Vodka Sauce Baked Gnocchi is comfort food elevated to a new level, combining pillowy gnocchi with a rich, creamy tomato vodka sauce and a golden baked topping. This dish strikes the perfect balance between indulgent flavors and cozy, home-style cooking, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Its vibrant colors and inviting aroma instantly signal a meal that’s both satisfying and memorable.
The heart of the dish is the vodka sauce itself. Made from a blend of tomatoes, cream, garlic, onions, and a splash of vodka, the sauce is silky and full of flavor. The vodka helps release subtle notes in the tomatoes, adding depth without an overpowering taste. Cream softens the acidity and creates a luscious texture that clings beautifully to each gnocchi pillow. Fresh basil, a pinch of chili flakes, and a dusting of Parmesan can elevate the sauce further, creating layers of flavor in every bite.
Baking the gnocchi in the sauce adds another dimension. The heat melds the flavors together, while the top layer develops a light golden crust, giving a delightful contrast between the creamy sauce underneath and the slightly crisp topping. Gnocchi, whether homemade or store-bought, should be cooked just until tender before baking to ensure they don’t turn mushy. This careful step preserves their soft, pillowy texture, which is key to the dish’s comfort-food appeal.
Vodka Sauce Baked Gnocchi is not only flavorful but also versatile. It can be served as a hearty main course or alongside a fresh green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal. A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red such as Chianti pairs beautifully with the creamy tomato sauce, enhancing its richness without overpowering it.
This dish is perfect for anyone who loves Italian flavors with a creamy, indulgent twist. The combination of tender gnocchi, rich vodka sauce, and a lightly baked top makes every forkful comforting and delicious. It’s the kind of meal that brings warmth and satisfaction, perfect for sharing with family and friends around the table.
Ingredients
- 500 grams gnocchi store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup vodka sauce store-bought or homemade
- 1 cup mozzarella cheese shredded
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese grated
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 clove garlic minced
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- to taste salt and pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil chopped, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, and sauté until fragrant.
- Add the vodka sauce to the skillet and bring it to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Add the gnocchi to the sauce and stir to coat evenly.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven, and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let it cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh chopped basil and serve warm.
Nutrition
This looks amazing! Can’t wait to try it this weekend. 😍
Vodka in food? Sounds a bit weird… but okay. 🤷♂️
I made it and my kids loved it! Super cheesy and delicious. Will make again!
So easy! I didn’t have basil so I used parsley. Still turned out great. 🥳
Isn’t gnocchi supposed to be boiled first? I feel like that might be a mistake.
Baked gnocchi? Are you sure that’s not just pasta? lol!
Haha, no way! Gnocchi is definitely different than pasta, it’s made with potatoes! Give it a try, it’s super tasty!
OMG, this dish is a game changer! 🥰
Totally agree! I tried it last night and my family loved it! 🥳
Looks good, but isn’t vodka sauce overrated? I mean, what’s the big deal? 🤔
Mine took longer than 30 mins to bake. Also, I think I need more sauce next time.