Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi

Name: Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi; 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped; 1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts

I absolutely love making Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi because it's the perfect comfort food for any day. The combination of pillowy gnocchi, rich tomato sauce, and fresh spinach creates a dish that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition. This recipe is super easy to throw together, making it a fantastic weeknight dinner option. Plus, the aroma that fills the kitchen as it bakes is simply irresistible! I know you’ll enjoy this unique take on an Italian classic just as much as I do.

Created by

Lila Morgan

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:28:14.035Z

When I first tried this recipe, I was amazed by how quickly it came together and how delicious it tasted. The combination of fresh spinach and the tangy tomato sauce pairs perfectly with the soft texture of gnocchi, making every bite comforting. I remember trying it with a sprinkle of parmesan on top, and it took the flavors to a whole new level!

One tip I have is to let the gnocchi sit in the tomato sauce for a few minutes before baking. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully and ensures that every piece is infused with that rich, savory taste. Trust me, this small step is worth it for the best results!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Rich tomato flavor complemented by fresh spinach
Pillow-soft gnocchi that absorbs the sauce perfectly
Quick and easy to prepare, making it a weeknight favorite

      

Tips for Perfect Gnocchi

Cooking gnocchi can be tricky, but a great tip is to always salt the boiling water generously. This is the only opportunity to season the gnocchi itself, and it enhances the dish's overall flavor. Watch closely as they float; this is the sign that they are done—usually around 2-3 minutes. If overcooked, they may become mushy, so remove them promptly with a slotted spoon.

To ensure your gnocchi has the ideal texture, consider using a non-stick pot or a large pot with plenty of boiling water. This helps prevent sticking and ensures they cook evenly. If using fresh gnocchi made from scratch, the cooking time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them and adjust as necessary for optimal results.

Enhancing the Sauce

The sauce plays a crucial role in this dish, and you can easily elevate it by adding a pinch of sugar to cut the acidity from the tomato sauce. This simple tweak helps round out the flavors, making a more balanced and delicious sauce. Additionally, feel free to experiment with other herbs like basil or thyme for a personal touch.

If you prefer a heartier sauce, consider adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms along with the garlic. These vegetables add depth and texture, creating a more satisfying dish. You could also substitute crushed tomatoes for the tomato sauce if you're looking for a chunkier consistency; just adjust the cooking time to allow the flavors to meld.

Make-Ahead and Storage Tips

Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi is an excellent dish to prepare ahead of time. You can assemble it in advance and refrigerate it for up to 24 hours before baking. Just cover the dish tightly with foil to retain moisture. If you plan to freeze it, consider undercooking the gnocchi slightly before assembly, as they will continue to cook during reheating—this keeps them from becoming too soft.

When you’re ready to enjoy your gnocchi, simply bake it straight from the fridge, adding an extra 5-10 minutes to the cooking time, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Reheating is simple as well—just add a splash of water or broth to the dish and cover it before warming in the oven, preventing it from drying out.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to whip up a delicious batch of Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi:

Ingredients

1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
1 can (15 oz) tomato sauce
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Now that you have all the ingredients ready, let's dive into making this delightful meal!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi:

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook the Gnocchi

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

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the tomato sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked gnocchi and chopped spinach to the skillet with the sauce. Stir gently to combine.

Assemble and Bake

Transfer the gnocchi mixture to a baking dish. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Serve

Let cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your homemade Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi!

Serve this dish warm, and don't forget to garnish with extra Parmesan if desired!

Pro Tips

For added flavor, try mixing in some chopped fresh basil before baking or use different cheeses based on your preference.

Serving Suggestions

When serving Baked Tomato Spinach Gnocchi, garnish it with fresh basil or a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for an extra flavor boost. Pair it with a crisp green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the cheese and sauce. A side of garlic bread would also complement the dish beautifully, making your meal feel even more indulgent.

For added protein, consider tossing in cooked chicken or Italian sausage before baking. This not only enhances the meal's satisfaction factor but also provides a complete protein option, ideal for those looking to make it more filling.

Variations to Explore

Feel free to personalize this dish by adding seasonal vegetables. Zucchini, asparagus, or even artichoke hearts can be excellent additions that bring more vibrancy and nutrition. Just sauté them alongside the garlic to soften before mixing them into the gnocchi and sauce.

If you're looking for a creamier sauce, try stirring in a splash of cream or a dollop of ricotta just before baking. This shift will create a richer flavor profile and a delightful texture, ensuring every bite is luscious and satisfying.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well! Just cook according to the package instructions before using.

→ Can I substitute the spinach?

Absolutely! Kale or Swiss chard can be good alternatives that will also work well in this recipe.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

If you use gluten-free gnocchi, this recipe can easily be made gluten-free.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare everything up to the baking step and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days before baking.