Romantic Baked Gnocchi with Burrata

Name: Romantic Baked Gnocchi with Burrata
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound gnocchi; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 8 ounces burrata cheese; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Golden Kitchen

I love whipping up comfort food that feels special, and this Romantic Baked Gnocchi with Burrata is my go-to dish for cozy nights in. The moment you pull it from the oven, the creamy burrata melts beautifully over the tender gnocchi, creating a delightful blend of flavors. I often serve it with a simple side salad, which perfectly balances the richness of the dish. It’s easy to prepare yet feels elegant, making it perfect for any romantic occasion or just a treat for yourself.

Created by

Bethan Rowcroft

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:21:34.692Z

When I first experimented with this recipe, I was amazed at how easily the ingredients meld together to create something truly delicious. The smoky notes from roasted tomatoes combined with the soft, pillowy gnocchi create a comforting dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I also discovered that using fresh burrata instead of mozzarella delivers a creamier texture that elevates the dish further.

One important tip I've learned is to ensure you don't overcook the gnocchi before baking. Just a light boil until they float is ideal; they'll finish cooking perfectly in the oven while soaking up all those rich flavors. This is a dish that never fails to impress and is now a staple in my kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy burrata adds an exquisite texture
Comforting gnocchi baked in rich tomato sauce
Quick preparation makes it easy for busy nights

Creating the Perfect Sauce

The tomato sauce in this Romantic Baked Gnocchi is the star of the show, providing essential moisture and flavor. Using fresh cherry tomatoes ensures a natural sweetness that pairs excellently with the richness of the burrata. If you can't find ripe cherry tomatoes, canned whole tomatoes can be a great substitute; just crush them slightly while cooking to create a similar texture. The goal is to achieve a chunky, flavorful sauce that clings to the gnocchi, so don't rush the cooking—allowing the tomatoes to soften for 5-7 minutes is key.

Sautéing the garlic until fragrant is another crucial step. This brief cooking time releases aromatic oils without burning, which can lead to a bitter flavor. Once the garlic is golden, add the tomatoes and seasonings to build the flavors. If you want an extra depth of taste, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a subtle kick. This sauce should be glossy and vibrant, signaling it's ready for the gnocchi.

Baking to Perfection

When combining the gnocchi with the sauce, ensure each piece is well-coated, which allows for even flavor distribution. Using a large baking dish will help in achieving a nice bubbly texture on top; a 9x13 inch dish is perfect for this amount. After adding the torn burrata, which should be nestled into the gnocchi rather than simply spread on top, the dish will meld together beautifully as it cooks. Look for a baking time of 15-20 minutes—you're aiming for a golden top with bubbling edges to confirm it's done.

If you notice that the burrata isn't melting as expected, your oven may need to be calibrated. An oven thermometer is great for ensuring that it reaches the correct temperature. If the top isn't browning nicely, you can briefly switch the oven to broil for the last few minutes, but keep a close eye on it to prevent burning.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients for a delicious experience!

For the Gnocchi Bake

1 pound gnocchi
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
8 ounces burrata cheese
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a delicious meal.

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) to ensure it's hot enough for baking.

Cook the Gnocchi

In a pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi until they float, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, heat olive oil and sauté the minced garlic until fragrant. Add the halved cherry tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Cook for about 5-7 minutes until the tomatoes soften.

Combine and Bake

Mix the cooked gnocchi into the skillet with the tomato sauce. Pour everything into a baking dish and top with torn burrata. Bake for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Serve and Garnish

Remove from oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot. Enjoy your romantic meal!

This baked gnocchi dish is best enjoyed fresh out of the oven!

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a slight kick.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, they can be stored for up to three days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. To reheat, place the gnocchi in an oven-safe dish and cover with foil, heating in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through. This will help maintain the texture of the dish without drying it out. Alternatively, using a microwave is quicker, but the gnocchi may become slightly softer.

For longer storage, consider freezing the assembled but uncooked dish. Cover it tightly and freeze for up to two months. When ready to enjoy, simply bake straight from the freezer, adding an extra 10-15 minutes to the cook time to ensure everything is heated thoroughly.

Variations to Try

While traditional gnocchi is made with potatoes, feel free to explore other types, such as cauliflower gnocchi, for a lighter version that still holds up well in the sauce. Another delicious variation is switching up the cheese; substituting with ricotta or even a vegan cheese can provide a unique twist. Add herbs like thyme or rosemary for an aromatic flavor, compelling variations that can delight your palate.

If you want to sneak more veggies into this dish, consider adding spinach or zucchini to the sauce. Chopped spinach can be stirred in just before combining with the gnocchi, wilting nicely into the sauce. Sliced zucchini can be sautéed along with the tomatoes for a colorful, nutrient-rich enhancement.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi is convenient and works perfectly in this recipe.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ Can I use a different cheese?

Yes! Mozzarella or ricotta can be used if you can't find burrata.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A fresh side salad or garlic bread pairs beautifully with the baked gnocchi.