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Homemade Roasted Red Pepper Gnocchi Bake recipe photo

Roasted Red Pepper Gnocchi Bake

This Roasted Red Pepper Gnocchi Bake is SO EASY! Creamy, cheesy, and packed with sweet roasted peppers and tender gnocchi for a comforting meal.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 package gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
  • 2 cups roasted red peppers chopped (jarred or fresh-roasted)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup spinach (fresh or frozen, well-drained)
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 0.5 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Turkey bacon cooked and crumbled (optional)
  • Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Equipment

  • Large skillet or sauté pan
  • Baking dish (9x13 inch or similar)
  • Mixing bowls
  • Sharp knife and cutting board
  • Measuring cups and spoons

Method
 

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Gnocchi
  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). If you are using frozen gnocchi, there’s no need to thaw; they will cook perfectly in the bake. If fresh, just have them ready.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Spinach
  1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute — don’t let it brown. Add the spinach and cook until wilted (if fresh) or warmed through (if frozen). Season lightly with salt and pepper. Remove from the heat.
Step 3: Combine Cheeses and Peppers
  1. In a mixing bowl, fold together the ricotta cheese, roasted red peppers, half of the mozzarella, grated Parmesan, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir in the sautéed garlic and spinach mixture. The combination will be creamy and chunky with bits of red pepper.
Step 4: Assemble the Bake
  1. Add the gnocchi to the cheese and pepper mixture and gently toss to coat everything evenly. Transfer this mixture into your greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella cheese on top for that golden, bubbly crust.
Step 5: Add Turkey Bacon (Optional)
  1. For a smoky, savory crunch, sprinkle cooked and crumbled turkey bacon over the top before baking. This step is optional but highly recommended for extra flavor.
Step 6: Bake Until Golden
  1. Place the dish in the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden and bubbly. The gnocchi will be tender, and the cheese will have melted into a luscious topping.
Step 7: Garnish and Serve
  1. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh basil leaves to add a bright, herbal note and a pop of color. Serve this comforting Roasted Red Pepper Gnocchi Bake warm, paired with a crisp salad or garlic bread.

Notes

  • Using jarred roasted red peppers saves time, but roasting your own will elevate the flavor immensely.
  • Don’t overmix the gnocchi with the cheese mixture to keep them tender and pillowy.
  • Allow the bake to rest for a few minutes after coming out of the oven to set nicely.