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Homemade Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake photo

Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake

This Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake is a cozy, cheesy, and comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Pillowy gnocchi meets rich tomato sauce and melty cheese.
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 25 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients
  

  • 1 package gnocchi store-bought potato gnocchi
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil for sautéing aromatics
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 28 ounces crushed tomatoes canned
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • fresh basil leaves for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Large mixing bowl
  • Baking dish (8x8-inch or similar)
  • Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Oven mitts

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
  2. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, then sprinkle in dried oregano, dried basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer the sauce on low heat for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally.
  3. Slowly add the heavy cream to the tomato sauce, stirring continuously to combine. Let the sauce simmer for another 3-5 minutes until creamy and luscious.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, toss the gnocchi with the creamy tomato sauce until well coated.
  5. Transfer the gnocchi and sauce mixture into your greased baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly over the top, followed by the grated Parmesan cheese.
  6. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Bake the gnocchi for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.
  7. Remove from oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Notes

  • For a dairy-free option, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a milk and cream cheese blend.
  • Use small pasta shapes like orecchiette or mini shells if gnocchi is unavailable.
  • Let the bake rest after cooking to allow the sauce to thicken and avoid burns.
  • Shred your own mozzarella and Parmesan for better melt and flavor.
  • Freeze the unbaked assembled dish for up to 3 months; thaw overnight and bake before serving.