Easy Cheesy Baked Gnocchi

To truly appreciate the Cheesy Baked Gnocchi Delight, it’s essential to understand gnocchi itself. Gnocchi are soft dumplings that have been a part of Italian culinary tradition for centuries. While the exact origins of gnocchi are debated, they are believed to date back to Roman times, with variations appearing throughout Italy. The name “gnocchi” is derived from the Italian word "nocca," meaning "knuckle," which may refer to the shape of the dumplings or the way they are often formed by hand.

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Cheesy Baked Gnocchi Delight, an easy Italian classic that's perfect for cozy nights or gatherings. This dish features tender potato gnocchi enveloped in a delectable mix of ricotta, mozzarella, and Parmesan cheese, all baked to golden perfection. Simple ingredients come together to create a satisfying meal that’s both gourmet and homey. Discover the joy of cooking with this delightful recipe and impress your family and friends!

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Ingredients

1 pound (450g) potato gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)

2 cups marinara sauce (homemade or jarred)

1 cup ricotta cheese

1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

1 cup grated Parmesan cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh basil leaves for garnish (optional)

2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions

Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) and grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil or cooking spray.

Cook the Gnocchi: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top (about 2-3 minutes for fresh gnocchi). Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce Mixture: In a large mixing bowl, combine the marinara sauce, ricotta cheese, garlic powder, onion powder, dried Italian herbs, and half of the Parmesan cheese. Mix well until everything is thoroughly combined. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the sauce mixture until all the gnocchi are well coated.

Assemble the Dish: Pour the gnocchi and sauce mixture into the prepared baking dish. Spread it evenly across the dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and the remaining Parmesan cheese.

Bake: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.

Garnish and Serve: Once baked, remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired. Serve warm and enjoy!

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes | Servings: 4-6