This Gnocchi Pasta Bake is creamy, cheesy, and oh-so-comforting! With soft gnocchi, gooey cheese, and a rich sauce, it’s a warm hug on a plate.
Honestly, who wouldn’t want a big bowl of cheesy goodness? I love making this after a long day. It’s the ultimate cozy dinner that makes me feel right at home!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato gnocchi: This is the star of the dish! You can buy them fresh or frozen. If you want a gluten-free option, try using cauliflower gnocchi which is becoming popular. Just keep an eye on the cooking time; it can differ!
Marinara sauce: A jarred marinara sauce works perfectly here, but homemade is even better if you have the time! If you prefer something spicier, you can add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Or use a pesto sauce for a different flavor twist.
Cheeses: While mozzarella and Parmesan give great flavor and texture, feel free to mix things up! Try using fontina or provolone instead, or add some ricotta for extra creaminess. Vegan cheese options also work if you’re dairy-free.
Olive oil: If you’re out of olive oil, melted butter or avocado oil can be used as substitutions. Either will add a nice richness to the dish!
How Do I Make Sure My Gnocchi Pasta Bake is Perfectly Cheesy and Golden?
A few key tips will help you achieve that perfect melt and golden crust. First, ensure your oven is preheated before baking; this helps the cheese to melt evenly. Don’t skip the breadcrumbs on top, as they give a nice crunch!
- Layer the cheese evenly across your gnocchi and sauce mix. This allows for even melting.
- After baking, let it cool for a few minutes. This helps the cheese to set a bit, making it easier to serve.
- If you want an extra golden topping, broil for the last 2-3 minutes. Just keep a close watch to avoid burning!
The result will be a creamy, cheesy delight that everyone will love!
How to Make Gnocchi Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Gnocchi Bake:
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
- For Flavor:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- For Garnish:
- Fresh basil or rosemary
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Gnocchi Pasta Bake takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 25 minutes to bake, making the total time about 35 minutes. Perfect for a quick and comforting dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
First, set your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when you’re ready to bake.
2. Cook the Gnocchi:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions. You’ll know they are ready when they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Drain the gnocchi and set them aside.
3. Prepare the Sauce:
While your gnocchi cooks, heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it for about 1 minute until fragrant. Next, pour in the marinara sauce and add the dried Italian herbs. Season with salt and pepper. Allow it to simmer for about 5 minutes to let the flavors meld together.
4. Combine Gnocchi and Sauce:
Gently toss the cooked gnocchi in the skillet with the sauce, making sure they are well coated.
5. Assemble the Bake:
Transfer the gnocchi and sauce mixture to a baking dish. Evenly sprinkle the mozzarella over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan and breadcrumbs. This creates a deliciously cheesy crust!
6. Bake to Perfection:
Place the dish in your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown. Keep an eye on it to avoid over-browning!
7. Serve and Garnish:
Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for a few minutes. Then, garnish with fresh basil or rosemary for an added touch of flavor and color.
Enjoy your cheesy, comforting Gnocchi Pasta Bake! It’s the perfect dish to share with family and friends or just devour yourself after a long day.
Can I Use Store-Bought Gnocchi?
Absolutely! Store-bought potato gnocchi is conveniently delicious and perfect for this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking to ensure they turn out soft and fluffy.
What If I Don’t Have Marinara Sauce?
No problem! You can use any tomato-based sauce, such as arrabbiata or roasted red pepper sauce. If you prefer, a creamy alfredo or pesto sauce can also provide a delicious twist!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare it a day ahead! Assemble everything in the baking dish, cover it with plastic wrap, and refrigerate. Just pop it in the oven when you’re ready, adding a few extra minutes to the bake time as it will be cold from the fridge.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply pop it back in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15-20 minutes, or until warmed through. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring occasionally for even heating.