Baked Gnocchi with Spinach and Marinara
This baked gnocchi dish is a warm, comforting bake filled with pillowy gnocchi, rich marinara sauce, tender spinach, and melty cheese. It’s an easy, one-pan meal with minimal prep — perfect for weeknights or when you’re craving something hearty and cheesy with a Mediterranean twist.
⏱️ Time:
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Ingredients:
Main Ingredients:
1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
2 cups fresh spinach (or 1 cup frozen, thawed & squeezed)
2 cups marinara sauce (store-bought or homemade)
1 tbsp olive oil
1 clove garlic, minced
Salt and black pepper, to taste
For Baking:
¾ cup shredded mozzarella cheese
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, fresh basil or parsley
Instructions:
1. Cook the Gnocchi:
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add gnocchi and cook until they float (about 2–3 minutes).
Drain and set aside.
2. Sauté the Spinach:
In an oven-safe skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium.
Add garlic and sauté 30 seconds.
Add spinach and cook until wilted (2–3 minutes).
Season lightly with salt and pepper.
3. Assemble the Bake:
Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
Add cooked gnocchi and marinara sauce to the spinach. Stir to coat evenly.
Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
4. Bake:
Transfer skillet (or pour into a baking dish) to oven.
Bake uncovered for 15–20 minutes until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Optional: Broil for 2 minutes for a golden top.
5. Garnish and Serve:
Sprinkle with fresh basil, parsley, or a pinch of chili flakes.
Serve hot with a green salad or crusty bread.
Tips & Variations:
Add protein: Stir in cooked chicken, ground turkey, or white beans.
Make it creamy: Add ¼ cup of heavy cream or ricotta to the sauce before baking.
Use frozen gnocchi: No need to pre-cook — just bake longer, covered for the first 10 minutes.
❓ Frequently asked questions FAQ:
Q: Can I make this ahead of time?
A: Yes! Assemble the dish, cover, and refrigerate. Bake when ready (add 5 extra minutes if cold).
Q: Is it freezer friendly?
A: Yes — freeze in an airtight container before baking. Thaw and bake as directed.
Q: Can I use kale instead of spinach?
A: Absolutely! Just sauté longer until tender.
Nutrition information
Calories: 430
Protein: 16g
Carbs: 52g
Fat: 18g
Fiber:4g
Sodium: 200g