Imagine a dish that combines the pillowy softness of gnocchi, the rich tang of marinara sauce, and a blanket of melted cheese that stretches with every forkful. This Cheesy Baked Cauliflower Gnocchi isn't just a meal—it's a culinary experience that transforms a simple weeknight dinner into a gourmet feast. Whether you're a busy professional, a health-conscious foodie, or someone who simply loves mind-blowing comfort food, this recipe promises to be your new obsession!
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 25 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package cauliflower gnocchi
- 1 cup marinara sauce
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Lightly grease a 9x13 inch baking dish with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Remove the cauliflower gnocchi from the package. If frozen, do not thaw completely. Pat the gnocchi dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture, which helps achieve a better crispy texture.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the gnocchi in a single layer, allowing them to develop a golden-brown crisp on the bottom, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Transfer the lightly crisped gnocchi to the prepared baking dish, spreading them out in an even layer.
- Pour the marinara sauce evenly over the gnocchi, ensuring each piece is lightly coated.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the gnocchi and sauce, followed by an even layer of grated Parmesan cheese.
- Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and starts to bubble and turn golden brown at the edges.
- Remove from the oven and let it rest for 3-5 minutes to allow the cheese to set and the dish to cool slightly.
- Garnish with fresh chopped basil leaves just before serving for added flavor and visual appeal.
- Serve hot directly from the baking dish, ensuring each portion has a mix of crispy gnocchi and melted cheese.
Tips
- Moisture is the Enemy: Always pat your gnocchi dry before cooking to ensure a crispy exterior. Excess water will make your dish soggy.
- Don't Overcrowd the Skillet: When crisping the gnocchi, cook in a single layer to achieve that beautiful golden-brown color.
- Cheese Selection Matters: Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor. Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect texture.
- Let it Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after baking helps the cheese set and makes serving easier.
- Fresh Herbs are Key: The chopped basil isn't just a garnish—it adds a fresh, aromatic finish that elevates the entire dish.
- Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to experiment with different marinara sauces or even add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 280kcal
Carbohydrates: 25g
Protein: 15g
Fat: 16g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Cholesterol: 35mg
