If you’re looking for a warm, comforting dish that combines pillowy gnocchi, rich cheeses, and vibrant veggies in one irresistible bake, this Cheesy Baked Gnocchi Casserole Recipe is an absolute winner. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a big, delicious hug on a plate—perfect for cozy family dinners or when you want to impress friends with minimal effort. Each bite delivers creamy, cheesy goodness with layers of flavor that keep you coming back for more.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This Cheesy Baked Gnocchi Casserole Recipe relies on simple yet essential ingredients that create a perfect balance of taste, texture, and color. Each component plays a key role—from the tender gnocchi and juicy tomatoes to the melty mozzarella and fragrant fresh herbs.
- Potato gnocchi (1 lb / 450g): The soft, pillowy base that soaks up all the delicious sauce and cheese.
- Italian sausage (1 lb / 450g, optional): Adds a savory, meaty depth; feel free to swap for a plant-based protein or skip for a vegetarian version.
- Marinara sauce (1 cup / 240ml): Brings vibrant tomato flavor and moistness to the casserole.
- Heavy cream (1 cup / 240ml): Makes the sauce luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- Mozzarella cheese (2 cups / 200g, shredded): Creates that quintessential cheesy stretch and golden bubbly top.
- Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup / 50g, grated): Adds a sharp, nutty kick and enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Cherry tomatoes (1 cup / 150g, halved): Burst of freshness and color in every bite.
- Fresh spinach (2 cups / 60g): Provides a nutrient boost and beautiful green contrast.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Infuses the dish with aromatic, savory notes.
- Dried oregano (1 tsp): A warm, earthy herb that complements Italian flavors perfectly.
- Fresh basil leaves (1/4 cup / 10g, torn): For that punch of herbal brightness at the end.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to balance all flavors.
- Olive oil (2 tbsp): Used for sautéing and adding richness without overpowering.
How to Make Cheesy Baked Gnocchi Casserole Recipe
Step 1: Preheat and Prepare the Gnocchi
Start by heating your oven to a cozy 375°F (190°C). If you’re using frozen gnocchi, give them a quick boil according to package directions to cook them perfectly tender; shelf-stable gnocchi can be used straight away. Having the gnocchi ready ensures your bake will be creamy inside without any clumps of raw dough.
Step 2: Brown the Sausage and Sauté the Garlic
In a large oven-safe skillet, warm your olive oil over medium heat and add the minced garlic, letting it release its irresistible fragrance for about a minute. Next, toss in the Italian sausage (if using) and cook it until it’s nicely browned and cooked through. This step layers in those deep, savory flavors that take the casserole to the next level.
Step 3: Prepare the Creamy Tomato Sauce
Pour the marinara sauce right into the skillet with the cooked sausage and garlic, then stir in the heavy cream and sprinkle in the dried oregano. This mixture forms a luscious, velvety sauce that hugs every gnocchi dumpling and vegetable.
Step 4: Layer Your Casserole
Here’s where the fun really begins! Start by spreading a little sauce on the bottom of your skillet to prevent sticking, then add a layer of gnocchi. Follow that with handfuls of fresh spinach and halved cherry tomatoes, then scatter some cooked sausage and sprinkle a mix of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat these layers until you fill your skillet or use up all the ingredients, making sure to finish with a generous layer of cheese on top for that golden crust.
Step 5: Bake and Broil to Perfection
Pop the skillet into your preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes until the cheese melts into bubbly perfection and turns a gorgeous golden color. If you’re craving a crispier top, slide the casserole under the broiler for an extra 2-3 minutes. Keep an eye on it so it doesn’t burn!
Step 6: Garnish and Rest
Once out of the oven, sprinkle torn fresh basil leaves over the top. Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes to set—it makes serving easier and allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
How to Serve Cheesy Baked Gnocchi Casserole Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is the star garnish, adding a pop of color and a refreshing herbal lift. You can also grate a bit of extra Parmesan on top just before serving or drizzle a small splash of extra virgin olive oil for a glossy finish.
Side Dishes
This cheesy baked gnocchi casserole is quite rich and filling, so pair it with light, crisp side dishes like a peppery arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or steamed green beans with a squeeze of lemon. Garlic bread or a simple bruschetta makes a fantastic companion too if you want to turn it into a hearty meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve your Cheesy Baked Gnocchi Casserole Recipe straight from the skillet for a rustic vibe that’s sure to impress. For a more elegant presentation, scoop portions into individual oven-safe ramekins and bake them separately. You can even add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a sprinkle of chili flakes for a little extra flair and heat.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, gently transfer them to an airtight container and keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as tasty (if not better!).
Freezing
This casserole freezes beautifully. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and store for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) covered with foil until warmed through, about 15-20 minutes. You can also microwave individual servings, but the oven method keeps the texture intact and the cheese melty.
FAQs
Can I make the Cheesy Baked Gnocchi Casserole Recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the Italian sausage or substitute it with sautéed mushrooms, roasted vegetables, or your favorite plant-based protein to keep it hearty and delicious.
What type of gnocchi works best for this casserole?
Both shelf-stable and frozen gnocchi work well. Just make sure to cook frozen gnocchi briefly before assembling the casserole to ensure they hold their shape and cook evenly in the bake.
Can I use other cheeses?
Yes! While mozzarella and Parmesan provide the classic melty and nutty flavors, feel free to experiment with fontina, provolone, or even a bit of sharp cheddar for a unique twist.
Is there a way to make this dish gluten-free?
Look for gluten-free gnocchi options, which are now widely available. Just double-check all other ingredients, like marinara sauce, to ensure they don’t contain gluten additives.
How spicy is this casserole?
This Cheesy Baked Gnocchi Casserole Recipe is mild by default. You can add crushed red pepper flakes to the sauce or sprinkle some on top before baking if you enjoy a little heat.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about the cozy combination of soft gnocchi, creamy cheesy sauce, and fresh garden ingredients baked to bubbly perfection. This Cheesy Baked Gnocchi Casserole Recipe makes for an effortless yet impressive meal that’s sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll love every luscious, comforting bite!
Print
Cheesy Baked Gnocchi Casserole Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A comforting and cheesy baked gnocchi casserole layered with Italian sausage, fresh spinach, cherry tomatoes, and a creamy marinara sauce, topped with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese, perfect for a satisfying family meal.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage, casings removed (optional)
- 1 cup (240ml) marinara sauce
- 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
- 2 cups (200g) shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup (150g) cherry tomatoes, halved
- 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/4 cup (10g) fresh basil leaves, torn
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C) to prepare for baking the casserole.
- Cook Gnocchi: If using frozen gnocchi, give them a quick boil according to package instructions. Shelf-stable gnocchi can be used as is.
- Sauté Garlic and Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the sausage and cook until browned. Remove and set aside.
- Prepare Sauce: Using the same skillet, mix the marinara sauce with heavy cream and dried oregano to create a creamy base.
- Layer Casserole: Begin layering by adding a portion of the sauce mixture, then gnocchi, spinach, halved cherry tomatoes, cooked sausage, and a sprinkle of mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Repeat layers until all ingredients are used or the skillet is full.
- Top with Cheese: Finish the top layer with a generous amount of shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese.
- Bake: Place the skillet in the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown. Optionally broil for an additional 2-3 minutes to crisp the top.
- Garnish: Remove from oven and sprinkle fresh torn basil leaves over the casserole before serving.
- Rest: Let the casserole rest for 5-10 minutes to set and develop the best consistency before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute Italian sausage with a vegetarian sausage or omit it for a vegetarian version.
- Fresh spinach can be replaced with kale or Swiss chard if preferred.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Ensure to use an oven-safe skillet or transfer the casserole to a baking dish if your skillet is not oven-safe.
- Broiling at the end enhances the cheese crust for an even more appetizing finish.
