This sheet pan gnocchi with cherry tomatoes offers a flavorful and convenient solution for busy weeknights. You will love how easily this recipe comes together, providing a satisfying and wholesome sheet pan dinner. This is the perfect introduction to easy sheet pan dinner recipes.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
- Pillowy Gnocchi: Use shelf-stable or refrigerated potato gnocchi for convenience. Sweet potato gnocchi is a delicious alternative.
- Sweet Cherry Tomatoes: These burst with flavor when roasted. Grape tomatoes or halved Roma tomatoes work well too.
- Fresh Mozzarella: Small mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine) are ideal. Shredded mozzarella can be used in a pinch.
- Fragrant Basil: Fresh basil is key for brightness. Dried basil can be used, but fresh is highly recommended.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 (17.6-ounce) package shelf-stable potato gnocchi
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella balls (bocconcini or ciliegine), halved if large
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Garnish:
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
How Much Time Will You Need?
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Tools: Large baking sheet, mixing bowl
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare Your Baking Sheet
Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large baking sheet with parchment paper for easy cleanup, a common practice for sheet pan dinner recipes.
2. Combine Ingredients
In a large mixing bowl, gently combine the gnocchi, halved cherry tomatoes, olive oil, dried oregano, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Ensure everything is evenly coated.
3. Spread on Sheet Pan
Pour the gnocchi and tomato mixture onto the prepared baking sheet. Spread it out into a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd the pan for even cooking.
4. Roast Until Tender
Bake for 15 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and lightly golden, and the tomatoes have softened and begun to burst. This is the magic of sheet pan dinner recipes.
5. Add Mozzarella and Finish
Remove the sheet pan from the oven. Evenly scatter the halved fresh mozzarella balls over the hot gnocchi and tomatoes. Return the pan to the oven for another 2-3 minutes, just until the mozzarella is melted and bubbly.
6. Garnish and Serve
Carefully remove the sheet pan from the oven. Sprinkle generously with fresh chopped basil leaves before serving warm. Enjoy your delicious sheet pan gnocchi!
Variation Ideas
- Add diced bell peppers or zucchini to the sheet pan for more vegetables.
- Stir in a tablespoon of pesto with the olive oil for extra flavor.
- Sprinkle with grated parmesan cheese after baking for a salty kick.
- Include a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
Storage Instructions
Store any leftover sheet pan gnocchi with cherry tomatoes in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently in the microwave or in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. The gnocchi may lose some of its crispness but will still be delicious.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can you use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
A: Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi, but you might need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time. Do not thaw it beforehand.
Q: Do you need to boil the gnocchi first?
A: No, for this sheet pan dinner recipe, the gnocchi cooks directly on the sheet pan, absorbing flavors and getting delightfully tender.
Q: Can you make this dish ahead of time?
A: It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can chop your tomatoes and mozzarella ahead of time.
Q: What vegetables pair well with this dish?
A: Broccoli florets, sliced zucchini, or bell peppers are excellent additions that roast well alongside the gnocchi and tomatoes.
Q: Is this recipe vegetarian?
A: Yes, this sheet pan gnocchi with cherry tomatoes is a delicious and satisfying vegetarian sheet pan dinner option.
Q: What if you don’t have parchment paper?
A: You can oil the baking sheet directly, but parchment paper makes cleanup much easier and prevents sticking.