Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake

Name: Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound gnocchi; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 tablespoon sugar; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Ideas

I love making this Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake as a comforting family meal. The harmony of tender gnocchi, flavorful tomatoes, and fresh basil creates a dish that's both hearty and refreshing. Every bite bursts with flavor, and the aroma that fills the kitchen is irresistible. It’s a dish that brings everyone to the table, with its vibrant colors and delightful taste making it the perfect centerpiece for my Sunday family gatherings. Plus, it's super easy to whip up, leaving me time to enjoy the day with my loved ones.

Created by

Emma Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:45:34.614Z

When I first tried this Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake, I was amazed by how simple ingredients could come together to create such a delightful dish. The secret lies in using fresh basil and quality tomatoes, which really elevate the flavor profile. I remember the first time I made it; my family couldn’t stop raving about the rich, comforting taste.

I’ve played around with adding sautéed vegetables for extra nutrition and flavor, making this dish even more of a favorite in our home. I suggest letting the dish rest for a few minutes before serving; it makes for a more cohesive bake and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy tomato sauce enveloping soft, pillowy gnocchi
Fresh basil adds a burst of flavor that brightens the dish
Perfect for cozy family dinners or quick weeknight meals

      

Essential Ingredient Insights

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the gnocchi, with its light and fluffy texture that absorbs the rich tomato sauce beautifully. I always recommend selecting quality gnocchi; homemade can elevate the dish, but store-bought works just fine. Look for brands that are fresh or refrigerated for the best texture. If gluten-free, use gluten-free gnocchi varieties that are widely available in grocery stores today.

Fresh basil plays a pivotal role in enhancing the flavor profile of this bake. Its aromatic qualities bring a bright, herbal freshness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes. When selecting basil, opt for vibrant green leaves that are firm to the touch. If fresh basil isn’t available, you can use dried basil, but reduce the amount to one-third, as dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Techniques for a Perfect Bake

When preparing the sauce, it's crucial to let it simmer adequately for about 10 minutes. This simmering time allows the ingredients to meld together, creating a deep, rich flavor. Keep an eye on the sauce and stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning. If the sauce appears too thick while simmering, you can add a splash of vegetable broth or water to achieve your preferred consistency.

Baking is where the magic happens, so don’t rush it! After mixing the gnocchi with the sauce, ensure an even layer in the baking dish. When topped with cheese, the bake should reach a bubbly, golden state after about 15-20 minutes in a preheated oven. If you're aiming for extra crispiness, you can broil it for an additional 1-2 minutes just after baking. Keep a close watch to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients before you start cooking:

Ingredients

1 pound gnocchi
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon sugar
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Once everything is prepped, you're ready to start creating your delicious bake!

Instructions

Follow these steps to make the Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake:

Cook the Gnocchi

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the onions and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Combine Ingredients

Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Mix with Gnocchi

Add the cooked gnocchi and fresh basil to the sauce, gently stirring to combine. Remove from heat.

Bake

Transfer the gnocchi mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.

Serve

Let the dish cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your delicious Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake!

Now that you’ve made your dish, enjoy it with a side salad or some crusty bread!

Pro Tips

For a spicy kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce or mix in some sautéed bell peppers with the gnocchi.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, this Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi Bake stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. For extended storage, you can freeze the bake for up to 2 months. Just be mindful that the texture of the gnocchi might change slightly upon reheating, becoming a bit firmer. To reheat, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator, then bake at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and bubbly.

When reheating, consider adding a splash of water or extra tomato sauce to maintain moisture. If you're reheating individual portions in the microwave, add a small bowl of water alongside to create steam, which helps retain moisture and keeps the gnocchi tender.

Serving Suggestions

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad and a light vinaigrette to cut through the richness of the cheese. Consider topping each serving with fresh basil and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an added kick. It's also fantastic served with crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce. If you're looking to elevate the dish, a drizzle of balsamic reduction over the top adds a gourmet touch.

For those wanting to enhance nutritional value, I sometimes add sautéed spinach or kale into the gnocchi mixture before baking. You can also swap the mozzarella for a dairy-free cheese alternative to cater to dietary restrictions while still enjoying a delicious, cheesy experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi saves time and maintains great flavor.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

This dish is already vegetarian! Just ensure you use vegetarian cheese if needed.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, let it cool completely, then freeze it in an airtight container. Reheat in the oven before serving.

→ What can I substitute for basil?

If you don’t have fresh basil, you can use dried basil or spinach as a substitute.