Description
A delicious casserole featuring gnocchi, marinara sauce, mozzarella cheese, and pepperoni, baked to perfection.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
- 2 cups marinara sauce
- 1 ½ cups mozzarella cheese, shredded
- 1 cup pepperoni slices
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Prepare the Gnocchi: In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Cook the Garlic and Sauce: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Add marinara sauce and stir in dried Italian herbs and red pepper flakes. Simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Combine: Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce and gently mix until the gnocchi is well coated. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Assemble the Casserole: In a baking dish, spread half of the gnocchi mixture. Sprinkle with half of the mozzarella cheese and place half of the pepperoni slices on top. Repeat the layering with the remaining gnocchi, mozzarella, and pepperoni.
- Bake: Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake uncovered for an additional 10 minutes, until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the oven and let the casserole sit for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
- Cheese Options: Feel free to experiment with different types of cheese like provolone or gouda for a unique flavor.
- Pepperoni Alternative: Try using turkey pepperoni or a vegetarian version for a lighter dish.
- Make Ahead: This casserole can be assembled in advance and stored in the refrigerator. Just bake it when you’re ready to enjoy!
- Spice Level: Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving