Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake

Name: Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound gnocchi; 2 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Cozy Inspiration

When I think of comfort food, the first thing that comes to mind is this Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake. I stumbled upon this recipe during a cozy Sunday afternoon, and it has become a weekly tradition ever since. The tender gnocchi dances in a sea of rich tomato sauce, topped with gooey mozzarella cheese and fragrant basil. It’s the perfect dish to unwind with after a long week, and it fills the home with the delightful aroma of Italian herbs. Trust me, this will become your go-to recipe for laid-back Sundays.

Created by

Isadora Pembroke

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:53:34.232Z

I remember the first time I made this Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake; I was beyond impressed with how quickly it came together. The combination of fresh basil and rich tomato sauce makes every bite a burst of flavor. I realized that opting for store-bought gnocchi saved me time without sacrificing taste, allowing me to enjoy more moments with loved ones while dinner cooked in the oven.

One tip I have discovered through multiple attempts is to slightly underbake the gnocchi and cheese mixture to retain a delightful texture. This way, the gnocchi remains pillowy, and the cheese becomes irresistibly melty, making for a scrumptious finish. It’s a perfect recipe to share during family gatherings!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich, flavorful tomato sauce with a hint of fresh basil
Easy to prepare and bake, perfect for busy Sundays
Comforting, cheesy goodness in every bite

The Role of Gnocchi

Gnocchi is the star ingredient in this dish, providing a delightful texture that complements the rich tomato sauce. When cooked properly, gnocchi should be light and fluffy, not dense or gummy. When you add the gnocchi to boiling salted water, watch closely—it's done when it floats, which usually takes just 2-3 minutes. This quick cooking time is essential to maintain that perfect texture, so avoid overcooking, as it can lead to mushy gnocchi that won't hold up in the bake.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider making your own gnocchi from scratch using potatoes and flour. Homemade gnocchi tends to have a fresher taste and a more delicate texture, which can elevate this bake even further. Just remember to handle the dough gently to keep it airy. However, store-bought gnocchi is a convenient option that saves time, especially for those busy Sundays.

Enhancing the Tomato Sauce

The marinara sauce is fundamental to this dish, so choosing a high-quality sauce can make a significant difference in flavor. Look for sauces that are made with San Marzano tomatoes or those that emphasize freshness with little added sugar or preservatives. If you want to elevate the flavor further, consider sautéing some minced garlic and onions in olive oil before adding the marinara—it adds depth and richness.

For a twist on the classic recipe, try adding sautéed vegetables such as spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers to the tomato sauce. Not only will this introduce added nutrients, but it will also provide a delightful contrast in texture. Just be sure to cook the vegetables first to avoid excess moisture, which could make the bake watery.

Serving and Storage Tips

After baking, allow the gnocchi bake to rest for about 5-10 minutes before serving. This resting period helps to set the layers, making it easier to slice and serve. For an extra touch of flavor, consider drizzling with a bit of good extra virgin olive oil just before serving or sprinkling with grated Parmesan cheese or chili flakes for a kick.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheating can be done in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or in the microwave for a few minutes until warmed through. If you'd like to freeze leftovers, pack them in portions and they can be stored for up to three months. Just remember that while the taste will still be great, the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly after freezing.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 pound gnocchi
2 cups marinara sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package directions until they float, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Combine Ingredients

In a mixing bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, marinara sauce, half of the mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Bake

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with remaining mozzarella cheese, and bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven, let it cool for a few minutes, and serve warm, garnished with extra basil if desired.

Pro Tips

For an added flavor boost, you can sauté some garlic in olive oil before tossing it into the gnocchi mixture. It elevates the dish and adds depth.

Gnocchi Substitutions

For those looking to make this dish gluten-free, consider using gluten-free gnocchi, which is widely available at grocery stores. Alternatively, you could try substituting with a similar-sized pasta like rice gnocchi or even use a veggie-based option like cauliflower gnocchi, which will give a different flavor but a similar texture.

If you're aiming for a lower-carb version, spiralized zucchini can be a fun alternative. Simply sauté the zucchini noodles lightly to remove excess moisture before combining them with the sauce, ensuring you won’t end up with a watery dish.

Variations and Customizations

There are countless ways to customize your Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake. For added protein, consider including cooked ground beef, Italian sausage, or grilled chicken mixed into the gnocchi and sauce. This addition not only boosts nutrition but also enhances the dish's hearty appeal.

To experiment with flavor, consider adding a dash of red pepper flakes for heat or a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity, which can balance the sweetness of the tomato sauce beautifully. Additionally, swapping fresh basil for other herbs like oregano or thyme can impart a different character to the dish without compromising on deliciousness.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your bake turns out too watery, it could be that the marinara was too thin or excess moisture was released from vegetables. Next time, consider using a thicker sauce or sautéing vegetables longer to remove their moisture content before mixing them in with the gnocchi.

For a perfectly bubbly and golden topping, keep an eye on the bake during the last few minutes in the oven. If the cheese isn’t melting as expected, you can broil it for a couple of minutes; just be vigilant to prevent burning. This technique not only enhances the texture but also adds an irresistible caramelized flavor on top.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi will add a personal touch and can enhance the flavor.

→ What if I don't have fresh basil?

Dried basil can be a substitute, but fresh basil really brings out the best flavors.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the dish a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you're ready to serve!

→ Is this dish suitable for freezing?

Yes, it freezes well. Just make sure to cover it tightly. Thaw before baking.