Ricotta And Spinach Gnocchi Bake

There’s something magical about the combination of creamy ricotta, earthy spinach, and pillowy gnocchi that transforms a simple dish into a culinary delight. One such dish that captures this magic is the Ricotta and Spinach Gnocchi Bake. This comforting and flavorful recipe brings together the richness of ricotta, the freshness of spinach, and the comforting texture of gnocchi to create a dish that is not only delicious but also easy to prepare.

Ingredients:

To embark on this culinary journey, gather the following ingredients:

• 1 pound store-bought gnocchi
• 1 cup ricotta cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 can (14 ounces) crushed tomatoes
• Fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the dish bakes evenly and develops those delicious flavors.
2. Cook the Gnocchi: Boil the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Once they float to the surface, indicating they are cooked, drain and set aside.
3. Prepare the Spinach: In a pan, sauté the minced garlic in olive oil until fragrant. Add the chopped spinach and cook until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Combine the Ingredients: In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, ricotta cheese, sautéed spinach, mozzarella cheese, and grated Parmesan. Mix well to ensure all the ingredients are evenly distributed.
5. Layer the Casserole: In a baking dish, spread a layer of crushed tomatoes. Place the gnocchi mixture over the tomatoes, spreading it evenly. Sprinkle dried oregano on top for an extra burst of flavor.
6. Bake to Perfection: Place the baking dish in the preheated oven and bake for approximately 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly.
7. Garnish and Serve: Once out of the oven, let the dish rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, flavorful goodness.

Conclusion:

The Ricotta and Spinach Gnocchi Bake is a delightful blend of textures and flavors that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds. This dish is not only a fantastic weeknight dinner option but also a crowd-pleaser for gatherings. The combination of ricotta, spinach, and gnocchi creates a symphony of tastes that is sure to become a favorite in your repertoire of comforting recipes. Embrace the simplicity and richness of this dish, and savor the joy it brings to your table.