How to Make the Perfect Italian Cheesy Baked Gnocchi
Italian · Easy · 30 min · 4 servings
Pillowy soft potato gnocchi baked in a simple tomato sauce and blanketed with melted mozzarella cheese is the ultimate comfort food for kids. It is like a fun twist on pasta bake that comes together in under 40 minutes.
Why this recipe works
This Italian Cheesy Baked Gnocchi recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 30 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 420 calories with 18g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1 lb store-bought potato gnocchi
- 2 cups mild marinara sauce
- 1.5 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 0.5 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 2 tbsp grated Parmesan cheese
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Preheat and Prep
Preheat the oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil. Spread the uncooked gnocchi in an even layer in the prepared dish.
Step 2: Add Sauce and Seasoning
Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the gnocchi. Sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the sauce and drizzle the remaining olive oil on top. Stir gently so the gnocchi is coated in the sauce.
Step 3: Add Cheese and Bake
Scatter the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top followed by the grated Parmesan. Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly and the gnocchi is cooked through.
Step 4: Rest and Serve
Allow the baked gnocchi to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Spoon into bowls and serve with crusty bread on the side if desired.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- store-bought potato gnocchi → any small pasta shape like orecchiette if gnocchi is unavailable
- mozzarella cheese → provolone cheese for a slightly richer melt
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Not resting the dish after baking which means the sauce will be too runny
- Using a spicy marinara sauce that can overwhelm young palates
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 420 calories, 18g protein, 52g carbs, 16g fat, 4g fiber.
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