Are you tired of the same old pasta dishes? Look no further! Baked gnocchi is a game-changer, and when combined with creamy sauces and flavorful toppings, it’s a match made in heaven. In this article, we’ll explore 18 deliciously creamy baked gnocchi recipes that are sure to become new favorites.
From classic comfort food combinations like cheesy spinach and mozzarella to more adventurous pairings like sausage and peppers or shrimp and garlic butter, there’s something for everyone in this collection. And the best part? These recipes are all incredibly easy to make and require minimal prep work.
In this article, we’ll dive into each of these tasty recipes, exploring the ingredients, cooking methods, and presentation tips you need to know to bring them to life in your own kitchen. Whether you’re a busy home cook or a culinary enthusiast, you won’t want to miss these creamy baked gnocchi recipes.
Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Spinach and Mozzarella
This comforting recipe combines soft gnocchi, wilted spinach, and melted mozzarella cheese for a satisfying side dish or main course. Perfect for a cozy night in!
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gnocchi
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions, then set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add spinach leaves and cook until wilted, about 3-4 minutes.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked gnocchi, wilted spinach, and shredded mozzarella cheese. Mix well.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with grated Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Gnocchi with Tomato Basil Sauce
A classic Italian comfort food, baked gnocchi are a delicious twist on traditional pan-fried gnocchi. This recipe combines the tender, pillowy pasta with a rich and flavorful tomato basil sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gnocchi
– 2 cups of cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup of olive oil
– 4 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup of fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the gnocchi on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer.
4. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
6. While the gnocchi is baking, heat the cherry tomatoes, garlic, and basil leaves in a saucepan over medium heat.
7. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
8. Serve the baked gnocchi with the tomato basil sauce and top with grated Parmesan cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Garlic Parmesan Baked Gnocchi
Elevate your pasta game with this rich and flavorful baked gnocchi recipe, perfect for a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of store-bought or homemade gnocchi (about 12 oz)
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup of heavy cream
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp of dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground nutmeg (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until slightly tender. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes or until fragrant.
4. In a separate bowl, whisk together heavy cream, Parmesan cheese, parsley, salt, pepper, and nutmeg (if using).
5. In the skillet with garlic, add the cooked gnocchi and pour in the creamy sauce. Toss gently to combine.
6. Transfer the gnocchi mixture to a baking dish and top with additional grated Parmesan cheese.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the sauce is bubbly.
8. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers
Elevate a weeknight dinner with this hearty, one-pot dish that combines tender gnocchi with spicy sausage and sweet bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package of gnocchi
– 1 lb sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
– 2 large bell peppers, any color, sliced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook sausage over medium-high heat, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Add peppers, onion, garlic, and oregano to the skillet; cook, stirring occasionally, until vegetables are tender, about 10 minutes.
5. In a large bowl, combine cooked gnocchi, sausage mixture, and Parmesan cheese (if using). Mix well.
6. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the gnocchi is tender and the top is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Baked Gnocchi
Transform traditional gnocchi into a creamy, spinach-filled delight with this easy-to-make recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 package store-bought gnocchi (about 12 oz)
– 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
– 8 oz ricotta cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 egg
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a mixing bowl, combine spinach leaves, ricotta cheese, Parmesan cheese, and egg. Mix well until smooth.
4. Stuff each cooked gnocchi with the spinach-ricotta mixture, about 1/4 teaspoon per piece.
5. Place stuffed gnocchi on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Baked Gnocchi Alfredo with Broccoli
Baked Gnocchi Alfredo with Broccoli Recipe
Baked Gnocchi with Pesto and Cherry Tomatoes
Elevate your pasta game with this simple yet flavorful recipe, where tender gnocchi meet the creaminess of pesto and the sweetness of cherry tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen gnocchi
– 1/2 cup pesto
– 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions or if using frozen, thaw and cook in boiling water for 3-5 minutes. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large bowl, mix together pesto and olive oil.
4. Add the cooked gnocchi to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the pesto mixture.
5. Transfer the gnocchi mixture to a baking dish and top with cherry tomatoes.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted (if using) and the tomatoes are tender.
8. Serve hot, garnished with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Three-Cheese Baked Gnocchi Casserole
A creamy, cheesy casserole that combines the comfort of gnocchi with a rich three-cheese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package gnocchi (12 oz)
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large mixing bowl, combine marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, feta cheese, and parsley. Mix well.
4. In a greased 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked gnocchi in an even layer.
5. Pour half of the cheese sauce over the gnocchi, followed by the remaining gnocchi and the rest of the cheese sauce.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
7. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Baked Gnocchi with Mushroom Cream Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this comforting and creamy dish, featuring baked gnocchi smothered in a rich mushroom cream sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. Place the gnocchi on the prepared baking sheet in a single layer. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with salt. Toss to combine.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until golden brown.
4. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and mushrooms over medium-high heat until the vegetables are tender. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. To serve, place baked gnocchi on a plate and top with mushroom cream sauce. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Gnocchi Primavera with Seasonal Vegetables
Savor the flavors of springtime with this vibrant and nutritious baked gnocchi dish, loaded with a colorful medley of seasonal vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of fresh or frozen gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed spring vegetables (such as asparagus, bell peppers, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes)
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
5. Add mixed spring vegetables and cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
6. In a large bowl, combine cooked gnocchi, vegetable mixture, and grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the top is lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Gnocchi with Spicy Arrabbiata Sauce
A classic Italian recipe gets a bold twist with this spicy and savory combination. Baked gnocchi are infused with the fiery flavors of arrabbiata sauce, perfect for those who crave a little heat in their pasta.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of potato gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1/4 cup arrabbiata sauce
– 1 teaspoon dried basil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss gnocchi with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until golden brown.
4. While gnocchi is baking, sauté onion and garlic in a pan until softened.
5. Add crushed tomatoes, arrabbiata sauce, and basil to the pan. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
6. Combine cooked gnocchi with the spicy arrabbiata sauce. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Gnocchi with Chicken and Sun-Dried Tomatoes
Savor the flavors of Italy with this easy-to-make baked gnocchi dish, featuring tender chicken and sweet sun-dried tomatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of gnocchi (about 12-14 pieces)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, packed in oil and drained
– 1 tsp dried basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chicken, onion, garlic, salt, and pepper. Cook until chicken is cooked through and onions are translucent.
4. Stir in sun-dried tomatoes and basil. Set mixture aside.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, arrange cooked gnocchi in a single layer. Top with chicken-sun-dried tomato mixture and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
6. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Gnocchi with Butternut Squash and Sage
This fall-inspired dish combines the comforting warmth of baked gnocchi with the sweetness of roasted butternut squash, finished with a hint of earthy sage. Perfect for a cozy dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound baked gnocchi
– 1 medium butternut squash (about 2 pounds), peeled and cubed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh sage
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss the butternut squash cubes with olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast for 25-30 minutes, or until tender.
3. In a large bowl, combine the baked gnocchi, roasted squash, Parmesan cheese, and chopped sage. Toss to combine.
4. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Baked Gnocchi with Shrimp and Garlic Butter Sauce
Elevate your pasta game with this easy-to-make, flavorful dish that combines the comfort of baked gnocchi with the decadence of garlic butter sauce and succulent shrimp.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of frozen gnocchi
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, melt butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. In a separate bowl, combine cooked gnocchi, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
6. Add the cooked shrimp mixture to the gnocchi mixture and stir to combine.
7. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake for 15-20 minutes or until heated through.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Baked Gnocchi with Roasted Red Pepper Sauce
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of baked gnocchi with the sweet and smoky flavor of roasted red peppers.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound potato gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Toss gnocchi with olive oil, salt, and pepper on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Roast red bell pepper in the oven for 30-40 minutes, or until charred and blistered.
5. Remove peppers from the oven and let cool. Peel off skin, discarding it, and chop into small pieces.
6. In a large skillet, sauté garlic and roasted red pepper with a pinch of salt until fragrant.
7. Combine cooked gnocchi and red pepper sauce in a serving dish. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Baked Gnocchi with Zucchini and Parmesan
A simple yet flavorful Italian-inspired recipe that combines tender gnocchi, sweet zucchini, and nutty Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of store-bought or homemade gnocchi
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add zucchini slices and cook for 3-4 minutes or until tender.
4. In a separate bowl, combine cooked gnocchi and zucchini.
5. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Baked Gnocchi with Caramelized Onions and Gorgonzola
Elevate your pasta game with this creamy, caramel-filled dish that combines the simplicity of baked gnocchi with the richness of gorgonzola and sweet onions.
Ingredients:
– 1 package of fresh or frozen gnocchi
– 2 large onions, thinly sliced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated gorgonzola cheese
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Toss gnocchi with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet.
3. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
4. While the gnocchi is baking, caramelize the onions in a pan over medium heat for 30-40 minutes or until golden brown.
5. In a separate bowl, mix gorgonzola and Parmesan cheese.
6. Remove the gnocchi from the oven and top with caramelized onions and cheese mixture.
7. Return to the oven for an additional 2-3 minutes or until cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Baked Gnocchi with Crispy Bacon and Peas
A twist on traditional gnocchi, this recipe adds crispy bacon and sweet peas to create a flavorful and satisfying side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 (14.4 oz) package of potato gnocchi
– 6 slices of bacon, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove from heat and set aside.
4. Add the olive oil, peas, and Parmesan cheese to the same skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the peas are tender.
5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, crispy bacon, and pea mixture. Toss to combine.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Indulge in the comfort food of creamy baked gnocchi with these 18 mouth-watering recipes. From classic combinations like cheesy spinach and mozzarella to bold flavors like spicy arrabbiata sauce, there’s something for everyone. Discover how to pair gnocchi with sausage and peppers, or elevate it with shrimp and garlic butter sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting casserole or a light and fresh primavera, these recipes will inspire you to get creative with your favorite pasta dish. Get ready to dig in and enjoy!
