Baked Gnocchi In Tomato Sauce

Discover the ultimate comfort food: baked gnocchi in tomato sauce.

Whether you're using storebought or homemade gnocchi, this dish promises a mouthwatering blend of tender pasta pillows enveloped in savory tomato sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella.

Perfect for any occasion, it's a quick yet indulgent meal that brings warmth to every bite.

Baked gnocchi in tomato sauce is a quintessential comfort dish that brings together the simplicity of gnocchi with the robust flavors of tomato sauce.

Whether you choose to use store-bought gnocchi for convenience or invest the time to make your own, the result is equally delightful.

Gnocchi, traditionally small dumplings made from potatoes, flour, and sometimes egg, offer a tender and chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the tangy and savory notes of tomato sauce.

The process begins with the gnocchi, which can be gently boiled until they float to the surface or crisped in the oven for a delightful crunch.

Meanwhile, the tomato sauce simmers on the stove, featuring garlic sautéed until golden, ricotta cheese, fragrant herbs like basil and oregano, and chorizo sausage to name a few. And of course a touch of cream to add richness.

Once the gnocchi are cooked and the sauce is prepared, they are lovingly combined and placed in a baking dish.

The gnocchi eagerly soak up the flavors of the tomato sauce, creating a harmonious blend of textures and tastes.

Then, the dish is finished with a generous layer of cheese, which melts and bubbles in the oven, adding a gooey richness that complements the tangy tomato base perfectly.

The appeal of baked gnocchi in tomato sauce extends beyond its delicious flavors—it's a versatile dish that can be adapted to various tastes and occasions.

For a hearty meal on a chilly evening, it provides warmth and comfort with every forkful.

Alternatively, it can be served as a main course at a casual dinner gathering, accompanied by a fresh salad and crusty bread to soak up the remaining sauce.

Its simplicity also makes it a reliable go-to for weeknight dinners when time is of the essence but taste is paramount.

Whether enjoyed alone or shared with loved ones, baked gnocchi in tomato sauce promises a satisfying dish that celebrates the marriage of humble ingredients with vibrant flavors.

From the first bite to the last, it offers a symphony of textures—soft gnocchi, velvety sauce, and gooey cheese—that make it an enduring favorite in kitchens around the world.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

• Comforting Flavors: It combines pillowy gnocchi with rich tomato sauce for a comforting meal.
• Versatility: Works well with store-bought or homemade gnocchi, accommodating different preferences.
• Quick Prep: Easy to assemble and bake, perfect for busy weeknights.
• Family Favorite: Loved by all ages for its hearty and satisfying taste.
• Customizable: Adaptable with various herbs, cheeses, and additions to suit personal taste.

Cost To Make

Estimated cost = $5.25 or $1.30 a serve

Ingredients

Please note that below is a guide for some of the ingredients we used in the recipe. The printable recipe further down the page has the complete list of ingredients, including quantities and step-by-step instructions.

• Fresh or Dry Gnocchi: You could use store bought or homemade gnocchi.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil
• Brown Onion: Finely chopped.
• Chorizo: Fresh or cooked (dried). If you are using fresh chorizo, remove the skin before use.
• Minced Garlic
• Tomato Puree (Tomato Passata)
• Heavy Whipping Cream: Or thickened cream.
• Stock of Choice: Vegetable stock or chicken stock.
• Anchovies: Optional.
• Dried Basil
• Dried Oregano
• Sugar
• Fresh Ricotta Cheese
• Green Onions (Spring Onions): Finely chopped.
• Salt and Pepper
• Cheese: Such as mozzarella or cheddar. Grated.

Equipment

30 cm x 22 cm (11.80 inches x 8.66 inches) baking dish that can hold about 2 litres of liquid.

Instructions

This recipe for baked gnocchi in tomato sauce serves 4. The ingredient quantities can easily be adjusted to suit how many serves you need to make.

Step One: Preheat oven to 180°C (356°F).

Step Two: Cook your gnocchi according to packet instructions. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Step Three: In a medium sized saucepan, heat the oil. Once hot, add the brown onion. Fry until the onions are starting to soften and go lightly brown.

Step Four: Add the chorizo and cook until crisp. If you are using fresh chorizo break it into smaller pieces, if you are using dried chorizo, make sure you cut the chorizo into small pieces before frying.

Step Five: Add the minced garlic and saute for about 1 minute. Be careful not to burn your garlic.

Step Six: Next, add the tomato puree (tomato passata), cream, stock, anchovies (if using), basil, oregano, and sugar. Mix well. Bring the liquid to a simmer and then reduce heat to low medium.

Step Seven: Mix through the fresh ricotta cheese, breaking it up into smaller pieces if necessary. Then add the green onions, and salt and pepper to taste.

Step Eight: Mix through the cooked and drained gnocchi.

Step Nine: Transfer mixture into a casserole dish, making sure the top sites flat.

Step Ten: Top with grated cheese.

Then place in preheated oven and bake for 10 to 15 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Once baked, remove from oven and allow to cool.

Substitutions / Variations

Here are some variations for thisbaked gnocchi in tomato sauce you might like to try:

• Spinach and Ricotta: Add sautéed spinach and ricotta cheese to the tomato sauce.
• Baked with Sausage: Incorporate cooked Italian sausage into the dish for added protein.
• Mushroom Medley: Sauté a mix of mushrooms and garlic to enrich the tomato sauce.
• Pesto Twist: Mix pesto into the tomato sauce before baking for a basil-infused flavor.
• Vegetarian Delight: Load with roasted vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and eggplant.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for a spicy version.

Serving Suggestions

Here are some ways you might like to serve this recipe for baked gnocchi in tomato sauce:

• Classic Dinner: Serve as a main dish with a side salad and crusty bread.
• Appetizer Portion: Serve smaller portions as a hearty appetizer for gatherings.
• Potluck Favorite: Bring to potlucks or parties for a crowd-pleasing dish.
• Family Buffet: Ideal for informal family dinners, served straight from the oven.
• Lunchbox Treat: Pack leftovers in lunchboxes for a delicious work or school lunch.
• Brunch Addition: Pair with scrambled eggs and fresh fruit for a hearty brunch option.

Storage

Store leftovers of this baked gnocchi recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through before serving.

FAQ

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