Best Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe (Baked Gnocchi) (2024)

Cucina by Elena Recipe Index Classic Italian Recipes

By Elena

Sep 11, 2023, Updated Jan 26, 2024

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5 from 5 reviews

Best Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe– is pure Italian comfort food. Originating from the sun-kissed Sorrento region (Amalfi Coast), this dish combines pillowy gnocchi, a rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds!

What to Serve with Gnocchi for side ideas.

Best Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe (Baked Gnocchi) (2)

It’s a traditional Italian dish I grew up eating all year. This Sorrento-style gnocchi dish makes a quick dinner to bring the whole family to the table. The perfectly soft gnocchi get nestled in the delicious tomato sauce, layered with mozzarella cheese, and baked until bubbly and irresistible.

You can use my homemade potato gnocchi recipe for a more traditional Italian dish. This recipe guide walks you through the recipe.

Making homemade gnocchi takes more time and effort, but it is worth the labor of love! You can still make delicious baked gnocchi with the store-bought gnocchi variety. This is an original family recipe. Buon appetito!

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Table of Contents

  • Simple Ingredients
  • How to Make Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe Step-by-Step Photos
  • Variations
  • Equipment
  • How to Store
  • Top tips
  • FAQs
  • More Gnocchi Recipes
  • What to Serve with Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina
  • Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe Recipe

Simple Ingredients

I highly recommend using high-quality ingredients to create the best gnocchi sorrentina recipe! A few good quality ingredients go a long way to make this an outstanding meal with the best results.

Best Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe (Baked Gnocchi) (4)
  • Potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
  • Salt (for boiling water)
  • San Marzano tomatoes (or canned cherry tomatoes or tomato puree -passata)
  • Fresh garlic cloves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Extra-virgin olive oil
  • Fresh basil leaves (about 8-10)
  • Mozzarella cheese from a block, cut into cubes (or shredded). I dislike using fresh mozzarella for this recipe because the water content can make the dish too wet.
  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese or pecorino cheese
  • Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

See the recipe card for quantities.

How to Make Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe Step-by-Step Photos

Best Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe (Baked Gnocchi) (5)

Preheat your oven to 350°F.
Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet or oven-safe baking dish. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.

Best Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe (Baked Gnocchi) (6)

Pour in the crushed tomatoes or tomato passata, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Best Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe (Baked Gnocchi) (7)

Stir in basil leaves during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
Boil the Gnocchi: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt to the boiling water and cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions or until they float to the surface. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

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Combine Gnocchi and Tomato Sauce: Once cooked, remove the gnocchi with a slotted spoon and add to the prepared tomato sauce. Gently stir to coat the gnocchi with the sauce.

Best Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe (Baked Gnocchi) (9)

Assemble the Dish: Spread half of the gnocchi and tomato sauce mixture in a baking dish (Option: you can bake the gnocchi in the same oven safe pan). Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and grated parmigiano cheese over the gnocchi. Add a few torn basil leaves for extra flavor.

Best Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe (Baked Gnocchi) (10)

Layer and Bake: Add the remaining gnocchi and sauce mixture to the cheese layer. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and parmigiano cheese over the top.

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Bake in the Oven: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly golden brown.

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Serve: Remove it from the oven once the gnocchi alla Sorrentina is baked to perfection. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for a fresh and aromatic touch. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Variations

  • Spinach and Ricotta: Add sautéed spinach and creamy ricotta cheese to the tomato sauce for a vibrant and flavorful twist.
  • Mushroom Medley: Sauté a mix of mushrooms and incorporate them into the sauce for an earthy and savory flavor profile.
  • Pesto Swirl: Drizzle pesto over the baked gnocchi before serving to add a burst of fresh basil and nutty flavors.
  • Four Cheese Delight: Experiment with a blend of your favorite cheeses, such as fontina, gorgonzola, and provolone, for a rich and decadent version.
  • Creamy Tomato Twist: Combine a portion of cream with the tomato sauce for a creamy and luscious variation.
  • Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chopped fresh chili for a touch of heat that balances the dish’s richness.
  • Mediterranean Flair: Top the dish with sliced black olives, sun-dried tomatoes, and feta cheese for a Mediterranean-inspired creation.
Best Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe (Baked Gnocchi) (13)

Equipment

How to Store

To store Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, let the dish cool down to room temperature. Cover the baking dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil and refrigerate for up to 2-3 days.

You can warm individual portions in the microwave or reheat the entire dish in the oven until heated.

Best Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe (Baked Gnocchi) (14)

Top tips

Top tips for the best-baked gnocchi recipe:

  • Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality gnocchi, canned tomatoes, and flavorful cheeses like mozzarella and parmigiano for the best results.
  • Properly Cook Gnocchi: Cook the gnocchi just until they float to the surface of boiling water. Overcooking can result in mushy gnocchi.
  • Season the Sauce Well: Don’t skimp on seasoning the tomato sauce. Garlic, basil, salt, and pepper should be balanced to enhance the flavors.
  • Layering Technique: Layer the gnocchi and sauce evenly in the baking dish to ensure consistent flavors.
  • Fresh Basil Garnish: Use fresh basil leaves for garnish right before serving. Their aroma and flavor will elevate the dish.
  • Even Cheese Distribution: Spread cheese evenly to cover the top layer of gnocchi. This ensures every bite has a delightful cheese pull.
  • Share the Love: Enjoy the dish with family and friends. Italian cuisine is all about sharing delightful moments around the table!

FAQs

What is the meaning of Sorrentina?

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina gets its name from the Italian region of Sorrento. Sorrento is a picturesque coastal town located in the Campania region of southern Italy, known for its stunning views of the Bay of Naples and the Amalfi Coast. The dish is believed to have originated in this region, so it’s named “alla Sorrentina,” meaning “in the style of Sorrento.”

How do I prevent the gnocchi from becoming mushy?

To avoid overcooking the gnocchi, make sure to follow the cooking time indicated on the package or until the gnocchi float to the surface. Overcooking can lead to mushiness.

What is Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina?

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a traditional Italian dish hailing from the Sorrento region. It features soft potato gnocchi and a rich tomato sauce, typically seasoned with garlic and basil. The dish is baked with a layer of mozzarella and parmigiano cheese on top until bubbly and golden. This recipe is the best!

Can I make Gnocchi alla Sorrentina ahead of time?

Yes, you can assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking. When ready to enjoy it, bake until the cheese is melted and bubbly.

Best Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe (Baked Gnocchi) (15)

Looking for other recipes like this? Try these:

  • Homemade Authentic Italian Potato Gnocchi Recipe
  • Gnocchi in Creamy Red Pepper Sauce
  • Gnocchi in Garlic and Brown Butter Sage Sauce

What to Serve with Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina

Enjoy these recipes with your dish:

  • Easy Baked Chicken Leg Quarters Recipe (Juicy!)
  • Easy Oven Baked Salmon Steaks Recipe (Healthy)
  • Avgolemono Soup Recipe (Greek Lemon Chicken Rice)
  • What to Serve with Lamb (55+ Best Side Dishes)

Make sure to leave a⭐️star ratingon the recipe card and comment below if you make the recipe. I love to connect with you through my recipes.

I would love for you to tag me on Instagram@cucinabyelena so I can see your delicious Italian recipes. To get more ideas,follow me on Pinterest.

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Best Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe (Baked Gnocchi) (23)

Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe

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5 from 5 reviews

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Best Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina Recipe– is pure Italian comfort food. Originating from the sun-kissed Sorrento region (Amalfi Coast), this dish combines pillowy gnocchi, a rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted cheese. It’s like a warm hug for your taste buds!

  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 46 servings 1x

Ingredients

UnitsScale

For the Gnocchi:

  • 1 1/2 lb (about 700 grams) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
  • Salt (for boiling water)

For the Tomato Sauce:

  • 28 oz can San Marzano crushed tomatoes (or canned cherry tomatoes or tomato passata)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoon olive oil
  • Fresh basil leaves (about 8-10)

Assembly:

  • 1 1/2 cups mozzarella cheese from a block, cut into cubes (or shredded). I dislike using fresh mozzarella cheese for this recipe because the water content can make the dish too wet.
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmigiano cheese

Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
  2. Prepare the Tomato Sauce: Heat the olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet or oven-safe baking dish. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Pour in the crushed tomatoes or tomato passata, salt, and pepper. Stir well and let the sauce simmer for about 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. Stir in basil leaves during last 5 minutes of cooking.
  3. Boil the Gnocchi: In a large pot, bring water to a boil. Add salt to the boiling water and cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions or until they float to the surface. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
  4. Combine Gnocchi and Tomato Sauce: Once cooked, remove the gnocchi with a slotted spoon and add to the prepared tomato sauce. Gently stir to coat the gnocchi with the sauce.
  5. Assemble the Dish: Spread half of the gnocchi and tomato sauce mixture in a baking dish (Option: you can bake the gnocchi in the same oven safe pan). Sprinkle half of the mozzarella and grated parmigiano cheese over the gnocchi. Add a few torn basil leaves for extra flavor.
  6. Layer and Bake: Add the remaining gnocchi and sauce mixture to the cheese layer. Sprinkle the rest of the mozzarella and parmigiano cheese over the top.
  7. Bake in the Oven: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly and the edges are slightly golden brown.
  8. Serve: Remove it from the oven once the gnocchi alla Sorrentina is baked to perfection. Garnish with additional fresh basil leaves for a fresh and aromatic touch. Serve hot, and enjoy!

Notes

Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality gnocchi, fresh tomato passata, and flavorful cheeses like mozzarella and Parmesan for the best results.

Properly Cook Gnocchi: Cook the gnocchi just until they float to the surface of boiling water. Overcooking can result in mushy gnocchi.

Season the Sauce Well: Don’t skimp on seasoning the tomato sauce. Garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper should be balanced to enhance the flavors.

Layering Technique: Layer the gnocchi and sauce evenly in the baking dish to ensure consistent flavors throughout the dish.

Fresh Basil Garnish: Use fresh basil leaves for garnish right before serving. Their aroma and flavor will elevate the dish.

Even Cheese Distribution: Spread cheese evenly to cover the top layer of gnocchi. This ensures every bite has a delightful cheese pull.

Preheat the Oven: Make sure the oven is properly preheated to ensure even baking and proper melting of the cheese.

Rest Before Serving: Allow the dish to rest for a few minutes after baking. This helps the flavors meld and makes it easier to serve.

Experiment with Cheese: While mozzarella and Parmesan are traditional, you can try other melting cheeses to add your unique twist.

Share the Love: Enjoy the dish with family and friends. Italian cuisine is all about sharing delightful moments around the table!

  • Author: Elena
  • Prep Time: 10 min
  • Cook Time: 30-35 minutes
  • Category: Savory
  • Method: Italian
  • Cuisine: Italian

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