Looking for a comforting midweek dinner that doesn’t take much effort? This gnocchi with tomato, spinach and ricotta bake ticks every box. Soft potato gnocchi is tossed with a simple tomato and spinach sauce, dotted with creamy ricotta, and finished under a hot oven until bubbling and golden. It’s the kind of recipe that looks like you’ve made an effort, without any of the actual effort.
It’s also easy to adapt. Swap the gnocchi for your family’s favourite pasta shape if you prefer, or stir a tub of ricotta straight into the sauce along with the spinach for an extra creamy version. Leftover cooked bacon or ham stirred through the sauce works well too, if you want to add some protein.
Serves 6.
Ingredients
- 2 x 500g packs of potato gnocchi
- 2 x 400g good-quality jars of tomato sauce
- 200g baby spinach, washed
- 2 x 250g tubs of ricotta cheese
- A handful of freshly grated Parmesan, to serve
Method
1. Preheat the oven to 200°C.
2. Cook the gnocchi according to the packet instructions, then drain.
3. Meanwhile, heat the tomato sauce in a saucepan, add the spinach and stir until wilted.
4. Put the cooked, drained gnocchi into a lightly oiled ovenproof dish. Pour the sauce over the top and dot with blobs of ricotta.
5. Scatter over the grated Parmesan and place in the hot oven until bubbling and golden, about 10 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes. Assemble the dish up to the point of baking, cover and keep it in the fridge for a few hours, then bake when you’re ready to eat. You may need a few extra minutes in the oven if it’s going in cold.
Can I freeze gnocchi with tomato, spinach and ricotta?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, as gnocchi can change texture after freezing and reheating. If you do want to freeze it, freeze before the final bake and defrost thoroughly before cooking.
Can I use a different pasta instead of gnocchi?
Absolutely. Any short pasta shape, such as penne or fusilli, works well in place of gnocchi. Just cook it according to the packet instructions before assembling the bake.
Is this recipe suitable for vegetarians?
Yes, as written this recipe is vegetarian. Simply check the label on your tomato sauce and Parmesan if you need to confirm they’re suitable.
Related Recipes
If you enjoyed this one, you might also like our Pasta Fagiole and our simple Tomato & Basil Sauce for Pasta, both quick family-friendly dinners.
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