This Gnocchi Pasta Bake combines soft, fluffy gnocchi with creamy sauce and melted cheese for a cozy meal. It’s the perfect weekend dish that feels special yet easy to make!
This bake always makes my kitchen smell amazing! I love topping it with fresh herbs for a pop of color and flavor. Trust me, leftovers (if there are any!) are just as good! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Gnocchi: This is the star of the dish! You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience. If you want to experiment, try substituting with whole grain or cauliflower gnocchi for a healthier twist.
Marinara Sauce: A good sauce adds great flavor. I love using homemade marinara, but jarred sauce works well too. For a twist, consider a pesto or Alfredo sauce if tomatoes aren’t your thing.
Cheese: Mozzarella is classic for melting and creaminess, while Parmesan adds a nice sharpness. If you’re dairy-free, try using cashew cheese or a vegan cheese blend.
Onion & Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic provide wonderful flavor. If you’re in a hurry, onion powder and garlic powder can work in a pinch.
Fresh Herbs: They brighten up the dish. I recommend parsley or basil. Dried herbs are also fine if you don’t have fresh on hand.
How Do I Get My Gnocchi Pasta Bake Nice and Cheesy?
The key to achieving that delicious, cheesy topping is layering! Start by keeping some cheese for the top layer. This not only makes it look better but also ensures that it gets beautifully browned and bubbly during baking.
- After layering half the gnocchi and sauce, sprinkle half the cheese, then repeat with the remaining mixture.
- For an extra touch, broil the dish for 1-2 minutes after baking to get a crispy top, just keep an eye on it!
Enjoy your cooking! This Gnocchi Pasta Bake is sure to be a hit at your dinner table!
Gnocchi Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups marinara or tomato pasta sauce
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
For Cooking:
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Seasoning:
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh herbs (such as parsley or thyme), chopped for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Gnocchi Pasta Bake takes about 10 minutes for prep and 25-30 minutes for baking. You’ll spend around 5 minutes cooking the gnocchi and sautéing the onions, plus a few more minutes layering everything in the baking dish. It’s an easy and comforting dish that’s perfect for a cozy meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C) so it’s nice and hot when your bake is ready to go in.
2. Cook the Gnocchi:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook them according to package instructions, usually until they float (about 2-3 minutes). Drain them well and set aside.
3. Sauté Onions and Garlic:
In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until it smells fragrant, but be careful not to burn it!
4. Make the Sauce:
Pour in the marinara sauce and add the dried Italian herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let this simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors can mix together beautifully.
5. Combine Gnocchi and Sauce:
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the cooked gnocchi with your flavorful sauce mixture. Make sure the gnocchi are coated well.
6. Layer in a Baking Dish:
Transfer half of the gnocchi and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Sprinkle half of the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over it. Then layer the rest of the gnocchi and sauce on top, followed by the remaining cheese.
7. Bake:
Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top.
8. Rest and Garnish:
Once out of the oven, let the bake rest for about 5 minutes. This will help it set a little. Before serving, top it off with freshly chopped herbs for a pop of color and flavor!
Enjoy your cheesy, comforting Gnocchi Pasta Bake!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sauce?
Absolutely! While marinara is traditional, feel free to experiment with other sauces like Alfredo or pesto. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change, so choose one that you love!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm them gently in the microwave or bake in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through.
Can I Make This Bake Vegetarian?
Yes! This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra nutrition and flavor.
What Can I Serve with Gnocchi Pasta Bake?
This dish pairs beautifully with a simple green salad or garlic bread. You could also serve it with roasted vegetables for a hearty meal! Enjoy!
