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If you’re craving a cozy, comforting meal that tastes like an Italian grandmother prepared it just for you, this Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce Recipe is going to become your new favorite. Soft, pillowy gnocchi paired with a rich, vibrant marinara sauce brings a beautiful harmony of flavors and textures that’s deceptively simple but utterly satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this dish feels like a warm hug on a plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce Recipe plays an essential role in building layers of flavor, texture, and aroma—simplicity at its finest. From the fragrant garlic and basil to the tangy San Marzano tomatoes, these components come together beautifully to create an unforgettable meal.
- DeLallo Potato & Cheese Gnocchi Kit: The star of the dish, providing that irresistibly fluffy texture and cheesy note.
- Half medium onion (chopped): Adds subtle sweetness and depth when sautéed gently in olive oil.
- 2 tablespoons olive oil: The base that brings everything together with a silky richness.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Boosts the aroma and sharpness that define a great marinara.
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or water: Delivers brightness and lifts the sauce; wine adds extra complexity.
- 1 (28 fluid ounce) can DeLallo San Marzano Style Crushed Tomatoes: These tomatoes are perfect for achieving a perfectly balanced, slightly sweet marinara.
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano: Infuse warm, earthy herbal notes that complement the tomato’s acidity.
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a gentle kick and a touch of heat.
- 3 sprigs fresh basil: Add fresh, fragrant herbal brightness to the sauce as it simmers.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): The finishing seasoning foundation to enhance every flavor in the dish.
- Fresh basil (torn) and freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional): Perfect toppings for an extra burst of flavor and color at serving time.
How to Make Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, then add the chopped onion. Sauté gently for about five minutes until the onion is translucent and starting to sweeten—this step lays the flavorful groundwork of your marinara, ensuring a mild but rich backdrop for the tomatoes.
Step 2: Add garlic
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds, enough to release its wonderful aroma without letting it burn. This quick step intensifies the sauce’s savory character and signals the start of those classic Italian flavors.
Step 3: Build the sauce
Pour in the dry white wine or water, then add the crushed San Marzano tomatoes, dried oregano, and if you like a hint of spice, a pinch of red pepper flakes. Give everything a good stir, then nestle the fresh basil sprigs into the sauce. Lower the heat to low or medium-low and let it gently simmer, uncovered, for about 20 minutes. This slow simmer thickens the sauce and allows the herbs and spices to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Cook the gnocchi
While your sauce is bubbling away, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, which typically takes just a few minutes – they’re done when they float to the surface. This quick cooking time ensures the gnocchi remain tender and pillowy.
Step 5: Final touches
Taste your marinara sauce and remove the basil sprigs. Season with salt and pepper as needed, and if you want to balance any acidity, add a small pinch of sugar. Now, spoon the luscious sauce generously over the cooked gnocchi. For an extra touch of Italian charm, sprinkle torn fresh basil and freshly grated parmesan on top before serving. It’s comfort food done right.
How to Serve Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Torn fresh basil leaves bring a burst of herbal freshness right before serving, while a handful of grated parmesan adds a salty, nutty richness that melts perfectly into the warm sauce. These simple garnishes elevate the dish from homey to restaurant-worthy.
Side Dishes
This Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce Recipe pairs marvelously with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette—something crisp and bright to balance the rich sauce. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is also fantastic for sopping up every last bit of the delicious marinara.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the gnocchi in a rustic shallow bowl and drizzle extra virgin olive oil on top for a glossy finish. You can also sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or a light dusting of chili flakes for a little extra texture and flavor. For a festive touch, present the dish with whole basil sprigs arranged artfully on the side.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, place leftover gnocchi and marinara sauce in separate airtight containers and refrigerate. This helps preserve the texture and flavor for up to 3 days, so you can enjoy a quick reheat without losing the magic of the dish.
Freezing
If you want to keep this Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce Recipe on hand for longer, freezing is a great option. Freeze cooked gnocchi in a single layer on a sheet pan, then transfer to a freezer bag. Marinara sauce freezes beautifully in a sealed container for up to 3 months—perfect for a fast, tasty meal anytime.
Reheating
Reheat gnocchi gently in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to keep them soft, while warming marinara sauce on the stovetop or microwave. Avoid overcooking to maintain the fluffy texture of the gnocchi and the vibrant flavors of the marinara.
FAQs
Can I make my own gnocchi from scratch for this recipe?
Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi adds a personal touch and can be tailored to your texture preferences. However, the DeLallo Potato & Cheese Gnocchi Kit used here is a fantastic shortcut that’s both delicious and convenient, especially on busy nights.
What can I substitute if I don’t have white wine?
Water works wonderfully as a substitute, keeping the sauce moist and flavorful without altering the taste drastically. If you want a little extra depth, a splash of chicken or vegetable broth can also do the trick.
Is it okay to omit the red pepper flakes?
Totally fine! The red pepper flakes add a subtle heat but leaving them out will keep your marinara mild and universally enjoyable. You can always sprinkle some chili flakes at the table if you want to customize the spice level.
How do I know when the gnocchi is perfectly cooked?
Gnocchi cooks quickly and is ready when it floats to the surface of boiling water. As soon as they rise, use a slotted spoon to scoop them out—they should be soft, tender, and ready to soak up that luscious marinara sauce.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Definitely! Grilled chicken, Italian sausage, or pan-seared mushrooms all pair beautifully with gnocchi and marinara. Add your choice of protein either folded into the sauce or served on the side for a heartier meal.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about this Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce Recipe—it’s a dish that feels both comforting and a little elegant, and it’s easy enough to make any night of the week. I encourage you to give it a try and experience how the simple magic of gnocchi and a homemade-style marinara sauce can brighten up your dinner table. Trust me, once you taste it, this will become a go-to recipe for years to come.
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Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 30 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and classic Italian dish featuring soft potato and cheese gnocchi served with a flavorful homemade marinara sauce made from San Marzano style crushed tomatoes, garlic, onions, and fresh basil. Perfect for a cozy family meal.
Ingredients
Gnocchi
- 1 (8.82 ounce) DeLallo Potato & Cheese Gnocchi Kit
Marinara Sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup dry white wine or water
- 1 (28 fluid ounce) can DeLallo San Marzano Style Crushed Tomatoes
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
- 3 sprigs fresh basil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Serving
- Additional fresh basil, torn (optional)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat, then add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Prepare the Sauce: Pour in the white wine (or water), add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine. Add the fresh basil sprigs whole into the sauce. Reduce heat to low or medium-low and simmer uncovered gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to allow flavors to meld.
- Cook the Gnocchi: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, usually until they float to the surface, then drain.
- Finish the Sauce: Taste the marinara sauce, remove the basil sprigs, and season with salt and pepper as needed. For a hint of sweetness, optionally stir in a pinch of sugar.
- Serve: Plate the cooked gnocchi and generously spoon the marinara sauce over. Garnish with torn fresh basil and freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired, and enjoy immediately.
Notes
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, simmer the marinara for a few extra minutes to reduce excess liquid.
- The pinch of red pepper flakes adds a subtle heat but can be omitted for a milder flavor.
- Using fresh San Marzano style tomatoes gives the sauce a rich, authentic taste.
- To make this dish vegetarian, ensure the gnocchi kit and Parmesan cheese do not contain animal rennet.
- Leftover sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently before serving.
