Name: Easy Gnocchi and Tomato Bake
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade); 2 cups marinara or crushed tomato sauce; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 1 small onion (finely chopped); 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning; ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional); Salt and black pepper to taste; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese; Fresh basil leaves for garnish; 1 cup cooked ground chicken or turkey; 1 cup chopped spinach or zucchini

Description

Easy Gnocchi and Tomato Bake is a comforting Italian-inspired dish that comes together in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This delicious recipe features tender gnocchi enveloped in a rich marinara sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. It’s easily customizable, allowing you to add your favorite proteins or vegetables for a unique twist. With just 10 minutes of prep and 30 minutes of baking, you’ll have a delightful meal that pleases both kids and adults alike. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or crusty bread for a complete dining experience.

Ingredients

Scale

1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups marinara or crushed tomato sauce
3 cloves garlic (minced)
1 small onion (finely chopped)
2 tbsp olive oil
1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
1 cup cooked ground chicken or turkey
1 cup chopped spinach or zucchini

Instructions

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the onion until translucent. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
Stir in marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper; let simmer for about 5 minutes.
Combine the cooked gnocchi with the sauce in a large bowl, adding any optional proteins or vegetables.
Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
Bake for about 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let cool slightly before garnishing with fresh basil and serving.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Category: Main
Method: Baking
Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 serving
Calories: 390
Sugar: 6g
Sodium: 680mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 44g
Fiber: 3g
Protein: 15g
Cholesterol: 30mg

Keywords: For extra flavor, use high-quality marinara sauce. Customize by adding seasonal veggies like spinach or zucchini. Allow the bake to rest for a few minutes before serving for easier slicing.