This simple, fast, and delicious baked gnocchi is perfect for a cozy solo meal or a quick dinner treat. With minimal ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you can enjoy a comforting dish that bursts with flavor.
Overview
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Servings: 1 serving
Ingredients
- 4 ounces shelf-stable gnocchi
- ⅓ cup pasta sauce
- ¼ cup shredded mozzarella cheese (or to taste)
Directions
- Cook the Gnocchi:
- Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a boil.
- Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the top, about 3 minutes.
- Drain the gnocchi well.
- Preheat the Oven:
- Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
- Assemble the Dish:
- Spread half of the pasta sauce evenly on the bottom of a 5-inch round casserole dish.
- Arrange the cooked gnocchi in a single layer on top of the sauce.
- Pour the remaining pasta sauce over the gnocchi and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly on top.
- Bake:
- Place the casserole dish in the preheated oven.
- Bake until the cheese is melted and bubbling, about 25 minutes.
Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- Calories: 304
- Fat: 15g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Protein: 11g
Conclusion
This baked gnocchi recipe offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors—a tender pasta base, rich sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella come together to create a comforting meal. Whether you’re cooking for one or looking for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings. Enjoy every bite and feel free to experiment with your favorite ingredients!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can assemble the dish in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to eat, simply bake it as directed. (If baking from cold, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.)
Q: Can I substitute the mozzarella cheese?
A: Absolutely. Feel free to try other cheeses such as cheddar, provolone, or Parmesan to customize the flavor.
Q: What kind of gnocchi should I use?
A: The recipe calls for shelf-stable gnocchi, which are convenient and readily available. You can also use fresh or frozen gnocchi, just adjust the cooking time if necessary.
Q: Is it possible to scale this recipe up?
A: Yes, you can easily double or triple the ingredients for more servings. Make sure to use an appropriately sized baking dish and adjust the baking time as needed.
Q: How do I know when the gnocchi are properly cooked in water?
A: The gnocchi are done when they float to the surface of the boiling water, which should take about 3 minutes.
Enjoy your baked gnocchi, and happy cooking!