This Gnocchi Pasta Bake is a comforting dish that will warm your heart! It features tender gnocchi mixed with a delicious sauce and topped with cheesy goodness, making it a family favorite!
I simply love how easy it is to throw together! Just mix, bake, and enjoy. Plus, leftovers heat up perfectly for lunch—if there’s any left, that is! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gnocchi: Potato gnocchi is great for this dish as it’s soft and fluffy. If you’re looking for a gluten-free option, try using gluten-free gnocchi or even cauliflower gnocchi!
Cherry Tomatoes: These add a burst of freshness. You could substitute with regular diced tomatoes or even roasted ones for a deeper flavor.
Marinara Sauce: A flavorful marinara is key. If you prefer homemade, toss in your diced tomatoes, garlic, and herbs. Store-bought is always a convenient option! You can also use pesto for a different taste.
Cheese: Mozzarella is melty heaven! Feel free to use other melting cheeses like provolone or gouda. If you’re avoiding dairy, use vegan cheese alternatives for a dairy-free version.
How Do You Perfectly Bake Gnocchi Pasta?
Getting that perfect bake requires a few key steps. The goal is soft gnocchi baked under a deliciously crispy cheese layer. Here’s how to do it:
- Preheating the oven is essential. A well-preheated oven ensures even cooking throughout.
- Sautéing garlic and tomatoes before adding gnocchi helps to build flavor. This step is crucial for a rich dish!
- Don’t skip the dollop of ricotta! It adds creaminess that makes the bake extra delicious. You can mix it in with the sauce or layer it on top.
- Watching the bake is important. Keep an eye out to prevent over-browning; you want that cheesy top to be golden, not burnt.
Always remember, cooking is about adjusting to your tastes and making it fun!
Gnocchi Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Bake:
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 cup ricotta cheese (optional for extra creaminess)
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves
- Fresh tarragon or other green herbs (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting Gnocchi Pasta Bake takes about 10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for baking, so you’ll be ready to serve it in just 30 minutes! Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
To begin, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is important as it ensures even cooking for your dish!
2. Sauté the Garlic:
In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Cook the Cherry Tomatoes:
Add the halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook them for about 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften. This will enhance the flavor of your dish!
4. Add the Gnocchi:
Next, stir in the gnocchi and cook for 2 minutes. This will lightly brown them and give extra texture to the bake.
5. Mix in the Sauce:
Pour the marinara or tomato pasta sauce over the gnocchi mixture. Gently fold it in to cover the gnocchi evenly. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste!
6. Add Cheese:
If you’re using ricotta, dollop it over the gnocchi mixture, then sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and half of the grated Parmesan cheese evenly on top. Yum!
7. Bake to Perfection:
Carefully transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake uncovered for about 15-20 minutes. You want the cheese to become melted, bubbly, and beautifully golden brown.
8. Final Touches:
Once baked, remove it from the oven and sprinkle the remaining Parmesan cheese on top. Add fresh basil leaves and any additional herbs like tarragon to enhance the dish’s aroma!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Serve your Gnocchi Pasta Bake hot and enjoy this creamy, cheesy, and comforting meal! It’s sure to be a hit with everyone!
This delightful dish pairs pillowy gnocchi with a rich tomato base topped with golden cheese, perfectly garnished with fresh herbs! Happy cooking!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi can be used directly without thawing. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they heat through completely.
Can I Make This Bake Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish up to step 6, then cover and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to bake, take it out of the fridge for about 30 minutes to bring it to room temperature before baking as directed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave in individual portions.
Can I Substitute Oher Cheeses?
Definitely! If you prefer, you can substitute mozzarella with any melting cheese like provolone or gouda. For a healthier or dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese alternatives for the topping.
