Name: Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 cups grape tomatoes; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 tsp sugar; 1 tsp salt (or to taste); 1/2 tsp black pepper; 2 cups pureed tomatoes; 1/4 cup water; 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning; 2 cloves fresh garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, gently packed; 1 cup fresh mozzarella pearls; 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade); 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe delivers a classic Italian flavor profile with minimal effort. The roasted grape tomatoes deepen the sauce’s sweetness, while the combination of fresh basil and mozzarella gives it a fresh yet indulgent finish. Plus, it’s made in a single baking dish—meaning fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your meal.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Grape tomatoes
Olive oil
Sugar
Salt
Black pepper
Pureed tomatoes
Water
Dried Italian seasoning
Fresh garlic, minced
Fresh basil leaves, gently packed
Fresh mozzarella pearls
Potato gnocchi
Fresh mozzarella, sliced

Directions

Preheat the oven to 425°F (218°C).
Place grape tomatoes in a 9×13-inch baking dish, toss with olive oil, and roast until skins split and blister. Remove from oven and reduce temperature to 375°F (190°C).
In a bowl, combine pureed tomatoes with sugar, salt, and pepper. Pour over roasted tomatoes in the baking dish.
Add water, Italian seasoning, garlic, basil, mozzarella pearls, and gnocchi to the dish. Stir until evenly combined.
Arrange slices of fresh mozzarella on top.
Bake until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese is golden brown. Serve hot.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4
Prep time: 5 minutes
Cook time: 45 minutes
Total time: 50 minutes

Variations

Add cooked Italian sausage or shredded rotisserie chicken for extra protein.
Use spinach or arugula in place of basil for a different green flavor.
Swap grape tomatoes for cherry tomatoes or diced fresh tomatoes.
Try smoked mozzarella or provolone for a bolder flavor.
Use gluten-free gnocchi for a wheat-free version.

Storage/Reheating

Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave in short intervals, stirring halfway. For longer storage, freeze before baking, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator and bake as directed.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe.

Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes, assemble the dish without baking, refrigerate up to 24 hours, then bake when ready to serve.

Do I need to cook the gnocchi before baking?

No, the gnocchi cooks directly in the sauce while baking.

Can I use shredded mozzarella instead of fresh?

Yes, but fresh mozzarella melts creamier and gives a more authentic texture.

What can I serve with Gnocchi alla Sorrentina?

It pairs well with a simple green salad and crusty bread.

Can I make it vegetarian?

This recipe is naturally vegetarian, just be sure your gnocchi does not contain animal-derived ingredients.

Can I add more vegetables?

Yes, sautéed zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers make great additions.

Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, freeze before baking for best results.

Can I make it spicier?

Add crushed red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a little heat.

How do I prevent the cheese from over-browning?

Cover loosely with foil during baking if the cheese is browning too quickly.

Conclusion

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a rustic, flavorful Italian classic that’s as easy to prepare as it is satisfying to eat. With tender gnocchi, rich tomato sauce, fresh basil, and gooey mozzarella, it’s a comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion—from weeknight dinners to special gatherings.