Name: Savory Gnocchi alla Sorrentina Ready in Under 30 Minutes
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (Avocado oil can be used as a substitute.); 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh, minced for best flavor.); 28 ounces Canned Tomatoes (San Marzano tomatoes preferred.); 1 teaspoon Salt (Adjust based on canned tomato saltiness.); 1 teaspoon Black Pepper (Freshly ground to taste.); 10 leaves Fresh Basil Leaves (Fresh is recommended.); 1 pound Gnocchi (Store-bought or homemade, gluten-free option available.); 8 ounces Fresh Mozzarella Cheese (Avoid bagged shredded for texture.); 1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese (Freshly shredded recommended.)

A delightful smell wafts through my kitchen, pulling me back to sunlit afternoons in Italy. Today, I’m thrilled to share my take on the classic Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, a dish that beautifully marries soft, pillowy gnocchi with a luscious homemade tomato sauce. Not only is this recipe a quick and comforting option for busy weeknights, but it also allows for a vegetarian twist that everyone will love. Imagine serving this scrumptious dish in under 30 minutes, inviting friends and family to gather around the table for warmth and laughter. Whether you opt for store-bought or homemade gnocchi, the result will be a satisfying meal that soothes the soul. Are you ready to create a comforting bowl of Italian delight? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Gnocchi alla Sorrentina a Must-Try?

Quick and Easy: You’ll have this delicious dish on the table in under 30 minutes—perfect for busy weeknights!

Comforting Flavors: The rich homemade tomato sauce combined with gooey mozzarella creates a heartwarming experience.

Versatile: Enjoy traditional gnocchi or opt for gluten-free options, ensuring everyone at your table is catered for. Consider trying homemade gnocchi for an extra special touch, as highlighted in my guide on Spaghetti Alla Nerano.

Crowd-Pleasing: This recipe is sure to impress family and friends—perfect for gatherings or a cozy dinner.

Simple Ingredients: With just a handful of pantry staples and fresh herbs, it’s easy to whip up this delightful meal.

Hearty and Satisfying: Each bite is a creamy, cheesy hug in a bowl, making it ideal for when you need a little comfort food.

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina Ingredients

For the Sauce

Olive Oil – Adds richness and is used for sautéing garlic; avocado oil works as a substitution if desired.
Garlic – Provides delicious flavor and aroma; always use fresh, minced garlic for the best taste.
Canned Tomatoes – The base of the sauce; choosing high-quality San Marzano tomatoes is ideal, but fresh tomatoes can be used in season.
Salt – Enhances the overall flavor; adjust according to the saltiness of your canned tomatoes.
Black Pepper – Freshly ground pepper elevates the sauce’s flavor; add to taste for a hint of warmth.
Fresh Basil Leaves – Adds aromatic notes to the dish; while dried basil can be used, fresh is always recommended for the best flavor.

For the Gnocchi

Gnocchi – The star of the dish; you can choose either store-bought or homemade gnocchi, and for a gluten-free version, opt for gluten-free gnocchi.

For Topping

Fresh Mozzarella Cheese – Melts beautifully into the sauce; avoid bagged shredded mozzarella for optimal texture, and consider buffalo mozzarella as a tasty alternative.
Parmesan Cheese – Adds a delightful sharpness; freshly shredded parmesan will give the best flavor profile.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). This temperature is essential for achieving that perfectly melted and lightly browned mozzarella on top of your Gnocchi alla Sorrentina. While the oven heats up, you can prepare your skillet and other ingredients, ensuring everything is ready for the cooking process.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic
In an oven-safe skillet, heat a couple of tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat for about 1-2 minutes. Once the oil is shimmering, add in your freshly minced garlic and sauté it for roughly 2 minutes. Keep an eye on it to ensure the garlic doesn’t burn; it should be softened and fragrant, setting the flavorful base for your sauce.

Step 3: Prepare Sauce
Next, add in the canned tomatoes, along with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Cook this mixture for 8-10 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to break down while stirring occasionally. You’ll want to see the sauce thicken slightly and bubble gently, releasing its wonderful aroma; this marks the start of your Gnocchi alla Sorrentina magic.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients
Lower the heat and stir in half of the fresh mozzarella and basil leaves into the sauce. Once well combined, gently fold in the gnocchi, ensuring they’re coated in the rich tomato mixture. This stage is key for creating that comforting and hearty dish; the gnocchi should be nestled perfectly in the sauce, ready for baking.

Step 5: Bake
Now, it’s time to layer on the remaining mozzarella and half of the freshly grated parmesan over your crafted Gnocchi alla Sorrentina. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes. Keep an eye on it; you’ll know it’s done when the cheese is beautifully melted and beginning to turn golden brown on top.

Step 6: Finalize and Serve
Once out of the oven, sprinkle the remaining parmesan and more fresh basil leaves over the top of your Gnocchi alla Sorrentina. The bright basil will contrast beautifully with the rich colors of the dish. Serve it immediately, allowing everyone to enjoy this comforting meal while warm, celebrating home-cooked goodness and delicious flavors.

Expert Tips for Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Quality Matters: Use high-quality canned tomatoes, like San Marzano, to avoid an overly acidic sauce. Fresh tomatoes are fantastic too when in season!
Monitor Garlic: Sauté garlic just until fragrant. Burning it can lead to bitter flavors that overpower your delicious Gnocchi alla Sorrentina.
Check Oven Temperature: Ensure your oven is fully preheated. This prevents the cheese from overcooking while allowing the gnocchi to stay tender.
Frozen Gnocchi Care: If using frozen gnocchi, thaw it in the refrigerator beforehand. This helps maintain the desired texture when cooked.
Serve Fresh: Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is best enjoyed immediately, as the cheese is melt-in-your-mouth creamy right out of the oven!

What to Serve with Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Delightful accompaniments can elevate your Gnocchi alla Sorrentina into a hearty and balanced feast that warms the soul.

Crusty Garlic Bread: The perfect tool for sopping up the delicious tomato sauce, enhancing every bite with a fragrant crunch.
Simple Green Salad: A refreshing side of mixed greens tossed in a light vinaigrette adds a crisp contrast to the creamy gnocchi.
Grilled Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant bring a smoky sweetness, complementing the savory flavors of the dish beautifully.
Roasted Asparagus: A touch of earthiness and tenderness from the asparagus perfectly balances the rich tomato sauce and cheesy goodness.
Bruschetta: Topped with fresh tomatoes and basil, this appetizer bursts with flavor and mirrors the vibrant notes in the gnocchi.
Red Wine: A glass of Chianti or a light Pinot Noir pairs wonderfully, amplifying the richness of the gnocchi while cutting through the creaminess.
Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic Italian dessert, offering a delightful contrast to the main course’s savory elements.

Storage Tips for Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days to maintain freshness and flavor.

Freezer: For extended storage, freeze Gnocchi alla Sorrentina in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

Reheating: Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes, or until heated through.

Leftover Handling: Remember that the texture may change slightly after freezing, but the rich flavors will still be a comforting treat!

Make Ahead Options

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a fantastic candidate for meal prep! You can prepare the sauce and combine it with the gnocchi up to 24 hours in advance. To do this, simply sauté the garlic, add the tomatoes, and let the sauce simmer as directed. Mix in the gnocchi with half of the mozzarella and basil, then store the mixture in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, preheat your oven and transfer everything to your oven-safe skillet or a baking dish, top with the remaining cheese, and bake as instructed. This way, you’ll save time on busy weeknights while still enjoying a dish that’s just as delicious!

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina Variations

Feel free to explore your creativity and personalize this comforting dish to perfectly suit your taste preferences!

Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi to enjoy this classic dish without the wheat. Homemade recipes can bring extra flavor and freshness.
Creamy Texture: Substitute mozzarella with ricotta or burrata for an indulgent, creamy twist. The richness of these cheeses will elevate every bite.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes to the sauce for a delightful heat that balances beautifully with the creamy cheese. The warmth will awaken your palate!
Vegetable Infusion: Stir in sautéed spinach or roasted zucchini for vibrant color and nutrition. This will make your dish even more wholesome and visually appealing.
Pasta Switch: Replace gnocchi with other pasta types like penne or fusilli. Adjust the cooking time as necessary for optimal texture and satisfaction.
Herb Blend: Experiment with fresh herbs like thyme or oregano to enhance the sauce. A sprinkle of freshness will take your flavors to the next level.
Smoky Flavor: Incorporate smoked mozzarella for a unique, smoky essence that adds depth to every mouthful. This gives an exciting twist to the classic recipe.
Extra Cheese: Don’t hold back on the cheese! Adding extra parmesan on top right before serving creates a delightful crunch and enhances the cheesiness.

Whatever variation you choose, you’ll find that Gnocchi alla Sorrentina remains a savory delight. Consider pairing it with sides like garlic bread or a crisp salad to complete your meal. For more exciting Italian inspiration, check out my recipe for Spaghetti Alla Nerano.

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina Recipe FAQs

What type of tomatoes should I use for the sauce?
Absolutely! I recommend using high-quality canned tomatoes, like San Marzano, as they provide a rich flavor without an overly acidic taste. If fresh tomatoes are in season, feel free to use them. For fresh tomatoes, peel them and cook them down in the sauce for about 10-12 minutes until soft.

How should I store Gnocchi alla Sorrentina leftovers?
Very simply! Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This keeps the flavors fresh. If you’re planning to keep them longer, freeze it in a sealed container for up to 3 months.

Can I freeze Gnocchi alla Sorrentina?
Yes, you can! To freeze it, first cool the dish completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container or bag and freeze for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge, then reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 15 minutes or until thoroughly warmed.

What should I do if my sauce becomes too acidic?
If you find your sauce is tasting too acidic, a common trick is to add a pinch of sugar. Start with about 1/2 teaspoon and stir it in. Taste again before adding more, as this can help balance the acidity without overpowering the other flavors.

Can I use gluten-free gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! There are many great gluten-free gnocchi options available at the store. Just cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the sauce. You can even try making homemade gluten-free gnocchi for a more personalized touch! If you’re using store-bought, I suggest cooking them a little less than the package time to ensure they maintain a pleasant texture in the final bake.

Is Gnocchi alla Sorrentina safe for pets?
While Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is delicious for humans, it’s best to avoid sharing with pets. The garlic and cheese may not be suitable for them and could cause digestive issues. Stick to pet-friendly treats to keep your furry friends happy!