Description
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a classic Italian comfort food dish featuring tender potato gnocchi drenched in a rich tomato sauce, topped with fresh mozzarella, and baked to bubbly perfection. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines garlic-infused olive oil, fresh basil, and a blend of creamy cheeses to create a heartwarming meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 500 grams Potato Gnocchi (store-bought gnocchi is totally acceptable for a quick meal)
- 2 tablespoons Olive Oil (opt for extra virgin olive oil for a richer taste)
- 2 cloves Garlic (minced or crushed garlic works best for this recipe)
- 400 grams Tomato Passata or Crushed Tomatoes (canned tomatoes can substitute if you’re in a pinch)
- 1 teaspoon Salt
- 1 teaspoon Black Pepper
- 250 grams Fresh Mozzarella (shredded mozzarella can be a handy alternative)
- 50 grams Grated Parmesan Cheese
- A few Fresh Basil Leaves (dried basil can be a backup but use less to avoid overpowering the dish)
- As needed Water (always useful if your sauce is too thick)
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Add Tomatoes and Season: Stir in the tomato passata or crushed tomatoes, add salt and black pepper. Simmer the sauce gently on low heat for about 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. If the sauce thickens too much, add a little water to reach your desired consistency.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer directly to the tomato sauce, tossing gently to coat well.
- Combine Mozzarella and Basil: Tear the fresh basil leaves and add them to the gnocchi and sauce mixture. Stir in most of the fresh mozzarella, reserving some for topping.
- Assemble for Baking: Transfer the gnocchi with sauce into a baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese evenly over the top.
- Bake: Preheat the oven to 200°C (390°F). Bake the assembled gnocchi for about 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and slightly golden on top.
- Serve: Remove from the oven, garnish with extra fresh basil if desired, and serve immediately as a hearty and comforting meal.
Notes
- Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and speeds up the cooking process.
- Use extra virgin olive oil for deeper flavor in the sauce.
- If fresh mozzarella is watery, drain it well before using to avoid soggy texture.
- Adjust the amount of salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Fresh basil adds the best flavor, but dried basil can be used sparingly.
- This dish is best served hot and fresh straight from the oven.
