Baked Gnocchi with Tomato and Mozzarella Recipe

There’s something magical about a dish that brings family together, and our Baked Gnocchi with Tomato and Mozzarella is exactly that. It’s a comforting embrace of flavors and textures – the pillowy softness of gnocchi, the rich, tangy tomato sauce, and the gooey, melted mozzarella cheese. Imagine all of this coming together in your kitchen, the aroma wafting through your home, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special occasion, this dish is bound to become a cherished favorite for your family. Let’s dive into this comforting culinary creation and make some delicious memories together.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Skill Level: Easy

Ingredients

• 500g gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups tomato sauce
• 1 cup grated mozzarella cheese
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to the package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Add tomato sauce, dried basil, and dried oregano to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
5. Gently toss the cooked gnocchi into the tomato sauce, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
6. Transfer the gnocchi and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle grated mozzarella cheese and Parmesan cheese evenly on top.
7. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Helpful Tips

• For a richer flavor, use fresh mozzarella and tear it into pieces to scatter on top.
• If you want to add some protein, cooked chicken or ground beef can be mixed into the tomato sauce.
• Vegetarians can add sautéed mushrooms or spinach for additional texture and flavor.
• If using homemade gnocchi, ensure they are well-cooked and drained before adding to the tomato sauce.

Storage Instructions

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, place in an oven-safe dish and warm in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through, or microwave until hot.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you’re out of certain ingredients, you can use ricotta cheese instead of mozzarella for a creamier texture, or swap out tomato sauce for marinara for a different depth of flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley can be used instead of basil for a brighter taste.

Suggested Pairings

This Baked Gnocchi with Tomato and Mozzarella pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad and a loaf of crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce. For a refreshing drink, try pairing it with a light and fruity lemonade or a chilled glass of white wine.

At Zynahz, our mission is to bring joy and creativity into the kitchen, fostering connections through the love of food. We hope you feel inspired to bring this Baked Gnocchi with Tomato and Mozzarella into your home. Share your delightful creations with us and spread the love by sharing this recipe with friends and family. For more heartwarming recipes and cooking inspiration, explore our blog, follow us on social media, and sign up for our newsletter. Happy cooking!