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Cheesy Gnocchi and Meatball Bake

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Cheesy Gnocchi and Meatball Bake is a hearty one-dish meal featuring tender gnocchi, juicy meatballs, rich tomato sauce, and a golden cheesy topping — the ultimate comfort food for any occasion.

Ingredients

  • 500 g gnocchi (fresh or dried)
  • 500 g ground beef (or mix of beef and pork)
  • 1/3 cup breadcrumbs
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 egg
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped (divided use)
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced (divided use)
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning (or oregano, basil, parsley blend)
  • 1 can (400 g) crushed or diced tomatoes (or tomato sauce)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and pepper, to taste
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 2 tbsp grated Parmesan (for topping)
  • Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional garnish)
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

Instructions

  1. Preheat oven to 190°C (375°F) and lightly grease a baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, grated Parmesan, half the onion, half the garlic, egg, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Shape into small meatballs.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Brown meatballs on all sides, then remove and set aside.
  4. In the same skillet, sauté remaining onion and garlic until softened. Stir in crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–10 minutes until slightly thickened.
  5. Return browned meatballs to the sauce, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes to finish cooking and absorb flavour.
  6. Cook gnocchi according to package directions until just al dente (if required). Drain and set aside.
  7. Combine gnocchi, sauce, and meatballs in the prepared baking dish, stirring gently to coat evenly.
  8. Top with shredded mozzarella and sprinkle with Parmesan.
  9. Bake for 20–25 minutes, until cheese is melted, golden, and bubbling. Broil for 1–2 minutes if desired for extra browning.
  10. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley.

Notes

  • Use ground turkey or chicken for a leaner version.
  • Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or zucchini to the sauce for extra nutrition.
  • Mix in ricotta or cream cheese for a creamier texture.
  • Make it gluten-free with gluten-free breadcrumbs and gnocchi.
  • Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze up to 1 month.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://thefamilycooking.com/cheesy-gnocchi-and-meatball-bake/