This Gnocchi Pasta Bake is a creamy, cheesy hug on a plate! Made with soft potato gnocchi, rich sauce, and melty cheese, it’s a dish that warms your heart.
I just love how it fills the kitchen with a yummy smell while baking! It’s perfect for a cozy dinner, and let’s be real—who can resist that cheesy top? 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Gnocchi: This is the star of the dish! If you can’t find fresh or frozen gnocchi, you can use mini pasta shapes like shell or penne. Just cook them according to package directions before combining.
Cherry Tomatoes: These add sweetness and moisture. If they’re out of season, try canned diced tomatoes or halved grape tomatoes as a substitute. Roasting them before adding can boost the flavor!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or whole milk, but be aware that it may be slightly less rich. Dairy-free options like coconut cream can also work well.
Cheese: I love mozzarella for its meltiness! However, you can use provolone or fontina for a different flavor. If you need a dairy-free option, go for a plant-based cheese that melts.
Basil: Fresh basil brightens up the dish! If fresh isn’t available, you could use dried basil—about a teaspoon, but add it during the cooking step for the best flavor.
How Do I Get My Cheesy Topping Just Right?
The cheesy topping is what makes this bake so special! To ensure it becomes golden and bubbly, follow these steps:
- Use a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan for flavor and texture.
- Make sure to cover the entire surface with cheese to shield the sauce from overcooking.
- If it isn’t browning nicely, you can switch on the broiler for the last 1-2 minutes of baking. Just watch closely to avoid burning!
With these tips, your Gnocchi Pasta Bake will be a cheesy masterpiece that everyone loves! Enjoy!
Gnocchi Pasta Bake
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Gnocchi Pasta Bake takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes of baking time. So, in just about 30 minutes, you’ll have a comforting dish ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This ensures that your dish is hot and ready for baking once you assemble it.
2. Cook the Garlic:
In an ovenproof skillet or baking dish, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it becomes fragrant. This step adds a wonderful aroma and flavor to your bake!
3. Sauté the Tomatoes:
Now, add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they begin to blister and soften. This helps to release their juicy goodness.
4. Combine Gnocchi:
Next, add the uncooked potato gnocchi to the pan, gently stirring to mix with the garlic and tomatoes. Make sure the gnocchi is well distributed in the mixture.
5. Add Cream and Season:
Pour the heavy cream over the gnocchi and tomatoes. Sprinkle in some salt and freshly ground black pepper, then stir everything together until well combined.
6. Cheese it Up:
Now for the best part! Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top of your mixture. This is going to create that glorious cheesy crust!
7. Bake Away:
Transfer your skillet or baking dish to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Look for the cheese to be melted, bubbly, and a lovely golden brown color.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Once done, remove it from the oven and let it cool slightly. This helps prevent burns and allows the dish to set a bit.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Finally, garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving. This not only adds flavor but also makes your Gnocchi Pasta Bake look even more appealing!
Enjoy your creamy, cheesy Gnocchi Pasta Bake with juicy tomatoes and fragrant basil! It’s sure to be a hit!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Absolutely! You can use frozen gnocchi directly. There’s no need to thaw them; just add them to the skillet as instructed and cook for a couple of extra minutes if needed.
Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can assemble the Gnocchi Pasta Bake in advance! Just cover it well and refrigerate. When you’re ready to bake, allow it to sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes and then bake as directed.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so in the oven for a few minutes at 350°F (175°C) for best results, or microwave until warmed through.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Yes! This dish is quite versatile. You can add spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. Just sauté them with the garlic before adding the tomatoes.
