Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love making Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of tender gnocchi, fresh spinach, and rich tomato sauce creates a comforting dish that never fails to impress. I relish the ease of preparation and how quickly it comes together. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens while savoring every bite of this delicious pasta bake.
When I first attempted Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi, I was blown away by how all the flavors blended together beautifully. The freshness of the spinach paired with the vibrant tomato sauce creates a mouthwatering aroma that fills the kitchen. The key for me is using high-quality canned tomatoes; it makes a world of difference in flavor.
Every time I make this dish, I experiment a little—sometimes adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper for heat or a handful of cheese for creaminess. The versatility of this recipe allows me to customize it based on what I have at home, making it a go-to for busy weeknights.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Filling and hearty, perfect for a weeknight meal
- Simple ingredients come together for a gourmet experience
- Easily customizable with your favorite veggies or proteins
Ingredients
Gnocchi
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Mix and match your favorite ingredients for a personalized touch!
Instructions
Preheat the oven
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
Cook the gnocchi
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float. Drain and set aside.
Make the sauce
In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
Combine ingredients
In a baking dish, combine the cooked gnocchi and spinach. Pour the sauce over and mix well.
Add cheese and bake
Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Pro Tips
- Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used. Just add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.
→ How can I make it gluten-free?
Look for gluten-free gnocchi options made from potato or rice flour.
→ Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish and store it in the fridge before baking. Just adjust the baking time if it's cold.
→ What can I serve with this dish?
A simple green salad or garlic bread pairs wonderfully with Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi.
Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi
I absolutely love making Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi for a cozy dinner at home. The combination of tender gnocchi, fresh spinach, and rich tomato sauce creates a comforting dish that never fails to impress. I relish the ease of preparation and how quickly it comes together. It’s a delightful way to enjoy a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a great way to sneak in some greens while savoring every bite of this delicious pasta bake.
Created by: Harriet Collins
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Beginner
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Gnocchi
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
Sauce
- 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
Toppings
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
How-To Steps
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float. Drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
In a baking dish, combine the cooked gnocchi and spinach. Pour the sauce over and mix well.
Top with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan. Bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Extra Tips
- Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 9g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 550mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 56g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 12g