Baked Gnocchi and Meatballs Casserole

This comforting casserole combines tender gnocchi, juicy meatballs, and a rich tomato sauce, all smothered with melted cheese and baked until bubbling and golden. It’s the ultimate one-dish meal for cozy dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This baked gnocchi and meatball casserole is hearty, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s a crowd-pleaser that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum comfort. Whether using homemade or store-bought meatballs, this recipe brings Italian-inspired flavor to your table in under an hour.

ingredients

potato gnocchi (fresh or shelf-stable)
cooked meatballs (homemade or pre-cooked)
marinara or tomato basil sauce
shredded mozzarella cheese
Parmesan cheese
olive oil
garlic, minced
fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
salt and pepper

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

directions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet, heat a bit of olive oil and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add the marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the gnocchi and meatballs. Cook for another 2–3 minutes until everything is warmed through and coated in sauce.
4. Transfer mixture to a greased baking dish. Top generously with mozzarella and Parmesan.
5. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Broil for 2–3 minutes for a golden top, if desired.
7. Let rest for 5 minutes, then garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

Servings and timing

Serves: 4–6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30–35 minutes
Total time: ~45 minutes

Variations

• Spicy version: Add red pepper flakes or spicy Italian sausage to the sauce.
• Cheese swap: Use provolone or ricotta for extra creaminess.
• Vegetarian: Use plant-based meatballs or sautéed mushrooms.
• Creamy twist: Add a splash of cream or mascarpone to the tomato sauce.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F or microwave individual portions. The dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months — thaw overnight before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, thaw first if frozen. Shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi also work well.

Do I need to boil the gnocchi first?

No, it cooks in the sauce during baking and becomes tender and flavorful.

Can I use homemade meatballs?

Absolutely — just ensure they are fully cooked before baking in the casserole.

Is this dish gluten-free?

Use gluten-free gnocchi and meatballs to make it gluten-free.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, assemble and refrigerate up to 24 hours in advance. Bake just before serving.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Bake uncovered, but if the cheese browns too quickly, loosely cover with foil.

What kind of sauce is best?

A simple marinara or tomato basil sauce works well. Homemade or jarred are both fine.

Can I add vegetables?

Yes — spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini make great additions.

Can I use other pasta instead of gnocchi?

You can, but the baking time and texture may vary. Gnocchi offers a soft, pillowy result.

What should I serve with this dish?

A crisp green salad and garlic bread complement it beautifully.

Conclusion

This baked gnocchi and meatball casserole is the definition of comfort food: rich, cheesy, and full of satisfying textures and flavors. It’s a fantastic way to feed a family or impress guests with minimal effort.

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