Gnocchi alla Sorrentina – Baked Gnocchi

There’s something irresistibly comforting about a bubbling dish of Gnocchi alla Sorrentina fresh from the oven. The moment I pull it out, the aroma of melted mozzarella, tangy tomato sauce, and soft potato gnocchi fills my kitchen with warmth. This classic Italian comfort food, originally from the coastal town of Sorrento in southern Italy, is a dish that never fails to make me smile. I love preparing it on cozy evenings when I crave something hearty yet simple — a meal that wraps you in comfort with every bite.

What I love most about this recipe is its simplicity and soul. Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is built from just a few wholesome ingredients — fluffy gnocchi, tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil — yet it delivers the kind of flavor that feels like a warm hug. It’s a celebration of everyday ingredients transformed into something extraordinary. You don’t need fancy equipment or expensive items to make it; the beauty of this dish lies in its humble, homely charm.

You’ll love this recipe because it’s quick, affordable, and versatile. Whether you’re making it for a quiet family dinner, a weekend gathering with friends, or even a romantic night in, it fits the occasion perfectly. The soft potato gnocchi soak up the rich tomato sauce, while the mozzarella melts beautifully to create that irresistible stringy texture we all adore. You can serve it as a main course or even as a side dish alongside grilled chicken or a fresh salad.

Another wonderful thing about this dish is how adaptable it is. You can use store-bought gnocchi for a quick meal or make homemade gnocchi from scratch when you have more time. Want to add a bit more depth? Try stirring in a handful of spinach, roasted vegetables, or even chicken pieces for extra protein. The dish also reheats beautifully, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers the next day.

Best of all, this recipe is budget-friendly. With just a few basic ingredients, you can prepare a filling and delicious meal that tastes like something straight from a trattoria in Sorrento. Every time I make Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, I’m reminded that great food doesn’t have to be complicated or costly — it just needs to be made with love and the right balance of flavors.

Ingredients for the recipe:

• 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

• 2 cups tomato sauce (preferably passata or crushed tomatoes)

• 1 garlic clove, minced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 cup fresh mozzarella, diced

• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh basil leaves, chopped

• Salt and black pepper to taste

How to Prepare Gnocchi alla Sorrentina 

Preparing Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a joyful process that fills your kitchen with the rich aroma of tomatoes, garlic, and basil. It’s a dish that’s both simple and rewarding, making it perfect for busy weeknights or relaxed weekends. What I love most is how it comes together so easily yet tastes like something you’d enjoy in an Italian seaside restaurant. Here’s exactly how I make it, step by step.

Step 1: Prepare the Tomato Sauce

I always begin by preparing a rich, flavorful tomato sauce — the heart of this dish. Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté it gently for about 30 seconds, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to let it brown, as burnt garlic can make the sauce bitter. Once it releases its aroma, pour in the tomato sauce or crushed tomatoes. Stir to combine and season with a pinch of salt and freshly ground black pepper.

Let the sauce simmer gently for about 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to deepen and the texture to thicken slightly. If you want a smoother texture, you can blend the sauce briefly, but I usually prefer it a little rustic, with small bits of tomato throughout. To enhance the flavor, I like to add a few fresh basil leaves while it simmers. The basil infuses the sauce with a fragrant sweetness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once the water reaches a rolling boil, carefully drop in the gnocchi. They cook very quickly — usually in about 2 to 3 minutes. You’ll know they’re ready when they float to the surface. As soon as they rise, scoop them out using a slotted spoon and transfer them directly into the skillet with the tomato sauce. This step helps the gnocchi absorb the flavors while keeping them soft and pillowy.

Step 3: Combine the Gnocchi with the Sauce

Gently toss the gnocchi in the tomato sauce, ensuring each piece is well coated. I find that stirring too vigorously can cause the gnocchi to break apart, so it’s best to fold them lightly using a wooden spoon. At this point, I like to taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sometimes I add an extra drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat.

Step 4: Add the Cheese and Assemble the Dish

Now comes the part that makes Gnocchi alla Sorrentina so irresistibly comforting — the cheese. Add half of the diced mozzarella and stir it gently into the gnocchi mixture. The cheese will begin to melt slightly, creating that creamy, stretchy texture we all love. Next, transfer the gnocchi and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Spread it evenly and sprinkle the remaining mozzarella over the top, followed by grated Parmesan cheese for extra richness and a lightly golden finish.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Place the baking dish in the oven and bake for about 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese on top is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned around the edges. The bubbling sauce and melted cheese are signs that your Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is ready to be enjoyed. I always let it cool for about five minutes before serving so the sauce thickens slightly, allowing the flavors to settle perfectly.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Once the dish is out of the oven, garnish it with a few fresh basil leaves. The vibrant green color against the red sauce and golden cheese makes it visually stunning and adds a burst of freshness to every bite. I love serving it straight from the baking dish at the table — it feels rustic and inviting.

Quick and Easy

Even though it looks impressive, this recipe is surprisingly quick to prepare. From start to finish, it takes less than 40 minutes. Using store-bought gnocchi and a simple tomato sauce saves time without compromising flavor. It’s the kind of recipe you can easily whip up after a long day yet still feel proud to serve.

Customizable

This dish is also wonderfully customizable. You can add vegetables like zucchini, spinach, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and texture. For a heartier version, toss in some cooked chicken pieces or ground beef before baking. If you prefer a cheesier dish, increase the mozzarella or add a touch of ricotta for creaminess.

Popular with Many People

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is loved by both kids and adults alike. The combination of tender gnocchi, tomato sauce, and melted cheese makes it universally appealing. It’s a perfect option for family dinners, potlucks, or even as a comforting meal for one. Every time I make it, I receive compliments and requests for seconds — a true sign of a dish that brings people together.

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina – Baked Gnocchi

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Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a traditional Italian dish from Sorrento, known for its comforting combination of soft potato gnocchi, rich tomato sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese. It’s baked until bubbly and golden, creating a meal that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. This classic recipe is perfect for family dinners, gatherings, or cozy nights at home.

• Author: Lura Skye
• Prep Time: 10
• Cook Time: 30
• Total Time: 40 minutes
• Yield: 4 1x

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 cups tomato sauce (passata or crushed tomatoes)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup fresh mozzarella, diced
• ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh basil leaves, chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Pour in the tomato sauce, season with salt and pepper, and stir well. Simmer gently for 15 minutes to thicken the sauce and develop flavor. Add a few fresh basil leaves during simmering for aroma.
3. In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface (about 2–3 minutes). Remove them immediately using a slotted spoon.
4. Transfer the cooked gnocchi directly into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss gently to coat them evenly without breaking them. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed.
5. Stir half of the diced mozzarella into the gnocchi mixture so it begins to melt.
6. Spoon the gnocchi and sauce mixture into a baking dish. Spread it evenly and top with the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan.
7. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake for 15–20 minutes until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned on top.
8. Remove from the oven and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and serve hot.

Notes

You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience or make your own if desired.

Add cooked chicken or vegetables like zucchini or spinach for variety.

Avoid overbaking to maintain the soft texture of the gnocchi.

For a creamier version, stir in a spoonful of ricotta cheese before baking.

FAQs 

Q1: Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe, especially when you need a quick and easy meal. If you have extra time, homemade gnocchi adds a lovely soft texture, but the store-bought version still delivers great results.

Q2: Can I make Gnocchi alla Sorrentina ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the sauce and assemble the dish ahead of time. Simply cover it tightly and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready to serve, bake it in the oven until heated through and bubbly.

Q3: How can I make this recipe lighter?
To lighten it up, use less mozzarella or replace half of it with a light cheese alternative. You can also add more vegetables such as spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to increase volume and nutrition without adding heaviness.

Q4: What can I serve with Gnocchi alla Sorrentina?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables. A simple side helps balance the richness of the cheesy sauce.

Q5: Can I freeze leftovers?
Yes. Allow leftovers to cool completely, then store them in airtight containers and freeze for up to two months. Reheat in the oven until warm.