Sheet Pan Gnocchi with Tomatoes and Mozzarella
This sheet pan gnocchi recipe is a fantastic, flavorful sheet pan dinner recipe that simplifies weeknight cooking. You’ll love how easy it is to prepare a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions:
- Pillowy Gnocchi: Use shelf-stable gnocchi for convenience. You can also use fresh gnocchi.
- Cherry Tomatoes: Any small tomatoes work well here.
- Fresh Mozzarella: Small mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) are perfect, or tear larger fresh mozzarella into bite-sized pieces.
- Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the flavors.
- Basil: Fresh basil is key; dried basil won’t give the same vibrant taste.
Ingredients:
- 17.6 oz (500g) package shelf-stable gnocchi
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes, halved
- 8 oz fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), drained and halved if large
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20-25 minutes
- Total Time: 30-35 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools: Large sheet pan
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat and Prepare Your Pan
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large sheet pan with parchment paper for easy cleanup, ensuring enough space for all ingredients to spread in a single layer, which is essential for a great sheet pan dinner recipe.
2. Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the gnocchi, cherry tomatoes, olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Toss everything gently until the gnocchi and tomatoes are evenly coated.
3. Spread on the Sheet Pan
Transfer the seasoned gnocchi and tomatoes to the prepared sheet pan. Spread them out in a single layer. This allows everything to roast evenly and get nicely caramelized.
4. Roast the Gnocchi and Tomatoes
Bake for 15 minutes. After 15 minutes, gently toss the gnocchi and tomatoes on the pan. Continue baking for another 5-10 minutes, or until the gnocchi is golden brown and the tomatoes are softened and bursting.
5. Add Mozzarella and Finish
Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Scatter the fresh mozzarella pieces over the hot gnocchi and tomatoes. Return to the oven for 2-3 minutes, just until the mozzarella is melted and gooey.
6. Garnish and Serve
Carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven. Garnish generously with fresh basil leaves. Serve immediately for a delightful and effortless sheet pan dinner recipe.
Variation Ideas:
- Add Vegetables: Toss in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus with the gnocchi.
- Lemon Zest: Finish with a sprinkle of fresh lemon zest for a bright, zesty flavor.
- Pesto Drizzle: A spoonful of pesto stirred in at the end adds another layer of flavor.
- Protein Boost: Add pre-cooked chicken or chickpeas to the pan during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
Storage Instructions:
Store any leftover sheet pan gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a warm oven until heated through. The gnocchi may lose some of its crispiness when reheated.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this sheet pan dinner recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi, but you might need to add a few extra minutes to the initial roasting time. Do not thaw it first.
Do I need to boil the gnocchi before roasting?
No, that’s the beauty of this sheet pan dinner recipe! The gnocchi cooks directly on the sheet pan, absorbing flavors and getting delightfully crispy.
What kind of tomatoes are best?
Cherry or grape tomatoes are ideal as they burst beautifully when roasted, releasing their juices and creating a sauce.
Can I prepare this meal ahead of time?
You can prep the vegetables and gnocchi, but for the best texture, it’s recommended to toss everything and bake just before serving.
Why is my gnocchi not crispy?
Ensure your oven is fully preheated and you are not overcrowding the sheet pan. Spreading ingredients in a single layer is key for even roasting and crispiness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
While delicious fresh, this sheet pan dinner recipe makes great leftovers. It’s perfect for packing into lunch containers for a quick and easy meal during the week.
