5 Ingredient Baked Gnocchi
By: Leah Rodrigues
Published: November 16, 2015

Fresh gnocchi has become readily available in recent years and can be easily found in your regular grocery store.  These Italian potato dumplings are a staple in my house because they are essential for quick and easy weeknight meals.  Also, it is a great substitute for pasta so you can change up your dinner routine.  This vegetarian recipe mixes store bought marinara sauce with fresh garlic and basil to liven up the flavors.  You can certainly add a protein like ground Italian sausage or cubed chicken if you have that laying around in your fridge.  Feel free to boost the vegetables too by adding sliced mushrooms, eggplant and zucchini. 5 ingredient baked gnocchi is a versatile dish that will brighten mealtime.
Baked Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Ingredients:
1 16 oz. package fresh gnocchi
	1 tablespoon olive oil
	2 garlic cloves, finely minced
	1 24 oz. jar tomato basil marinara sauce
	1/4 cup fresh basil leaves
	1 ball fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
Directions:
Step 1: Preheat the oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.
Step 2: Fill a large pot with water and place on the stove top over high heat.  Cover the pot and bring the water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package directions and set aside.
Step 3: Heat olive oil in a large saute pan over medium high heat.  Add the garlic cloves and saute until fragrant, about 30 seconds.  Add the marinara sauce and bring mixture to a low simmer.  Add the gnocchi to the pot and mix until well combined.  Remove the pan from heat and stir in the fresh basil.
	Step 4: Pour the gnocchi into a small casserole dish and top with fresh mozzarella cheese.  Bake the potato dumplings for 15 to 20 minutes or until the cheese has melted. Serve hot.