Gnocchi alla Sorrentina Recipe

Introduction

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a comforting Italian baked dish featuring soft potato gnocchi layered with fresh mozzarella, fragrant tomato sauce, and aromatic basil. Baked until golden and bubbling, it’s a simple yet elegant meal perfect for sharing.

Ingredients

• 1 kilogram gnocchi
• 2 fresh mozzarella cheese balls
• 400 milliliters tomato passata
• Fresh basil, to taste
• 2 cloves garlic
• Salt, to taste
• Ground black pepper, to taste
• 200 grams Parmigiano-Reggiano

Instructions

1. Step 1: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F (200 degrees C).
2. Step 2: Slice the fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.
3. Step 3: Cook the gnocchi according to the packet instructions. They are ready when they float to the surface.
4. Step 4: In a baking tray, start with a layer of tomato passata. Add a layer of cooked gnocchi, then mozzarella slices, fresh basil leaves, minced garlic, salt, ground black pepper, and grated Parmigiano-Reggiano.
5. Step 5: Repeat the layering process until you finish with a top layer of tomato sauce, mozzarella, and grated Parmigiano-Reggiano.
6. Step 6: Bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes or until the top is melted and golden.

Tips & Variations

• Use homemade gnocchi for a more authentic texture and flavor.
• Swap tomato passata with a rich marinara sauce for added depth.
• Add a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle spicy kick.
• Fresh basil can be added both during layering and as a garnish to retain its bright flavor.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave until warmed through, adding a splash of water or tomato sauce if needed to maintain moisture.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well. Just cook according to the package directions before layering and baking.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely. This recipe is naturally vegetarian as it uses cheese and tomato-based ingredients. Just ensure your cheese doesn’t contain animal rennet if you want a fully vegetarian meal.

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina Recipe

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★★★★★

4.6 from 83 reviews

• Author: Luna
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: 6 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a classic Italian baked dish featuring tender gnocchi layered with rich tomato passata, fresh mozzarella, fragrant basil, garlic, and generous amounts of Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Baked to bubbly perfection, this comforting recipe highlights the best of Southern Italian flavors in a hearty, cheesy, and delicious meal.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

Gnocchi

• 1 kilogram Gnocchi

Cheese

• 2 Fresh Mozzarella Cheese Balls
• 200 grams Parmigiano-Reggiano, grated

Sauce and Herbs

• 400 milliliters Tomato Passata
• To taste Fresh Basil leaves
• 2 cloves Garlic
• To taste Salt
• To taste Ground Black Pepper

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Instructions

1. Preheat the oven: Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius) to prepare for baking the dish.
2. Slice mozzarella: Cut the two fresh mozzarella balls into bite-sized pieces for layering.
3. Cook gnocchi: Boil the gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float to the surface, indicating they are cooked through, then drain.
4. Assemble layers: In a baking tray, begin by spreading a layer of tomato passata. Next, add a layer of cooked gnocchi, followed by mozzarella pieces, fresh basil leaves, salt, ground black pepper, garlic cloves, and sprinkle with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Repeat layering until all ingredients are used, finishing with a top layer of tomato sauce, mozzarella, and grated Parmigiano.
5. Bake: Place the assembled tray in the preheated oven and bake for 30 minutes, or until the top is melted, golden, and bubbly.

Notes

• If fresh basil is not available, dried basil can be substituted, but fresh is preferred for optimal flavor.
• For extra flavor, consider lightly sautéing the garlic before adding it to the layers.
• This dish is best enjoyed fresh from the oven to appreciate the melted cheese texture.
• Ensure gnocchi is properly drained to avoid sogginess in the baked layers.
• Parmigiano-Reggiano can be substituted with Grana Padano if desired.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main Course
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian

Keywords: Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, baked gnocchi, Italian recipe, mozzarella, tomato sauce, Parmigiano-Reggiano, basil, comfort food