Valentine Gnocchi Bake

Name: Valentine Gnocchi Bake
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi; 2 cups marinara sauce; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Favorites

I absolutely love making this Valentine's Gnocchi Bake to celebrate the day. It combines tender gnocchi with rich tomato sauce and gooey cheese, making it the perfect comfort food. I find that the freshness of herbs and a hint of garlic elevate the dish to something truly special. Whether it’s a romantic dinner for two or a cozy gathering with friends, this dish always brings smiles. Plus, it's easy to prepare in under an hour, which makes it a favorite in my kitchen.

Created by

Maeve Colchester

Last updated on 2026-01-08T14:14:36.567Z

This Valentine Gnocchi Bake was born out of my love for hearty, comforting meals. I knew I wanted something that celebrated Valentine's Day without being overly complicated. By utilizing store-bought gnocchi, I cut down on prep time and can focus on layering flavors with fresh ingredients. Lastly, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes adds the perfect kick!

I often experiment by adding seasonal vegetables to the mix, such as spinach or roasted red peppers, to make it even more vibrant. This flexibility means I can tailor the dish to whatever ingredients I have on hand while still impressing my guests every time.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The comforting combination of soft gnocchi and rich tomato sauce
Melty cheese that stretches with every bite
Easy to customize with your favorite vegetables or protein

      

Cooking the Gnocchi Perfectly

Cooking gnocchi requires a keen eye to ensure they reach the perfect texture. As you boil them, you'll notice they begin to float to the top after about 2-3 minutes, signaling that they're nearly done. If you accidentally overcook them, they can become mushy. Keep a close watch and use a slotted spoon to remove them as soon as they rise and start to puff slightly; this ensures they maintain their delectable pillowy structure.

For a unique twist, consider using homemade gnocchi if you have the time. While store-bought gnocchi is convenient, homemade varieties often provide a delightful texture and flavor. You can make a basic potato gnocchi using just potatoes, flour, and eggs. This minor effort can elevate your dish beyond the ordinary and add a personal touch.

Enhancing the Sauce

The sauce is crucial in balancing the rich flavors of this dish. When sautéing the garlic, be careful not to let it brown too much, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter taste. Cooking it just until fragrant, about 30 seconds, will help highlight its fresh flavor. Additionally, you can enhance the sauce's depth by adding a splash of red wine or a teaspoon of sugar to cut the acidity of the marinara sauce.

Don't hesitate to experiment with the base of the sauce. Adding chopped sun-dried tomatoes or a handful of fresh spinach not only infuses the dish with color but also introduces new flavors and nutrients. These additions beautifully complement the cheese and gnocchi, making for a sophisticated yet comforting dinner.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for your Valentine Gnocchi Bake:

Ingredients

1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
2 cups marinara sauce
2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Make sure to have all ingredients prepped for best results!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious Valentine Gnocchi Bake:

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat a bit of olive oil over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the marinara sauce, oregano, and red pepper flakes, stirring to combine.

Combine Ingredients

Pour the gnocchi into a baking dish, then add the sauce and half of the mozzarella cheese. Stir to combine everything evenly.

Bake

Top the casserole with the remaining mozzarella and the grated Parmesan. Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of red wine to the sauce as it simmers. It pairs beautifully with the cheese and brings depth to the dish.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This dish can be prepared ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. Assemble the gnocchi, sauce, and cheese layers in the baking dish, cover tightly with foil, and store it in the fridge. When you're ready to bake, simply remove the foil and pop it in the oven, adding an extra 5 minutes to the cooking time to account for it being chilled.

If you want to store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, bake it covered at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes or until heated through. This method retains the cheese's melty texture and keeps the gnocchi from drying out.

Serving Suggestions

Pair your Valentine Gnocchi Bake with a light side salad to balance the richness of the dish. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the cheesy gnocchi beautifully, adding a refreshing bite. Consider serving it alongside some crusty garlic bread to soak up the delicious sauce and make it a heartier meal.

For an extra touch of romance, serve the gnocchi bake in individual ramekins. This makes for a charming presentation that feels special, perfect for a date night or a small gathering with friends. Top each serving with a sprinkle of fresh basil just before serving to add a pop of color and freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi is a fantastic time-saver for this recipe.

→ What can I substitute for marinara sauce?

You can use any pasta sauce you like, or even a homemade sauce if you prefer.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes! You can freeze the assembled casserole before baking. Just make sure to cover it well.

→ Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian, but you can add veggies like spinach or mushrooms for extra nutrients.