Soft potato gnocchi baked in a rich marinara cream sauce with gooey mozzarella — this dish is pure comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends. The combination of pillowy gnocchi, a luscious creamy tomato sauce, and melty cheese makes it irresistible.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Comfort food at its finest — warm, cheesy, and hearty.

• Quick to make — ready in under 30 minutes.

• Minimal cleanup — cooked and baked in the same oven-safe skillet.

• Versatile — easy to customize with vegetables or proteins.

Ingredients

• 2 lbs potato gnocchi

• 16 oz marinara sauce

• 2 garlic cloves, minced

• ½ cup baby mozzarella balls or mozzarella pearls

• ⅓ cup heavy cream

• ½ cup reserved pasta cooking water

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• ¼ cup fresh basil, chopped

• 1 tbsp olive oil or unsalted butter

• Kosher salt, to taste

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings

Step-by-Step Directions

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Bring salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi for 3–4 minutes until they float. Reserve ½ cup pasta cooking water and drain.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic
Heat olive oil or butter in an oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Make the Sauce
Stir in marinara sauce, fresh basil, and Parmesan. Let simmer gently for a couple of minutes.

Step 4: Add Cream & Gnocchi
Remove from heat. Stir in heavy cream, gnocchi, and the reserved pasta water. Toss to coat evenly.

Step 5: Add Cheese & Broil
Scatter mozzarella balls and extra Parmesan on top. Broil on high for 2–3 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.

Step 6: Serve
Remove from oven, garnish with extra basil if desired, and serve hot.

Tips & Variations

• Make it meaty — add cooked Italian sausage or shredded chicken.

• Boost the veggies — stir in spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

• Extra creamy — swap marinara for a tomato cream sauce.

• Cheese swap — try provolone or fontina for a different flavor profile.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes — refrigerated or shelf-stable gnocchi works well in this recipe.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

You can assemble it up to Step 4, refrigerate, and then bake when ready to serve.

What’s the best way to reheat leftovers?

Reheat in a 350°F oven, covered with foil, for 10–15 minutes, or warm in a skillet with a splash of cream.

Final Thoughts

Creamy Baked Gnocchi is a warm hug in a skillet — rich, cheesy, and satisfying. Whether you’re making it for a quick dinner or as part of a weekend feast, it’s guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser.