Irresistibly Easy Gnocchi and Tomato Bake for Cozy Nights

Author: [sofia]
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 25 minutes | Cooling Time: 5 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Italian
Calories: 450 kcal per serving

Introduction

When the evenings turn chilly, there’s nothing quite as comforting as a warm, cheesy, and hearty Italian bake. This Easy Gnocchi and Tomato Bake combines pillowy gnocchi with tangy tomato sauce and melted cheese for a dish that’s both satisfying and simple to make.

Gnocchi, soft little potato dumplings, soak up flavors beautifully, while the combination of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese ensures a bubbling, golden topping. With optional add-ins like sausage, chicken, or fresh vegetables, this dish is versatile, kid-friendly, and perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family meals.

Whether you’re cooking for a family, a date night, or simply craving a comforting Italian classic, this gnocchi bake delivers flavor, warmth, and convenience.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi Bake

• 1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups marinara or crushed tomato sauce (homemade preferred for richer flavor)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tbsp olive oil (for greasing the baking dish and sautéing)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a subtle kick)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Optional Add-ins

• 1 cup cooked ground sausage or shredded chicken (for extra protein)
• 1 cup chopped spinach or zucchini (for added nutrition and freshness)

Equipment

• Oven
• Baking dish
• Skillet or sauté pan
• Pot for boiling gnocchi
• Mixing spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups and spoons

Method

Step 1: Preheat and Prepare

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Lightly grease a baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add gnocchi and cook for 2–3 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface.
3. Drain well and set aside.

Tip: Avoid overcooking gnocchi; they cook very quickly and can become mushy if left too long in boiling water.

Step 3: Make the Sauce

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and onion, sauté until fragrant and the onion is translucent.
3. Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

1. Spread a thin layer of sauce in the bottom of the baking dish.
2. Toss cooked gnocchi in the remaining sauce to coat evenly, then place them in the dish.
3. Pour any leftover sauce on top of the gnocchi.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top.

Step 5: Bake

1. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
2. Remove from the oven and let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

1. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a vibrant touch.
2. Serve warm with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Nutrition (Per Serving)

• Calories: 450 kcal
• Carbohydrates: 50 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Fat: 20 g
  • Saturated Fat: 10 g
  • Polyunsaturated Fat: 1 g
  • Monounsaturated Fat: 5 g
• Cholesterol: 50 mg
• Sodium: 800 mg
• Potassium: 600 mg
• Fiber: 3 g
• Sugar: 5 g
• Vitamin A: 400 IU
• Vitamin C: 5 mg
• Calcium: 300 mg
• Iron: 2 mg

Tips & Variations

• Add protein: Incorporate cooked sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken for a heartier dish.
• Boost nutrition: Mix in vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms before baking.
• Make it spicy: Increase red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.
• Cheese lovers: Add provolone or fontina for extra melty goodness.
• Homemade sauce: Using homemade marinara elevates flavor dramatically; canned crushed tomatoes work in a pinch.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can assemble the bake and refrigerate it for a few hours before baking. Add 5 extra minutes to the baking time if it comes straight from the fridge.

2. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Absolutely. Boil frozen gnocchi according to package instructions before mixing with the sauce.

3. Can I prepare this vegan?
Yes! Use plant-based cheese and gnocchi made without eggs or dairy. Substitute olive oil for butter if needed.

4. How can I prevent the gnocchi from sticking together?
Boil gnocchi until just cooked and drain immediately. Toss lightly with a small amount of olive oil if not using immediately.

5. Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Assemble the bake without cheese topping, freeze, and add cheese during final baking. Alternatively, freeze cooked portions for individual meals.

Conclusion

This Easy Gnocchi and Tomato Bake is a perfect cozy weeknight dinner that combines comfort, convenience, and classic Italian flavors. Its soft, pillowy gnocchi, tangy tomato sauce, and melty cheese create a dish everyone will love, while the optional add-ins allow for endless customization.

Whether you’re serving a family of four or preparing a dish for a small gathering, this bake is simple, satisfying, and ready in under 45 minutes—making it the ultimate comfort food for busy nights or relaxed weekend dinners.

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