Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
I absolutely love this Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi because it brings together comforting textures and vibrant flavors in a single dish. The combination of fluffy gnocchi, sautéed spinach, and tangy tomatoes baked to perfection creates a meal that warms the soul. It's perfect for weeknight dinners or when I have guests over. I've even made it a few times as a delightful Sunday brunch option. It’s a dish that draws everyone to the table, and I love how simple yet satisfying it is to prepare.
When I first experimented with this Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi, I wanted to create a dish combining my love for creamy pasta with the fresh flavors of summertime tomatoes. I found that baking the gnocchi allowed the flavors to meld beautifully, and the cheese creates a lovely crust on top, adding an irresistible texture.
One key to success here is to make sure your gnocchi is cooked just until tender before baking, as they'll continue to soften in the oven. Using fresh spinach adds vibrant color and nutrients, but frozen works just as well in a pinch!
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- Hearty gnocchi topped with a burst of tomato flavor
- Creamy spinach that elevates the dish to new heights
- Simple preparation that impresses with every bite
The Heart of Gnocchi
Gnocchi serves as the foundation of this dish, and using fresh or quality packaged gnocchi can greatly enhance the texture. Fresh gnocchi tends to be softer and more pillowy, while dried gnocchi can provide a bit more bite. If you choose to make homemade gnocchi, consider adding a pinch of nutmeg to the dough for a subtle depth of flavor that complements the tomatoes beautifully.
When cooking gnocchi, be mindful of the timing. They will only take about 2-4 minutes to cook after they are added to boiling water. Watch for them to float, as this indicates they are ready. Overcooking can lead to mushy gnocchi, ruining the dish's texture. Once done, promptly drain and toss them with a small amount of olive oil to prevent sticking.
Elevating the Spinach and Tomato Base
This recipe shines with the combination of sautéed spinach and diced tomatoes, which balances the richness of the cheeses. Ensure that you cook the spinach just long enough to wilt it—this keeps its vibrant color and nutrients. If you prefer a more robust spinach flavor, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.
The quality of diced tomatoes can also make a difference in the final taste. Opt for fire-roasted diced tomatoes if you want to add a slightly smoky depth to the dish. Additionally, don't shy away from experimenting with different types of canned tomatoes, like San Marzano, which are known for their sweetness and low acidity.
Ingredients
Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi Ingredients
- 16 oz gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Instructions
How to Make Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi
Prepare the Gnocchi
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float, then drain and set aside.
Saute Spinach and Garlic
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, sautéed spinach, and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Bake
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serve
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi!
Pro Tips
- For added flavor, consider tossing in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini before baking. You can also sprinkle fresh basil on top right before serving for an aromatic touch.
Serving Suggestions
To serve your Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi, consider a bright side salad dressed in a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheese. A simple arugula salad with lemon dressing can provide a refreshing contrast, making it an excellent complement to the meal.
Another delightful addition could be garlic bread or warm, crusty rolls to mop up any leftover sauce in the dish. This transforms a simple dinner into a comforting family meal or an appealing option for gatherings.
Make-Ahead Tips
For a convenient weeknight dinner, you can prepare the components of this dish ahead of time. Cook and store the gnocchi separately, and sauté the spinach with garlic in advance. Store in airtight containers in the fridge and combine everything the night you wish to bake. This allows for seamless assembly and a quicker cooking process.
If you want to assemble the entire dish ahead of time, allow it to cool completely before covering it with foil and refrigerating. Just remember to add a few extra minutes to the baking time if you're baking it cold straight from the fridge to ensure it heats through evenly.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi work perfectly fine! Just cook them as directed on the package.
→ What can I substitute for Parmesan cheese?
You can use Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a vegan option.
→ How long does this dish last in the fridge?
It can be stored in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the dish up to the baking step, refrigerate, and then bake when you're ready to serve.
Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi
I absolutely love this Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi because it brings together comforting textures and vibrant flavors in a single dish. The combination of fluffy gnocchi, sautéed spinach, and tangy tomatoes baked to perfection creates a meal that warms the soul. It's perfect for weeknight dinners or when I have guests over. I've even made it a few times as a delightful Sunday brunch option. It’s a dish that draws everyone to the table, and I love how simple yet satisfying it is to prepare.
Created by: Amelia Grant
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Easy
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi Ingredients
- 16 oz gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
How-To Steps
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float, then drain and set aside.
In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Stir in the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, sautéed spinach, and diced tomatoes (with their juice). Mix well to ensure everything is evenly coated.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your delicious Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi!
Extra Tips
- For added flavor, consider tossing in other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini before baking. You can also sprinkle fresh basil on top right before serving for an aromatic touch.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 400 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 40mg
- Sodium: 560mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 52g
- Dietary Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 6g
- Protein: 12g