Ready in: 1 hour · Serves: 6 · Technique: Baking · Storage: Refrigerate for up to 3 days.Quick Answer
This Gnocchi and Tomato Bake is a comforting, cheesy dish perfect for gatherings, made by combining cooked gnocchi with savory tomato sauce, topped with melted cheese, and baked until bubbly.Ah, there's something undeniably comforting about a warm, cheesy bake, especially as the weather gets cooler in New York City. As the leaves turn golden and the aroma of spices fills the air, I find myself dreaming of dishes that bring warmth to the table-perfect for gathering with friends and family during Thanksgiving and Christmas celebrations. Today, I'm delighted to share my take on a delightful Gnocchi and Tomato Bake.
A Cozy Holiday Treat
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- It's a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings, bringing warmth and coziness to your table.
- Simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for busy holiday weeks and gatherings.
- Customizable with seasonal vegetables, allowing you to add extra nutrition and variety.
- The combination of gooey cheese and rich tomato sauce creates an irresistible flavor that everyone will love.
- Leftovers reheat beautifully, ensuring you can enjoy this delicious meal for days to come.
Ingredients
Here are the ingredients you'll need for a delicious Gnocchi and Tomato Bake:
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, grated
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
How to Make Gnocchi and Tomato Bake (Step-by-Step)
Follow these simple steps to create a warm and cheesy Gnocchi and Tomato Bake:
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
As I preheat mine to 400°F, I can already sense the aromas that will soon fill my tiny kitchen.
Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi
In a large pot of salted boiling water, add your gnocchi, cooking them according to package instructions until they float to the top. It's always a satisfying moment-like watching little pillows bobbing happily in the bubbling water. Drain them and set aside.
Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle the olive oil. Add the diced onion, and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5 minutes. The fragrant smell wafting through the room is just wonderful. Stir in the minced garlic, and cook for an additional 30 seconds until you can smell its pungent aroma.
Step 4: Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, followed by oregano, basil, and a good pinch of salt and pepper. Let the mixture simmer for about 10 minutes-this is where the flavors meld into something magical.
Step 5: Combine
Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the skillet, ensuring they're evenly coated with the tomato sauce. Spread the mixture evenly into a greased 9x13 baking dish.
Step 6: Cheesy Topping
Sprinkle the grated mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the top. Who doesn't love a gooey, cheesy crust?
Step 7: Bake It!
Slide your baking dish into the preheated oven and bake for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. When you pull it out, the intoxicating scent of melted cheese and simmered tomatoes fills the air, making it nearly impossible to wait.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Top with fresh basil if desired. The contrast of the vibrant green against the cheesy, golden bake is simply beautiful.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the gnocchi; aim for them to be just tender when draining.
- Skipping the seasoning; be generous with salt and pepper for enhanced flavor.
- Not allowing the sauce to simmer; this step is key for deepening flavors.
Tips and Tricks for Success
- Use high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer flavor.
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes when sautéing onions for a spicy kick.
- Include seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for added nutrition.
Variations
- Substitute gnocchi with pasta for a different texture.
- Use different types of cheese, such as fontina or cheddar, for varying flavor.
- Add cooked ground meat or sausage for a protein boost.
How to Serve
- Pair with a simple green salad for a balanced meal.
- Serve with crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
- Top with a dollop of ricotta for extra creaminess.
Make Ahead and Storage
- Make Ahead: Prepare the dish up to the assembly stage and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.
- Storage: Let leftovers cool completely before transferring to an air-tight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Reheating: Reheat in the oven at 350°F for the best texture and flavor.
- Freezing: This dish can be frozen before or after baking for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Recipe Notes / What I Learned
The beauty of this dish lies in its simplicity and heartiness; it's like a warm hug on a chilly day. I love that it suits the spirit of family gatherings, making it a perfect fit for holiday feasts. Plus, it's so easy to prepare-ideal for those busy holiday weeks!
Yield and Serving Size
Yield: 8 servings · Serving Size: 1 cup
Nutrition Snapshot
Estimated Nutrition Per Serving: ~320 calories · 12g protein · 40g carbs · 14g fat
Recipe by:
Comforting Gnocchi and Tomato Bake
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float. Drain and set aside.
- In a large skillet over medium heat, drizzle the olive oil. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
- Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
- Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the skillet, then spread the mixture into a greased 9x13 baking dish.
- Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese generously over the top.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 to 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
- Top with fresh basil if desired and serve.
Notes
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi can add a personal touch to the dish and elevate its flavor.
2. What can I substitute for mozzarella cheese?
If you're looking for a substitute, you can use provolone or fontina cheese for a different flavor profile.
3. Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, this recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure that any cheese used is rennet-free if you're adhering to a strict vegetarian diet.
4. Can I freeze the gnocchi and tomato bake?
Yes, you can freeze the bake before or after cooking. Just ensure to cover it well to prevent freezer burn.
5. How do I reheat leftovers?
The best way to reheat leftovers is to place them in the oven at 350°F until warmed through. This will help maintain the cheese's texture.
