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RECIPES

Baked Gnocchi with Tomato Sauce and Mozzarella

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Baked Gnocchi with Tomato Sauce and Mozzarella

 

 

 

 

Ingredients:

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  • For the Gnocchi:
    • 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
    • 1 tablespoon olive oil
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • For the Tomato Sauce:
    • 2 tablespoons olive oil
    • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
    • 3 cloves garlic, minced
    • 1 can (14.5 oz/400 g) crushed tomatoes
    • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
    • 1 teaspoon dried basil
    • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for a bit of heat)
    • Salt and pepper, to taste
    • 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance the acidity)
    • Fresh basil leaves, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
  • For the Assembly:
    • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
    • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
    • Freshly ground black pepper, for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Prepare the Tomato Sauce:
    • In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
    • Add the chopped onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, about 5-7 minutes.
    • Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant.
    • Stir in the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper.
    • Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. If the sauce is too acidic, you can add a teaspoon of sugar to balance it out.
    • Stir in the fresh basil leaves just before removing the sauce from the heat.
  2. Cook the Gnocchi:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
    • Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, usually until they float to the surface, which takes about 2-3 minutes.
    • Drain the gnocchi and toss them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil to prevent them from sticking together. Season lightly with salt and pepper.
  3. Assemble the Dish:
    • Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
    • In a large baking dish or ovenproof skillet, combine the cooked gnocchi with the tomato sauce, making sure all the gnocchi are well coated.
    • Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
  4. Bake the Gnocchi:
    • Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly with golden spots.
    • If you like a more browned and crispy top, you can broil the dish for the last 2-3 minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.
  5. Garnish and Serve:
    • Remove the baked gnocchi from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes.
    • Garnish with freshly ground black pepper and extra fresh basil leaves before serving.
  6. Enjoy:
    • Serve the baked gnocchi hot, with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious sauce.

This baked gnocchi dish is comforting and full of rich flavors, making it a perfect meal for any night of the week. The combination of tender gnocchi, savory tomato sauce, and melted cheese is sure to be a hit!

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