If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with comforting flavors and packed with wholesome goodness, look no further than this Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Veggies Recipe. It’s the perfect marriage of pillowy gnocchi, melty mozzarella, savory ground beef, and vibrant vegetables all baked together in a rich tomato sauce. Every bite offers a beautiful balance of textures—from tender gnocchi to the slight crunch of fresh bell pepper—and a hearty, cheesy finish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether it’s a weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat, this recipe is sure to become a beloved favorite you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Veggies Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a vital role, from the fragrant garlic and sweet onion building the flavor base to the bright veggies adding color and nutrition. The ground beef brings depth and heartiness, while the gooey mozzarella cheese ties it all together with irresistible creaminess.
- 2 Tbsp olive oil: The perfect fat for sautéing and bringing out the richness in veggies and meat.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a subtle kick to the sauce.
- 1 small yellow onion, diced: Offers natural sweetness that balances the savory elements.
- 1 large bell pepper, cored + chopped: Gives a fresh, crunchy texture and vibrant color contrast.
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika: Infuses a gentle smoky warmth that enhances the flavor complexity.
- 1/2 tsp chili powder: Adds subtle heat and layers of spice without overpowering.
- 1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a meaty base, making the dish filling.
- 3 cups tomato sauce: It’s the juicy, tangy backbone of this baked gnocchi, soaking everything in rich flavor.
- 2 cups baby spinach: Brings freshness and a mild earthiness, plus a pop of green.
- 500 grams gnocchi: The star ingredient—soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up sauce flawlessly.
- 200 grams shredded mozzarella: Melts into the ultimate gooey, cheesy topping you won’t want to share.
- Salt + pepper, to taste: Essential seasoning to bring out the full spectrum of flavors.
- Fresh basil, to garnish: Adds a bright herbal note and makes the dish irresistibly inviting.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Veggies Recipe
Step 1: Prep Your Oven and Cooking Vessel
Start by preheating your oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit. This ensures it’s perfectly hot and ready for baking the moment the gnocchi and sauce are combined. If you’ve got a large oven-safe skillet, you’re in luck! You can cook and bake all in one dish, making cleanup a breeze. Otherwise, have a big casserole or baking dish standing by.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies with Herbs and Spices
Heat up the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Toss in the minced garlic, diced onion, and chopped bell pepper along with the smoked paprika and chili powder. Stir frequently for about 5 minutes until everything softens and becomes aromatic. This step builds the flavor foundation, with the spices adding warmth and depth that you’ll taste in every bite.
Step 3: Brown the Ground Beef
Next, add the ground beef to your skillet. Cook it while stirring often so it breaks up and browns evenly. This should take about 5 to 8 minutes, or until you don’t see any pink left. Season with salt and pepper during cooking to enhance the beef’s natural flavor and make your Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Veggies Recipe truly savory.
Step 4: Mix in Tomato Sauce and Spinach
Pour in the tomato sauce and add the baby spinach leaves while the skillet is still on medium heat. Stir until the spinach wilts, only about 2 minutes. This combination creates a rich, colorful sauce that coats every piece of the gnocchi perfectly. Remove from heat once combined to prepare for the next step.
Step 5: Add the Gnocchi
Stir the gnocchi directly into the saucy skillet mixture, coating each dumpling evenly. These soft pillows are ready to soak up the robust sauce, so be generous with mixing to ensure every bite is packed with flavor.
Step 6: Transfer and Top with Cheese
If your skillet is oven-safe, you’re all set to go. Otherwise, transfer the whole gnocchi and veggie mixture into your baking dish. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top generously. This cheese layer will melt and bubble beautifully in the oven, creating the signature cheesy crust for the dish.
Step 7: Bake Until Bubbling and Melted
Place your baking dish or skillet into the preheated oven. Let it bake for about 20 minutes, or until the mozzarella on top is fully melted, golden around the edges, and delightfully bubbly. This step brings it all together with a luscious, gooey texture that’s simply irresistible.
Step 8: Garnish and Serve
Remove your Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Veggies Recipe from the oven and immediately sprinkle fresh basil on top. This adds a refreshing and fragrant touch that brightens the entire dish. Serve it hot, and get ready to savor every mouthwatering bite.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Veggies Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is the classic finishing touch, but you can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan for an extra salty kick. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a lovely layer of richness or heat depending on your mood.
Side Dishes
Because this baked gnocchi is so filling on its own, keep your sides light and fresh. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted asparagus pairs beautifully. Garlic bread or a simple focaccia also makes a fantastic accompaniment to mop up any leftover cheesy tomato sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming touch, serve individual portions straight out of mini cast-iron skillets or ramekins. You can also layer it with dollops of ricotta or dollops of pesto before baking for added gourmet flair. Pair with a bold red wine to truly impress dinner guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Veggies Recipe is just as delicious reheated! Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors meld even more after resting, so leftovers can taste even better next day.
Freezing
You can freeze any extra portions in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. This makes a convenient meal prep option when you’re short on time but crave a homemade comfort dish.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit to retain that tasty baked cheese crust and prevent sogginess. You can also microwave a single serving, but keep a close eye to avoid overcooking the gnocchi.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the ground beef and add in extra veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for added substance. You could also swap the meat with plant-based crumbles to keep it hearty.
What other cheeses can I use besides mozzarella?
Cheddar, fontina, or provolone all melt beautifully and give different flavor twists. Combining mozzarella with a sharper cheese can make it even more exciting.
Do I have to use fresh basil for garnish?
Fresh basil is ideal for its bright aroma and flavor, but if you don’t have any on hand, dried basil or parsley work as substitutes. You can also skip garnish altogether if you’re in a hurry.
Is it better to use fresh or frozen gnocchi?
Fresh gnocchi tends to be softer and cooks faster, making it perfect for this recipe. However, frozen gnocchi works fine too—just be sure to thaw them first or increase cooking time slightly.
Can I prepare the sauce and meat mixture ahead of time?
Yes! You can cook the meat and veggies, then mix in the sauce and spinach the day before. When ready, just stir in the gnocchi and bake as usual. This can save you time on busy nights.
Final Thoughts
This Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Veggies Recipe is truly a recipe you’ll want to keep close by. It delivers on comfort, flavor, and a wonderful sense of home-cooked satisfaction that’s hard to beat. Whether you’re feeding family or just treating yourself, it’s a warm hug of a meal that’s begging to be shared. Go ahead, give it a try, and watch it instantly become a new favorite in your dinner rotation.
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Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with Veggies Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A hearty and flavorful Cheesy Baked Gnocchi with ground beef and colorful vegetables, baked to perfection with melted mozzarella cheese and fresh basil garnish. This comforting dish combines tender gnocchi with a savory tomato-based sauce and fresh veggies for a satisfying meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 Tbsp olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 1 large bell pepper, cored and chopped
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- 1 pound ground beef
- 3 cups tomato sauce (approximately 770 ml jar of marinara)
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 500 grams gnocchi (approx. 17.5 ounce package)
- 200 grams shredded mozzarella (7 ounces)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil, to garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F. Prepare a large oven-safe skillet or have a large baking/casserole dish ready for the meal.
- Sauté Vegetables: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic, diced onion, and chopped bell pepper along with smoked paprika and chili powder. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are lightly browned and fragrant.
- Cook Ground Beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet and cook for 5-8 minutes, stirring regularly until the beef is fully cooked and no longer pink. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add Sauce and Spinach: Stir in the tomato sauce and baby spinach into the skillet. Cook until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in the gnocchi until well combined.
- Assemble for Baking: Transfer the mixture to your prepared baking dish or keep it in the oven-safe skillet. Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella over the top.
- Bake: Place the baking dish or skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese has melted and is bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves. Serve hot and enjoy this cheesy, comforting baked gnocchi dish.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, substitute ground beef with plant-based meat or mushrooms.
- You can add other vegetables such as zucchini or mushrooms to enhance the dish.
- If you have an oven-safe skillet, it consolidates cooking and baking steps.
- Adjust seasoning to your preference, adding extra chili powder for more heat.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or microwave.
