Imagine a dish that combines the pillowy softness of perfectly cooked gnocchi with the vibrant burst of roasted cherry tomatoes and the aromatic charm of fresh basil. This Baked Gnocchi with Tomato and Basil is not just a meal—it's a culinary journey that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy masterpiece right in your own kitchen. With just 35 minutes between you and pure Italian-inspired bliss, this recipe promises to become your new go-to comfort food that will impress family and friends alike.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- Gnocchi
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Fresh basil, chopped
- Olive oil
- Garlic, minced
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt
- Pepper
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Ensure the oven rack is positioned in the middle of the oven for even cooking.
- In a large mixing bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, minced garlic, and a generous drizzle of olive oil. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tossing to coat evenly.
- Take a large baking dish and lightly grease it with olive oil to prevent sticking. Spread the uncooked gnocchi in a single layer across the bottom of the dish.
- Pour the seasoned cherry tomatoes and garlic over the gnocchi, ensuring they are distributed evenly throughout the dish.
- Drizzle additional olive oil over the entire dish and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan cheese.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the gnocchi are golden and slightly crispy on the edges, and the tomatoes have softened and begun to burst.
- Remove from the oven and let rest for 2-3 minutes to allow the dish to settle and cool slightly.
- Garnish with freshly chopped basil leaves, adding a burst of fresh herb flavor and vibrant color.
- Serve immediately while hot, with additional grated Parmesan cheese on the side if desired.
Tips
- Choose high-quality gnocchi: Fresh or vacuum-sealed gnocchi work best for this recipe, ensuring a tender texture.
- Don't overcrowd the baking dish: Spread gnocchi in a single layer to allow even cooking and crispy edges.
- Use ripe, sweet cherry tomatoes for the most intense flavor. If they're in season, they'll add natural sweetness to the dish.
- Be generous with olive oil and Parmesan cheese—they create a rich, golden crust and add depth to the flavor profile.
- Watch the oven carefully in the last 5 minutes to prevent burning. The goal is golden and crispy, not charred.
- Let the dish rest briefly after baking to allow the flavors to meld and the gnocchi to set.
- Fresh basil is key—add it just before serving to maintain its bright, aromatic quality.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 350kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 12g
Fat: 15g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 20mg
