The aroma of Gnocchi Sorrento wafts through the air, dancing like a happy little pasta fairy, promising a mouthful of cheesy goodness and tomato bliss. Imagine sinking your fork into tender gnocchi, enveloped in rich marinara sauce, topped with bubbling mozzarella that stretches to the heavens. Sounds divine, right? Well, buckle up because we’re about to embark on a culinary journey that turns simple ingredients into an unforgettable dish.
Every time I make Gnocchi Sorrento, I’m reminded of that one dinner party where I confidently proclaimed my cooking prowess. Spoiler alert: I burnt the garlic bread! But when it came to this dish, the gnocchi stole the show. Friends were raving about it like it was the best thing since sliced bread (which I also managed to burn). Whether you’re throwing a fancy dinner or just treating yourself on a quiet night in, this recipe is your ticket to gourmet heaven.
Why You'll Love This Gnocchi Sorrento
- This incredible Gnocchi Sorrento transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
- Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
- Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
- Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.
What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Gnocchi Sorrento:
- Potato Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi saves time and gives you a fluffy texture that homemade versions would envy.
- Olive Oil: A drizzle of good quality olive oil enhances the flavor and keeps everything from sticking together.
- Fresh Garlic: Use minced fresh garlic for its robust flavor; it’s like a hug in a bowl.
- Canned Crushed Tomatoes: Opt for San Marzano tomatoes if you want to elevate your sauce game; they are sweet and less acidic.
- Fresh Basil: Chopped basil adds a pop of freshness—like summer vacation in every bite!
- Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is ideal here; it’s creamy and melts beautifully over the gnocchi.
For the Sauce:
- Parmesan Cheese: Grated parmesan brings salty depth—just be ready for everyone to ask if they can have seconds on cheese!
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Cooking Instructions
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Gnocchi Sorrento:
Step 1: Preheat Your Oven
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial because we want our cheesy goodness bubbling away by the time we finish prepping!
Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi
In a large pot of boiling salted water, add your potato gnocchi. Cook them according to package instructions until they float—about 2-3 minutes. Once they float like little happy clouds, drain them and set aside.
Step 3: Prepare the Sauce
In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and minced garlic. Sauté until fragrant—about one minute or until your kitchen smells like an Italian restaurant during peak hours!
Step 4: Add Tomatoes
Pour in crushed tomatoes and bring them to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, pepper, and half of your fresh basil. Let this simmer away for about ten minutes while you daydream about all those Italian vacations you plan on taking someday.
Step 5: Combine Everything
Add cooked gnocchi gently into the sauce mixture and stir well so every piece gets coated in that luscious tomato sauce. Transfer everything into an oven-safe baking dish.
Step 6: Top It Off
Top with shredded mozzarella and sprinkle with remaining basil and grated parmesan cheese. Bake in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes or until it’s bubbly and golden brown on top.
Transfer to plates and drizzle with more olive oil if you’re feeling fancy for the perfect finishing touch!
And there you have it! A plate of Gnocchi Sorrento that’s not just food but an experience filled with laughter, love, and maybe even some burnt garlic bread stories! Enjoy every cheesy bite as you revel in your culinary triumph!

You Must Know About Gnocchi Sorrento
- This showstopping Gnocchi Sorrento delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
- The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
- Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
- Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.
Perfecting Cooking Process
Start by boiling the gnocchi until they float, indicating they’re ready to join the party. Meanwhile, prepare a luscious tomato sauce and toss in fresh basil. Finish by combining everything in a baking dish with cheese on top for that gooey goodness.
Flavor Your Way
Feel free to customize your Gnocchi Sorrento! Swap out the tomato sauce for pesto, add sautéed vegetables like spinach or zucchini, or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick. The world is your oyster!
Storing & Reheating
To store leftover Gnocchi Sorrento, place it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist and delicious.
Chef's Helpful Tips for Gnocchi Sorrento
- This professional-quality Gnocchi Sorrento relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
- Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
- The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
- Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.
Sometimes I whip up Gnocchi Sorrento for friends, and their eyes light up like Christmas morning when they take that first bite. Hearing them rave about it warms my heart more than any oven could!

FAQs
What is Gnocchi Sorrento?
Gnocchi Sorrento is a delightful Italian dish that features potato gnocchi baked in a rich tomato sauce and topped with melted cheese. Originating from the Sorrento region of Italy, this dish combines the soft texture of gnocchi with the robust flavor of fresh tomatoes. The dish often includes ingredients like basil and mozzarella, which enhance its aromatic profile. Suitable for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, Gnocchi Sorrento is beloved for its comforting taste and hearty nature.
How do I make Gnocchi Sorrento at home?
Making Gnocchi Sorrento at home is straightforward and rewarding. Start by preparing your gnocchi, either homemade or store-bought. Next, cook a simple tomato sauce using fresh tomatoes, garlic, and basil. Combine the cooked gnocchi with the sauce in a baking dish. Top with generous amounts of mozzarella cheese before baking until bubbly and golden. This homemade version retains all the traditional flavors while allowing you to customize it to your liking.
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for Gnocchi Sorrento?
Absolutely! Using store-bought gnocchi is a great time-saver when making Gnocchi Sorrento. Many grocery stores offer high-quality options that cook quickly and taste delicious. Just ensure to follow the package instructions for cooking before adding them to your sauce. Store-bought gnocchi can create a quick yet satisfying meal without compromising on flavor or authenticity.
What can I serve with Gnocchi Sorrento?
Gnocchi Sorrento pairs wonderfully with various side dishes. A fresh green salad tossed with vinaigrette complements its richness perfectly. You might also consider serving garlic bread to soak up the sumptuous sauce. For an added touch, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese over the top enhances the overall flavor profile while adding a touch of elegance to your meal.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Gnocchi Sorrento is an exquisite Italian dish that combines fluffy potato dumplings with a savory tomato sauce and melted cheese. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers comfort and warmth in every bite. Whether you choose to make it from scratch or use store-bought ingredients, this dish promises satisfaction for all who enjoy it. Embrace the flavors of Italy by trying Gnocchi Sorrento at your next dinner gathering!
Gnocchi Sorrento
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Gnocchi Sorrento is a delightful Italian dish that marries fluffy potato gnocchi with a rich tomato sauce and gooey melted mozzarella cheese. Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions, this recipe promises an explosion of flavors in every bite. With its vibrant colors and comforting taste, Gnocchi Sorrento is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will leave your guests asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1 can (28 oz) crushed San Marzano tomatoes
- 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- In boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi until they float (about 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.
- In a skillet over medium heat, add olive oil and garlic; sauté until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Stir in crushed tomatoes, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 10 minutes. Add half of the basil.
- Combine cooked gnocchi with the sauce in an oven-safe dish.
- Top with mozzarella and remaining basil; sprinkle with parmesan cheese. Bake for 20 minutes until bubbly.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 650mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg





