything up to the baking step, cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to bake, add a few extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure it’s heated through.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in individual portions, stirring occasionally for even heating.
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to add extra toppings like spinach, grilled chicken, or sautéed mushrooms for added flavor and nutrition. You can also mix different cheeses, such as adding ricotta or a sprinkle of feta before baking for a unique twist!
