There’s something undeniably satisfying about a warm, cheesy bake that fills your home with the irresistible aroma of comfort food. If you’re looking for a hearty yet effortless meal, this Easy Gnocchi and Tomato Bake is the perfect choice.

Soft, pillowy gnocchi soak up a rich tomato sauce, bubbling under a blanket of gooey mozzarella and Parmesan. This dish delivers all the indulgence of a classic Italian meal without the hassle of preparing fresh pasta.

Ideal for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this bake is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. It’s simple to make, endlessly customizable, and requires just one dish—less cleanup, more enjoyment. Let’s dive into the ultimate comfort meal!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Ultimate Comfort Food – Rich, cheesy, and packed with flavor, this bake is a true delight.
  • Quick and Easy – Made in just a few steps with minimal prep time.
  • Highly Customizable – Add proteins, veggies, or different cheeses to suit your taste.

Ingredients Overview

This dish calls for a handful of simple ingredients, most of which are pantry staples. Feel free to experiment with variations to suit your preferences.

  • Gnocchi – Store-bought works great for convenience, but homemade can elevate the dish.
  • Tomato Sauce – Use marinara or crushed tomatoes; season to enhance flavor.
  • Cheese – Mozzarella and Parmesan add the perfect creamy and salty balance.
  • Herbs – Fresh basil or parsley for a burst of freshness.

Optional Add-Ins:

  • Vegetables – Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrients.
  • Protein – Ground sausage, shredded chicken, or plant-based alternatives for a heartier meal.

Recipe Details

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4

Equipment

  • Baking dish
  • Large skillet
  • Mixing spoon
  • Saucepan
  • Cheese grater

Ingredients

  • 1 lb (16 oz) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 cups marinara or crushed tomato sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, thyme mix)
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Optional Add-Ins:

  • 1 cup cooked ground sausage or shredded chicken (optional)
  • 1 cup chopped spinach or zucchini (optional)

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a baking dish with olive oil or non-stick spray.

Step 2: Prepare the Gnocchi

Boil gnocchi in salted water for 2–3 minutes until they float. Drain and set aside. If using oven-ready gnocchi, skip this step.

Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
  2. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant (about 3 minutes).
  3. Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  4. Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Assemble the Bake

  1. Spread a thin layer of sauce in the greased baking dish.
  2. Toss gnocchi in the sauce and spread evenly in the dish.
  3. Pour remaining sauce over the gnocchi.
  4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan on top.

Step 5: Bake

Bake for 20–25 minutes or until the cheese is melted, golden, and bubbly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove from the oven, let it rest for 5 minutes, garnish with fresh basil, and serve warm.

Tips for the Best Recipe

  • Use Fresh Herbs – Fresh basil or parsley enhances the dish’s flavor.
  • Add a Crispy Topping – Mix breadcrumbs with Parmesan for a crunchy finish.
  • Spice it Up – A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat to balance the richness.

Variations to Try

  • Make It Meaty – Stir in cooked ground sausage or shredded chicken for added protein.
  • Vegetarian Twist – Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra veggies.
  • Cheese Lovers’ Edition – Swap mozzarella for ricotta or fontina for a richer taste.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! Assemble it up to 24 hours in advance, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

2. How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through.

3. Can I freeze Gnocchi and Tomato Bake?
Absolutely! Assemble the dish (before baking), wrap it tightly, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before baking.

4. What side dishes pair well with this recipe?
Serve with garlic bread, a crisp side salad, or a glass of red wine like Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon.

5. Can I use different sauces?
Yes! Try Alfredo sauce for a creamy twist or pesto for a fresh, herby flavor.

How to Store and Reheat

  • Refrigerate – Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Freeze – Freeze the assembled dish before baking for up to 3 months.
  • Reheat – Warm in a 350°F (175°C) oven until heated through.

Conclusion

This Easy Gnocchi and Tomato Bake is everything you need in a comfort meal—rich, cheesy, and bursting with flavor. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend indulgence, this recipe has got you covered.

With its simple ingredients, one-dish convenience, and endless customization options, you’ll find yourself making it again and again. Try it with different proteins, veggies, or cheeses to make it your own!

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