Romantic Baked Gnocchi with Burrata

Name: Romantic Baked Gnocchi with Burrata
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 2 servings
Ingredients: 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 ball (8 oz) burrata cheese; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Easy Baking Inspiration

When I first tried making baked gnocchi with burrata, I was captivated by how the creamy cheese melted into the pasta, creating a rich and satisfying dish. This recipe is a perfect blend of comforting flavors and textures that can elevate any dinner date. I love how the sauce bubbles and browns in the oven, giving the gnocchi a deliciously crispy top while remaining soft and cheesy inside. Prepare to impress your loved one with this delightful meal that’s just as easy to make as it is to enjoy!

Created by

Grace Walker

Last updated on 2026-01-06T11:45:34.996Z

Preparing this dish was an experiment that turned into one of my favorites. I wasn't sure how well the burrata would work baked, but after the first bite, I knew I had struck gold. The creamy texture of the cheese enhances the gnocchi, making every forkful a delightful experience.

I discovered that broiling the gnocchi for the last few moments adds a delicious touch, giving that golden crispiness on top. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in flavor and presentation, perfect for impressing that special someone!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Heavenly gooeyness from melted burrata cheese
Comforting pasta paired with a hint of garlic and herbs
Perfectly baked for a touch of elegance and delight

      

Mastering the Gnocchi

Cooking gnocchi can be a simple yet rewarding process when done right. Make sure to use salted water that resembles the ocean for boiling your gnocchi. This salt not only flavors the pasta but helps in achieving that perfect texture. Once they float to the surface, they are done—usually within 2 to 3 minutes. Be sure to drain them immediately to prevent overcooking and becoming mushy.

After draining, let the gnocchi sit for a few minutes to allow excess moisture to evaporate. If you're concerned about sticking, a drizzle of olive oil will help keep them separate. This step is especially crucial before combining with the sauce to maintain the gnocchi's integrity.

Perfecting the Sauce

The sauce for this baked gnocchi is a delightful blend of crushed tomatoes and aromatic garlic. It’s crucial to sauté the garlic until it's just fragrant—overcooking can lead to bitterness. Once you add the crushed tomatoes, allow the sauce to simmer for 5 minutes until it thickens slightly and melds the flavors. This technique ensures a robust taste and helps coat the gnocchi beautifully.

If you want to amp up the flavor, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers. This addition can introduce deeper notes to the dish. Additionally, substituting dried oregano with fresh herbs like thyme or basil can elevate the overall taste profile significantly.

Serving and Storage Tips

For the ultimate presentation, serve your baked gnocchi in individual ramekins—this adds a touch of elegance and makes for an eye-catching dish. To reheat leftovers, simply place them in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for about 10-15 minutes. Adding a splash of olive oil or a little extra cheese before reheating will help keep the gnocchi from drying out.

If you're making this dish in advance, you can prepare the sauce and gnocchi ahead of time. Store each component separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. When ready to bake, combine them in a dish, top with burrata, and proceed with baking as instructed for a quick, impressive meal that's as good as fresh.

Ingredients

Gnocchi and Sauce

1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper, to taste
1 ball (8 oz) burrata cheese
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Ensure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Steps

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to prepare for baking the gnocchi.

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper, and let it simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine and Bake

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently mix until coated with the sauce. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top it with the burrata, and bake for 15 minutes or until bubbly.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and enjoy your romantic meal!

Feel free to adjust the seasonings to your liking!

Pro Tips

For a little kick, add red pepper flakes to the sauce. Serve with a side salad for a complete meal!

Ingredient Insights

Burrata is the star of this recipe, providing a creamy texture that enhances the overall dish. When it melts during baking, it creates pockets of indulgent, gooey cheese that envelops the gnocchi. If you can’t find burrata, you might substitute fresh mozzarella, but be aware it won't provide the same luxurious creaminess.

The choice of tomatoes is also critical; opt for high-quality crushed tomatoes for the best flavor. If you want a homemade touch, consider roasting fresh tomatoes before blending them into a sauce, which will add a natural sweetness and depth.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If your gnocchi turns out gummy, it’s crucial to follow the cooking instructions closely. Avoid letting them sit in the boiling water longer than necessary. If you're still finding issues, try reducing the amount of moisture in your sauce slightly before baking.

For those who find the top of their baked gnocchi lacks that inviting golden finish, consider placing it under the broiler for a minute or two at the end of baking. Just keep a close eye on it to prevent burning, and rotate the dish to achieve even browning.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi will work perfectly in this recipe.

→ What can I substitute for burrata?

If burrata isn’t available, you can use fresh mozzarella for a similar effect.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi and sauce ahead. Just assemble and bake when ready to serve.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

I don’t recommend freezing this dish as the texture of the gnocchi may change when thawed.