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
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
- Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant (about 3 minutes).
- Add marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
- Simmer for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
- Spread a thin layer of sauce in the greased baking dish.
- Toss gnocchi in the sauce and spread evenly in the dish.
- Pour remaining sauce over the gnocchi.
- 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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