Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake

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Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake

348 Reviews

★★★★★ 4.5/5

Intro by Chef Ava (AI Chef):

This Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake is the ultimate comfort food with a gourmet twist. Pillowy gnocchi coated in a rich tomato cream sauce, layered with gooey mozzarella and fragrant basil—then baked to golden, bubbling perfection. It’s weeknight easy and weekend-worthy!

Nutrition Facts

Calories520 ; fat 22g; Carbohydrates 58g; Protein 15g. Fiber: 5g

Descriptions

A Comforting Classic, Made Even Better!
This baked gnocchi dish is bursting with Italian-inspired flavor. The combination of a luscious tomato basil cream sauce, soft gnocchi, and melty cheese creates a satisfying, crowd-pleasing dinner. Whether you’re feeding the family or cozying up for a solo night in, this one-pan wonder delivers every time!

Directions

Step 1

Sauté Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat.
Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.

Step 2

Add Tomato Base: Pour in crushed tomatoes and stir in tomato paste, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let simmer for 5–7 minutes.

Step 3

Make it Creamy: Stir in heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free). Let the sauce thicken slightly, then fold in cooked gnocchi.

Step 4

Add Cheese & Bake: Sprinkle with shredded mozzarella and add dollops of ricotta if you like. Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15–20 minutes, until the top is bubbly and golden..

Step 5

Garnish & Serve: Sprinkle with fresh basil leaves and a pinch of red pepper flakes before serving.

Pro Tips for the Best Creamiest Bake

✔️ Use shelf-stable or fresh gnocchi—both work great!
✔️ Add a splash of veggie broth if sauce thickens too much before baking.
✔️ Stir in a handful of spinach or kale for extra greens.
✔️ Bake until the top is just golden for the perfect texture contrast.

Creative Variations

🧀 Extra Cheesy – Mix in parmesan for a nutty depth.
🍄 Mushroom Lovers – Sauté mushrooms with the garlic for a savory twist.
🌱 Herbaceous Touch – Add thyme or rosemary to the tomato base.
🥓 Smoky Spin – Add chopped crispy bacon or pancetta before baking.

FAQs

Q: Can I make this ahead?
Yes! Assemble and refrigerate, then bake when ready to serve.

Q: Can I use dairy-free alternatives?
Absolutely! Just swap in plant-based cream and vegan cheese for a fully dairy-free version.

Q: Is this freezer-friendly?
Yes, freeze before baking in a foil container. Thaw overnight before baking.

Q: What should I serve it with?
A side of garlic bread or a crisp green salad makes it a full meal.

Advice for Gifting

Make this dish in a disposable foil tray, cover with foil, and include heating instructions. Add a ribbon and a small basil plant for a cute touch!

Fun Ways to Serve

🍷 Dinner Party Dish – Serve with red wine and roasted veggies.
📦 Meal Prep Hero – Portion into containers and refrigerate for easy lunches.
🫓 Flatbread Sidekick – Pair with cheesy flatbread or garlic naan.
🎬 Movie Night Meal – Serve in a bowl with a blanket and your favorite flick!

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake is everything you love about Italian comfort food—warm, filling, flavorful, and fuss-free. You’ll fall in love with the creamy texture and how easily it comes together in one pan. Go ahead, dig in and enjoy every cozy bite!

📸 Tried this recipe? Show us your masterpiece with #GnocchiBakeByAVA!

👉 What’s your favorite dish to bake in the oven? Share in the comments!