If you’re craving a dish that’s bursting with flavor, easy to prepare, and has that irresistible creamy-cheesy vibe, then you’ve got to try this Baked Feta Gnocchi Recipe. Imagine pillowy gnocchi swimming in a luscious, roasted tomato sauce enriched by melty, tangy feta cheese, all infused with the warm aroma of garlic, onions, and fresh herbs. It’s a gourmet-tasting meal that feels cozy and indulgent, yet is surprisingly simple — perfect for a weeknight dinner or impressing friends without the fuss.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are straightforward and accessible, but each one plays a crucial role in creating the rich texture, vibrant color, and balanced flavors of the dish. Together, they transform into a comforting plate that’s both hearty and fresh.
- 8 ounces feta cheese: Provides the creamy, tangy center and signature flavor.
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes: Burst in the oven creating a natural, sweet tomato sauce.
- 17.5 ounces gnocchi: Soft potato dumplings that soak up all the delicious juices.
- 1/2 red onion (finely diced): Adds a subtle sharpness and sweetness when roasted.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Infuses a warm, savory aroma and depth of flavor.
- 3 tablespoons olive oil: Helps everything roast perfectly and brings richness.
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme (finely chopped): Offers an earthy, herbal note that brightens the dish.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt: Enhances and balances the flavors beautifully.
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper: Adds just enough of a gentle bite.
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Provides a subtle, pleasant heat that wakes up your palate.
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves: Brings a fragrant, fresh finish.
How to Make Baked Feta Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Preheat the Oven
Set your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit so it’s nice and hot, ready to work its magic on the feta, tomatoes, and gnocchi. The key here is the high temperature that encourages the tomatoes to burst and caramelize beautifully.
Step 2: Arrange the Ingredients
Place the block of feta right in the center of a large rimmed sheet pan or baking dish. Nestle the cherry tomatoes, gnocchi, finely diced red onion, and minced garlic all around the feta. This arrangement lets the ingredients cook together and share their flavors as they roast.
Step 3: Add Olive Oil and Seasonings
Drizzle the olive oil evenly over the entire dish, then sprinkle thyme, kosher salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes on top. Toss gently so everything is coated, ensuring every bite is perfectly seasoned and glossy with oil to develop that deep, roasted taste.
Step 4: Bake Until Perfect
Pop your dish into the oven and bake for about 35 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the cherry tomatoes have burst, releasing their juices, and the feta is beautifully softened and slightly golden on top—this is where the magic truly happens.
Step 5: Mix and Finish with Basil
Once out of the oven, give everything a good stir to blend the feta with the tomatoes and gnocchi, creating a creamy sauce. Scatter fresh basil leaves on top just before serving to add a bright, herbal lift to this rich dish.
How to Serve Baked Feta Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil is a must-have garnish for this Baked Feta Gnocchi Recipe, adding lovely fragrance and vibrant color. If you want to get fancy, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or a dash of lemon zest for an extra twist that complements the creamy feta and roasted tomatoes.
Side Dishes
Serve this with a simple mixed greens salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Crusty bread is another great companion, perfect for mopping up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
Try layering the baked feta and gnocchi in warm shallow bowls or serve family-style straight from the baking dish for a cozy, rustic vibe. For a fresh touch, add a drizzle of balsamic glaze or a few shavings of Parmesan to elevate the presentation and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Baked Feta Gnocchi Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep well for up to 3 days and maintain that wonderful blend of textures and flavors.
Freezing
You can freeze leftovers by placing them in a freezer-safe container, but keep in mind the texture of gnocchi might soften a bit after thawing. To enjoy the best quality, eat frozen portions within 1 month.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in a preheated oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through. Avoid microwaving as it can make the gnocchi rubbery. Adding a splash of olive oil when reheating helps refresh the texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I use another type of cheese besides feta?
Feta is essential for that tangy, creamy flavor that defines this recipe, but if you’re in a pinch, a crumbly goat cheese or ricotta salata can work as substitutes, though the flavor profile will change slightly.
Is it important to use cherry tomatoes?
Cherry tomatoes burst easily and create a naturally sweet sauce that melds perfectly with feta and gnocchi. You could experiment with grape tomatoes, but avoid larger slicing tomatoes as they won’t roast the same way.
Can I add vegetables to the recipe?
Absolutely! Sliced bell peppers or zucchini work well roasted alongside the gnocchi, adding more color and nutrition while keeping the dish balanced and fresh.
What if I don’t have fresh basil?
Dried basil won’t give the same bright, fresh finish, but you can omit it or substitute with fresh parsley or oregano if you have any on hand for a different herbal note.
Will this recipe work with homemade gnocchi?
Definitely! Homemade gnocchi adds an amazing freshness and pillowy texture. Just be mindful of the cooking time, as fresh gnocchi may cook faster than store-bought varieties.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s incredibly simple yet delivers big on flavor and comfort, this Baked Feta Gnocchi Recipe is a total winner. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to make again and again, perfect for any season and every occasion. Trust me, once you try it, this recipe will become a delicious staple in your kitchen — enjoy every bite!
Print
Baked Feta Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Mediterranean
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
This Baked Feta Gnocchi recipe features gooey baked feta cheese combined with juicy cherry tomatoes, pillowy gnocchi, and a flavorful blend of garlic, red onion, and fresh herbs. Baked in the oven until the tomatoes burst and the cheese softens, this dish is both comforting and vibrant—a perfect savory meal served warm with a fresh basil garnish.
Ingredients
Cheese and Dairy
- 8 ounces feta cheese
Produce
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 red onion, finely diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
Pasta
- 17.5 ounces gnocchi
Oils and Seasonings
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Preheat the Oven: Begin by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit to ensure it reaches the perfect temperature for baking the gnocchi and feta mixture.
- Arrange Ingredients: Place the block of feta cheese in the center of a large rimmed sheet pan or a baking dish. Surround the feta with cherry tomatoes, gnocchi, finely diced red onion, and minced garlic evenly distributed around the cheese.
- Season and Toss: Drizzle the olive oil over the feta, cherry tomatoes, and gnocchi. Sprinkle fresh thyme, kosher salt, ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes over the ingredients. Toss gently to make sure everything is thoroughly coated in the seasoning and oil.
- Bake Until Tender: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 35 minutes, or until the cherry tomatoes burst and the feta softens and starts to brown slightly.
- Combine and Serve: Once baked, stir all the ingredients together in the pan to combine the melted feta with the tomatoes and gnocchi. Finish by topping with fresh basil leaves before serving warm.
Notes
- You can substitute the gnocchi with small pasta shells or tortellini if desired.
- For added protein, consider adding cooked chicken or sausage before baking.
- If you prefer a milder heat, reduce or omit the red pepper flakes.
- Serve with a side of crusty bread to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated in the oven or microwave.
