When it comes to weeknight meals, there are three things we all crave: simplicity, flavor, and comfort. Baked Gnocchi with Spinach & Marinara checks all those boxes and more. This dish is a one-pan wonder that brings together pillowy gnocchi, earthy spinach, a bright and savory marinara sauce, and a blanket of melted cheese that bubbles and browns to perfection.
Unlike traditional pasta bakes, gnocchi doesn’t need to be boiled before baking. This means less prep and fewer dishes—something we can all appreciate after a long day. It’s also incredibly versatile, making it a reliable go-to whether you’re feeding picky eaters, looking for a vegetarian main, or preparing a meatless Monday meal.
Let’s dive into every delicious detail of this recipe so you can serve it with confidence.
Ingredients: Simple, Affordable, and Flavor-Packed
The beauty of this dish is in its simplicity. You only need a handful of pantry staples and a few fresh ingredients to get a meal that tastes like it took hours to prepare.
For the Gnocchi Bake:
- 500g gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (or 1 cup frozen spinach, thawed and drained)
- 2 cups marinara sauce (choose a high-quality store-bought jar or make your own)
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for a slight kick)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Topping:
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Equipment You’ll Need
This recipe is great because it minimizes cleanup. Here’s all you need:
- Large oven-safe skillet or baking dish
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board & knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven
Step-by-Step Instructions: How to Make Baked Gnocchi with Spinach & Marinara
Step 1: Prep and Preheat
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). This ensures a consistent baking temperature for that golden cheese crust.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add the garlic and cook for another minute, stirring frequently so it doesn’t burn.
Step 3: Wilt the Spinach
Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2–3 minutes. If you’re using frozen spinach, make sure it’s thoroughly drained to avoid excess moisture.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Pour in the marinara sauce, and stir in the oregano, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Let everything simmer for about 3 minutes so the flavors meld together.
Step 5: Add Gnocchi
Add the uncooked gnocchi directly into the sauce. Stir well to coat each piece evenly. No need to boil the gnocchi beforehand—it cooks perfectly in the oven!
Step 6: Top with Cheese
Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top. These will melt and brown beautifully in the oven.
Step 7: Bake to Perfection
Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
Step 8: Rest and Garnish
Remove from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfect Baked Gnocchi Every Time
- Choose good-quality gnocchi. If using store-bought, pick a brand known for fresh, pillowy gnocchi.
- Don’t skip the rest time. Letting the dish sit for a few minutes allows the sauce to thicken slightly and makes serving easier.
- Use homemade marinara for a flavor upgrade. If time allows, a simple sauce made from crushed tomatoes, garlic, and herbs can elevate the dish.
Variations to Try
Add Protein:
- Sausage: Cook and crumble Italian sausage and stir it into the sauce before adding gnocchi.
- Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken is a great shortcut.
- White beans: For a vegetarian protein option, add canned cannellini beans or chickpeas.
Change Up the Veggies:
- Substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach.
- Add mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra texture.
Make It Creamy:
- Stir in 1/4 cup of cream or a dollop of ricotta for a richer, creamier sauce.
Serving Suggestions
- With Garlic Bread: Soak up every bit of marinara and cheese.
- Side Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
- Wine Pairing: A medium-bodied red like Chianti or Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully.
Storage and Reheating
- Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Freezer: Freeze before baking if you’d like to make this ahead. Thaw in the fridge overnight before baking.
- Reheating: Warm in a 180°C (350°F) oven or microwave in short intervals until heated through.
Final Thoughts: Comfort Food Made Simple
Baked Gnocchi with Spinach & Marinara is everything you want in a weeknight dinner: fast, flavorful, and family-friendly. It comes together with minimal effort but delivers maximum satisfaction. Whether you’re cooking for picky kids, entertaining guests, or simply craving a warm, cheesy pasta bake, this dish is a reliable go-to.
Baked Gnocchi with Spinach & Marinara Recipe
Description
This Baked Gnocchi with Spinach & Marinara is a comforting, cheesy, and hearty weeknight dinner that comes together in just one baking dish. Featuring pillowy gnocchi, a rich tomato marinara, fresh spinach, and melty mozzarella cheese, this dish is both simple to prepare and full of flavor. Perfect for busy evenings, meatless Mondays, or when you need a cozy meal that satisfies the whole family.
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi Bake:
For the Cheese Topping:
Instructions
Preheat and Prepare Ingredients
- Preheat your oven to 200°C. Gather all ingredients and chop the onion, garlic, and spinach.
Sauté the Aromatics
- In a large oven-safe skillet or pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft. Stir in the garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.
Wilt the Spinach
- Add the spinach and cook for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
Add Marinara and Seasonings
- Pour in the marinara sauce. Stir in oregano and red pepper flakes (if using). Let it simmer for 2–3 minutes.
Stir in Gnocchi
- Add the uncooked gnocchi directly into the skillet. Stir well to coat the gnocchi with the sauce. Make sure everything is evenly distributed.
Add Cheese and Bake
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and Parmesan evenly over the top. Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Cool and Serve
- Remove from oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Note
Make It Creamy: Add 1/4 cup of heavy cream or ricotta cheese into the sauce before baking for a richer taste.
Add Protein: Stir in cooked sausage, shredded chicken, or white beans to make it heartier.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave.
Freezing Tip: You can freeze the unbaked assembled dish. Cover tightly and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge before baking.
