Pizza night just got a whole lot more exciting, and dare I say, easier! For years, Friday night in our house meant the ritual of pizza dough making, the chaotic topping station, and the inevitable flour explosion across the kitchen. While we loved the tradition, sometimes, life just gets in the way, and the thought of all that effort felt… well, exhausting. That’s when I stumbled upon the magic of Pizza Gnocchi. Let me tell you, this recipe has been a game-changer. It delivers all the comforting, cheesy, tomatoey goodness of pizza, but in a fraction of the time and with a delightful twist thanks to pillowy soft gnocchi. My family absolutely devours it – even my picky eaters who usually turn their noses up at anything “different” are asking for seconds. It’s become our new go-to for busy weeknights and lazy weekends alike. If you’re looking for a fun, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying meal that’s sure to become a family favorite, look no further than this Pizza Gnocchi recipe. Prepare to be amazed at how simple and utterly delicious it is!

Ingredients

To embark on this culinary adventure and create your own batch of irresistible Pizza Gnocchi, you’ll need a selection of fresh, flavorful ingredients that come together to mimic the iconic taste of your favorite pizza. Let’s break down each component and understand why they are essential for achieving that perfect pizza-gnocchi harmony.

1 lb Gnocchi: The star of our dish! You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience, or if you’re feeling ambitious, homemade gnocchi will elevate this dish to another level. Look for potato gnocchi, as they tend to hold their shape well during baking. Fresh or shelf-stable gnocchi both work beautifully. Consider exploring different types of gnocchi for varied textures and flavors – spinach gnocchi or even sweet potato gnocchi could offer interesting variations for future culinary explorations!
1 tbsp Olive Oil: A cornerstone of Mediterranean cooking, olive oil is crucial for both flavor and function in this recipe. It’s used to sauté our aromatic vegetables, helping to release their flavors and create a fragrant base for our sauce. Extra virgin olive oil is preferred for its richer flavor and health benefits, but regular olive oil will also work perfectly well. The slight peppery notes of good quality olive oil add depth to the overall dish.
1 Onion, chopped: Onion forms the foundational aromatic layer of our pizza sauce. Whether you prefer yellow, white, or even red onion, their sweet and savory notes will meld beautifully with the other ingredients as they sauté. Finely chopping the onion ensures it cooks down evenly and integrates seamlessly into the sauce, avoiding large chunks that might detract from the gnocchi’s tender texture.
2 cloves Garlic, minced: Garlic is the pungent, flavorful powerhouse that adds a distinct Italian character to our Pizza Gnocchi. Freshly minced garlic is always recommended for the most vibrant flavor, but if you’re short on time, pre-minced garlic from a jar can be a convenient substitute. Garlic’s aroma when sautéed in olive oil is simply irresistible and sets the stage for a truly delicious dish. Don’t be shy with the garlic – it’s a key flavor component!
1 (28 oz) can Crushed Tomatoes: The heart and soul of our pizza-inspired sauce! Crushed tomatoes provide the rich, tangy, and slightly sweet base that we associate with classic pizza sauce. Look for good quality crushed tomatoes – San Marzano tomatoes are often considered superior for their flavor and texture, but any brand of crushed tomatoes will work. Using canned crushed tomatoes provides convenience and consistent flavor, especially when fresh, ripe tomatoes are out of season.
1 tsp Dried Oregano: Oregano is a quintessential pizza herb, lending its warm, slightly peppery, and aromatic flavor to our dish. Dried oregano is perfect for this recipe as it intensifies in flavor as it cooks. If you have fresh oregano on hand, you can use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh oregano instead of dried, adding it towards the end of the cooking process to preserve its fresh flavor.
1/2 tsp Dried Basil: Basil, another classic Italian herb, complements the oregano beautifully, adding a slightly sweet and anise-like note to our pizza sauce. Dried basil provides a convenient way to infuse our sauce with its distinctive flavor. Similar to oregano, if you prefer fresh basil, you can use about 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil, adding it towards the end of cooking or as a garnish.
1/4 tsp Red Pepper Flakes (optional): For those who like a little kick, red pepper flakes add a touch of heat to our Pizza Gnocchi. They provide a subtle warmth that enhances the other flavors without being overpowering. If you’re sensitive to spice or cooking for children, you can easily omit the red pepper flakes or reduce the amount. A pinch goes a long way in adding complexity to the flavor profile.
Salt and Black Pepper, to taste: Seasoning is crucial to bring out the best flavors in any dish. Salt enhances the savory notes and balances the acidity of the tomatoes, while black pepper adds a subtle warmth and depth. Always season to taste, starting with a small amount and adding more as needed. Remember that different brands of canned tomatoes can vary in salt content, so tasting and adjusting seasoning is essential.
1 cup Mozzarella Cheese, shredded: No pizza is complete without mozzarella cheese! Shredded mozzarella melts beautifully and provides that classic stretchy, cheesy goodness that we all crave. Low-moisture part-skim mozzarella is a good choice as it melts well and doesn’t release too much liquid. You can also use fresh mozzarella, but be sure to slice it thinly and pat it dry to prevent excess moisture in your dish. For a richer flavor, consider using a blend of mozzarella and provolone or even adding a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Pizza Toppings of your choice (Pepperoni, Sausage, Mushrooms, Peppers, Olives, etc.): This is where you can truly customize your Pizza Gnocchi and make it your own! Think of your favorite pizza toppings and incorporate them into this dish. Pepperoni, sausage, mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, ham, pineapple (if you’re adventurous!), and even cooked chicken or ground beef all work wonderfully. Pre-cook any raw meats like sausage or ground beef before adding them to the gnocchi bake. For vegetables, you can sauté them lightly or add them directly to the dish as they will cook through in the oven. Don’t be afraid to get creative and experiment with different combinations of toppings to discover your perfect Pizza Gnocchi creation!

Instructions

Creating this delightful Pizza Gnocchi is surprisingly straightforward. Follow these step-by-step instructions to transform simple ingredients into a comforting and flavorful meal that’s ready to impress.

Step 1: Prepare the Aromatic Base – Sautéing Onions and Garlic

Begin by heating the olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Using an oven-safe skillet is crucial because we’ll be transferring the entire dish from stovetop to oven later. If you don’t have an oven-safe skillet, you can use a regular skillet for the stovetop steps and then transfer everything to a baking dish before going into the oven.

Once the oil is shimmering gently – it should look slightly wavy and heated but not smoking – add the chopped onion. Sauté the onion for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it becomes softened and translucent. This process releases the natural sugars in the onion, creating a sweeter and more complex flavor base for your sauce. Don’t rush this step; allowing the onion to soften properly is key to a well-developed flavor.

Next, add the minced garlic to the skillet with the softened onions. Sauté the garlic for another minute or two, until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as burnt garlic can become bitter. You’ll know it’s ready when you can smell its pungent and inviting aroma filling your kitchen. This combination of sautéed onions and garlic forms the aromatic foundation upon which our pizza-inspired sauce will be built.

Step 2: Building the Pizza Sauce – Tomatoes and Herbs

Pour the can of crushed tomatoes into the skillet with the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir well to combine everything, ensuring the tomatoes are evenly distributed and coating the onions and garlic. The crushed tomatoes will form the body of our sauce, providing that classic pizza flavor.

Now it’s time to infuse our sauce with those essential pizza herbs. Add the dried oregano and dried basil to the tomato mixture. If you’re using red pepper flakes for a touch of heat, add them now as well. Stir everything together thoroughly to ensure the herbs are well incorporated into the sauce.

Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Start with about ½ teaspoon of salt and ¼ teaspoon of black pepper, and then adjust to your preference. Remember that you can always add more seasoning later, but it’s harder to take it away. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning until it’s flavorful and balanced. The goal is to create a sauce that is slightly tangy, savory, and aromatic, just like your favorite pizza sauce.

Step 3: Simmering and Flavor Development

Bring the tomato sauce to a gentle simmer over medium-low heat. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer, uncovered, for about 10-15 minutes. Simmering allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and the sauce to thicken slightly. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the bottom of the skillet.

While the sauce is simmering, this is a great time to prepare your pizza toppings. If you’re using pepperoni, slice it into rounds. If you’re using sausage, make sure it’s cooked through and sliced or crumbled. If you’re using vegetables like mushrooms or peppers, you can sauté them lightly in a separate pan or add them directly to the gnocchi bake as they will cook through in the oven. Having your toppings prepped and ready will make the final assembly process much smoother.

Step 4: Incorporating the Gnocchi

Once the sauce has simmered for about 10-15 minutes and has thickened slightly, it’s time to add the gnocchi. Pour the gnocchi directly into the skillet with the simmering sauce. Gently stir the gnocchi into the sauce, ensuring that they are evenly coated. The gnocchi will absorb some of the sauce as they bake, becoming wonderfully flavorful.

If you’re using any pre-cooked toppings like pepperoni or sausage, you can add them to the skillet now, scattering them over the gnocchi and sauce mixture. This ensures that the toppings are heated through and become integrated into the dish as it bakes.

Step 5: Cheesy Perfection – Adding Mozzarella and Baking

Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This temperature is ideal for baking the Pizza Gnocchi, ensuring that the gnocchi cooks through, the cheese melts beautifully, and the sauce becomes bubbly and flavorful.

Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese evenly over the gnocchi and sauce mixture in the skillet. Make sure to cover the entire surface with cheese for that ultimate cheesy pizza experience. If you’re using any additional toppings that you want to be visible on top, like sliced olives or bell peppers, you can arrange them on top of the cheese now.

Transfer the oven-safe skillet (or baking dish if you transferred the mixture) to the preheated oven. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the gnocchi is heated through, the sauce is bubbly around the edges, and the mozzarella cheese is melted and golden brown and bubbly. The baking time may vary slightly depending on your oven and the type of gnocchi you are using. Keep an eye on it and bake until it reaches that perfect level of cheesy, bubbly perfection.

Step 6: Rest and Serve

Once the Pizza Gnocchi is baked to golden brown perfection, carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This resting period allows the sauce to settle slightly and the gnocchi to cool down just enough to be enjoyed without burning your mouth.

Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired, for a touch of freshness and visual appeal. Serve your Pizza Gnocchi hot and enjoy the delicious combination of pillowy gnocchi, flavorful pizza sauce, and melty cheese. Get ready for rave reviews from your family and friends!

Nutrition Facts

(Please note: Nutritional information is an estimate and can vary based on specific ingredients and brands used. This is an approximate guide per serving.)

Servings: Approximately 6 servings

Calories per serving: Approximately 450-550 calories

Approximate Nutritional Breakdown per Serving:

Protein: 20-25g
Fat: 20-25g (depending on cheese and toppings)
Saturated Fat: 10-12g (depending on cheese and toppings)
Cholesterol: 60-80mg
Sodium: 700-900mg (depending on canned tomatoes and toppings)
Carbohydrates: 50-60g
Fiber: 5-7g
Sugar: 10-15g

Important Considerations:

Cheese: The type and amount of cheese significantly impact the fat and calorie content. Using part-skim mozzarella and reducing the amount of cheese can lower these values.
Toppings: Meaty toppings like pepperoni and sausage will increase the fat and calorie content, while vegetable toppings will generally lower them and increase fiber and vitamins.
Gnocchi: The type of gnocchi (potato, spinach, etc.) can slightly affect the carbohydrate and calorie content.
Serving Size: These values are based on an estimated serving size. Actual serving sizes can vary, impacting the nutritional intake.

For more precise nutritional information, you can use online nutritional calculators and input the specific brands and quantities of ingredients you use in your recipe.

Preparation Time

From pantry to plate, Pizza Gnocchi is a remarkably quick and easy meal, perfect for busy weeknights or when you want a delicious dinner without spending hours in the kitchen.

Prep time: 15-20 minutes (This includes chopping onions, mincing garlic, prepping toppings, and gathering ingredients.)
Cook time: 25-30 minutes (This includes simmering the sauce and baking the gnocchi.)
Total time: 40-50 minutes

This streamlined preparation makes Pizza Gnocchi an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner. Most of the time is hands-off baking time, allowing you to relax or tackle other tasks while dinner cooks itself in the oven. The quick prep and cook times make it a fantastic option when you crave comfort food but are short on time.

How to Serve

Pizza Gnocchi is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to make your meal even more delightful:

Classic Comfort: Serve it straight from the oven in the skillet or baking dish for a rustic, family-style meal. Let everyone scoop out their own portions and enjoy the bubbling hot cheesy goodness.
Side Salad: Pair Pizza Gnocchi with a fresh and crisp side salad. A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi bake. Consider adding cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and bell peppers to your salad for extra flavor and nutrients.
Garlic Bread: For a truly indulgent Italian-American feast, serve Pizza Gnocchi with warm, crusty garlic bread. The garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any extra pizza sauce and adds another layer of comforting flavor to the meal.
Vegetable Sides: Complement the Pizza Gnocchi with roasted or steamed vegetables. Broccoli, asparagus, green beans, or Brussels sprouts are excellent choices that add fiber and vitamins to your meal. Roasting vegetables brings out their natural sweetness and pairs beautifully with the savory gnocchi bake.
Wine Pairing: Enhance your dining experience by pairing Pizza Gnocchi with a complementary wine. A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti, Sangiovese, or a light-bodied Pinot Noir would pair well with the tomato-based sauce and cheesy flavors. For white wine lovers, a crisp Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc could also be a refreshing choice.
Dessert Follow-up: After enjoying your Pizza Gnocchi, complete your meal with a light and refreshing dessert. Italian classics like Tiramisu, Cannoli, or a simple scoop of gelato or sorbetto would be perfect endings to this satisfying meal.

Additional Tips

To ensure your Pizza Gnocchi is a resounding success every time, here are five helpful tips to keep in mind:

Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly, and overcooking can make it mushy. Follow package directions for boiling if you choose to pre-boil (though this recipe doesn’t require it). In the oven, they just need to heat through and absorb some sauce. Keep an eye on them and avoid baking for too long.
Customize Your Sauce: Feel free to adjust the pizza sauce to your liking. Add a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, a bay leaf while simmering for extra depth, or a splash of balsamic vinegar for a touch of tanginess. Taste and adjust seasoning as you go to create your perfect sauce.
Pre-cook Hearty Toppings: If you’re using raw meats like sausage or ground beef, be sure to cook them thoroughly before adding them to the Pizza Gnocchi. This ensures they are cooked through and safe to eat. Vegetables like onions and peppers can be sautéed lightly for softer texture and enhanced flavor before baking.
Cheese Distribution is Key: Ensure the shredded mozzarella cheese is evenly distributed over the gnocchi and sauce. This will create a uniform layer of melted cheese and prevent any dry spots. Don’t be shy with the cheese – it’s what makes it pizza-like!
Make it Ahead (Partially): You can prepare the pizza sauce ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days. When you’re ready to make the Pizza Gnocchi, simply reheat the sauce, add the gnocchi and toppings, and bake. This is a great time-saving tip for busy weeknights.

FAQ

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Pizza Gnocchi to help you troubleshoot and perfect your dish:

Q1: Can I use frozen gnocchi?
A: Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. There’s no need to thaw it beforehand. Simply add it directly to the sauce and bake as directed. Frozen gnocchi may take slightly longer to heat through, so you might need to add a few extra minutes to the baking time.

Q2: Can I make this vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Pizza Gnocchi is easily adaptable for vegetarians. Simply omit any meat toppings and load up on your favorite vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, onions, olives, spinach, zucchini, or artichoke hearts. You can also add vegetarian sausage crumbles for a protein boost.

Q3: Can I make this vegan?
A: Yes, with a few substitutions. Use vegan gnocchi (check the ingredients as some gnocchi may contain eggs or dairy). Substitute the mozzarella cheese with your favorite vegan shredded mozzarella alternative. Ensure your chosen toppings are also vegan-friendly. The sauce itself is naturally vegan.

Q4: Can I add different cheeses?
A: Definitely! Feel free to experiment with different cheeses to customize the flavor. Provolone, Parmesan, Fontina, or a blend of Italian cheeses would all be delicious additions or substitutions for mozzarella. Consider using a combination of cheeses for a more complex flavor profile.

Q5: Can I double the recipe?
A: Yes, you can easily double or even triple this recipe to feed a larger crowd. If doubling or tripling, you may need to use a larger oven-safe skillet or divide the mixture between two baking dishes. Keep in mind that baking time may slightly increase when cooking larger quantities. Ensure the gnocchi is heated through and the cheese is melted and bubbly.