Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is an Italian classic that combines soft, pillowy gnocchi with a rich, savory tomato sauce, topped with melted mozzarella cheese. It’s a comforting, hearty dish that’s packed with flavor and is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner or when you’re entertaining guests. The combination of tender gnocchi, flavorful tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese is simply irresistible, making it one of those dishes you’ll want to make again and again. Plus, it’s a crowd-pleaser that’s both easy to prepare and full of authentic Italian flavors!

Ingredients

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

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes

• 1 tablespoon tomato paste

• 1 teaspoon dried basil

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• Salt and pepper to taste

• 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella cheese, cubed or shredded

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

• Optional: Red pepper flakes (for a spicy kick)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Cook the Gnocchi: In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes for store-bought gnocchi). Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

2. Make the Sauce: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

3. Add Tomatoes and Seasoning: Add the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste to the skillet, stirring well to combine. Sprinkle in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper, and stir again. Let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes to thicken slightly and allow the flavors to meld.

4. Combine the Gnocchi and Sauce: Gently add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss the gnocchi in the sauce to coat them evenly and allow them to simmer in the sauce for another 2-3 minutes.

5. Add Cheese: Once the gnocchi is coated in the sauce, add the cubed or shredded mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Stir gently to melt the cheese and create a gooey, cheesy sauce. You can also cover the skillet and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and bubbly.

6. Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately. Garnish with fresh basil leaves and, if desired, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for some extra heat.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4

• Prep time: 10 minutes

• Cook time: 20 minutes

• Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: You can add cooked chicken, sausage, or meatballs to the dish for extra protein. Just toss the cooked meat into the sauce along with the gnocchi.

• Vegetarian Option: For a richer vegetable version, sauté spinach, zucchini, or eggplant with the garlic before adding the sauce for a healthy twist.

• Vegan Version: To make it vegan, swap out the mozzarella and Parmesan for plant-based cheese alternatives, or use nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.

• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a spicy kick, or use spicy Italian sausage in place of regular sausage.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

• Reheating: To reheat, place the gnocchi in a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or broth to help loosen the sauce. Stir occasionally until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi in this recipe. Simply cook the frozen gnocchi according to the package instructions, and then proceed with the rest of the recipe.

2. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the tomato sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to serve, just reheat the sauce and add the gnocchi.

3. Can I use store-bought tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes?

Yes, you can use store-bought tomato sauce if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the seasonings to your taste since pre-made sauces can vary in flavor.

4. Can I make this dish without cheese?

You can omit the cheese for a dairy-free version, but the cheese adds a rich, creamy element to the dish. If you prefer, you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative.

5. Can I make gnocchi from scratch?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi can be made using potatoes, flour, and eggs, and it adds a lovely personal touch to this dish. It does take a bit more time, but the results are well worth the effort.

6. Can I freeze this dish?

While gnocchi can be frozen before cooking, it’s best to freeze the sauce separately. After cooking, store the gnocchi and sauce separately in airtight containers. They can be frozen for up to 3 months and reheated when you’re ready to enjoy.

7. Can I use other cheeses besides mozzarella?

Yes! You can use other cheeses like provolone, fontina, or gouda, which will melt beautifully and add different flavors to the dish.

8. Can I make this dish in advance?

While gnocchi is best served fresh, you can prepare the sauce and even cook the gnocchi in advance. Store the components separately and combine them when you’re ready to serve. Just be sure to reheat thoroughly.

9. How do I prevent the gnocchi from sticking together?

Make sure to cook the gnocchi in plenty of boiling salted water and stir them gently while cooking to prevent them from sticking. Once cooked, drain them immediately and proceed with the recipe.

10. Can I make this dish gluten-free?

Yes, you can make this dish gluten-free by using gluten-free gnocchi. Many stores offer gluten-free gnocchi, or you can make your own using gluten-free flour.

Conclusion

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a comforting, delicious, and easy-to-make Italian dish that’s sure to become a family favorite. With its tender gnocchi, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese, it’s a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a special dinner or just need a quick, flavorful weeknight meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress! Enjoy this simple yet indulgent Italian classic right at home!