Romantic Baked Gnocchi with Burrata

Name: Romantic Baked Gnocchi with Burrata
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: 1 pound gnocchi; 2 cups marinara sauce; 8 ounces burrata cheese; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon garlic powder; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Highlighted under: Rustic Collection

I’ve always been captivated by the comforting embrace of gnocchi, and when I decided to elevate this dish with the creaminess of burrata, I knew I had stumbled upon something special. The combination of flavors and textures made it the perfect dish for a cozy night in or a romantic dinner. Every bite bathed in rich tomato sauce and topped with melty burrata is a delightful experience. Trust me, this is a meal that will impress anyone at your table!

Created by

Loretta Winslow

Last updated on 2026-01-06T13:17:35.271Z

When I first made this Romantic Baked Gnocchi with Burrata, I wanted to experiment with texture and creaminess. Pairing the soft gnocchi with the rich burrata creates a symphony of flavors. I recommend using homemade gnocchi if you have the time, as it adds a special touch that store-bought can't replicate.

Another essential tip is to bake it until the burrata is just melted and slightly golden. This enhances the flavors even further and creates an unforgettable romantic meal. Plus, adding fresh basil as a finishing touch elevates the whole dish!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy burrata that complements the pillowy gnocchi
Rich tomato sauce infused with herbs and spices
Perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion

      

The Magic of Burrata

Burrata cheese is the star of this dish, adding a luxurious creaminess that transforms the gnocchi. When the burrata melts during baking, it creates a rich, decadent sauce that envelops the fluffy gnocchi. Its delicate texture contrasts beautifully with the al dente gnocchi, offering a delightful mouthfeel. Choosing high-quality burrata is essential; look for one with a soft exterior and a creamy center for the best results.

To enhance the flavors further, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the marinara sauce. This subtle kick balances the richness of the burrata and makes every bite more exciting. If you're unable to find burrata, fresh mozzarella can be a suitable substitute, but it won't provide the same creamy consistency. Aim for the freshest mozzarella available for a satisfactory replacement.

Perfecting the Gnocchi

Cooking the gnocchi just right ensures that they have the perfect texture in the final bake. Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil before adding the gnocchi. They’re ready when they float to the surface in 2-3 minutes; any longer and you risk them becoming mushy. A slotted spoon is ideal for removing them, allowing excess water to drain before mixing with the marinara sauce.

If you want to save time on busy nights, consider preparing gnocchi from scratch ahead of time. Once formed, freeze the uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet before transferring them to an airtight bag. When you're ready to make this dish, cook the frozen gnocchi directly from the freezer, adding an extra minute or two to the boiling time.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delightful baked gnocchi dish:

Ingredients

1 pound gnocchi
2 cups marinara sauce
8 ounces burrata cheese
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Now that you have all your ingredients, let's move on to the cooking process!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to cook your Romantic Baked Gnocchi with Burrata:

Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This step is crucial as it ensures that your gnocchi bakes evenly.

Cook the Gnocchi

Boil water in a large pot. Add a pinch of salt, then carefully drop in the gnocchi. Cook until they float to the top (about 2-3 minutes), then drain them.

Combine with Sauce

In a shallow baking dish, mix the cooked gnocchi with marinara sauce, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Ensure the gnocchi is well-coated.

Add Burrata and Bake

Tear the burrata cheese into smaller pieces and place them over the sauced gnocchi. Drizzle with olive oil, then cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes.

Final Touch

Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the burrata is melted and slightly golden. Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Once it’s baked and ready, serve it warm and enjoy your romantic meal!

Pro Tips

To enhance the flavor, you can sprinkle some freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top before serving.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This baked gnocchi dish is perfect for meal prep. You can prepare the gnocchi and marinara sauce a day in advance, storing them separately in the refrigerator. When ready to bake, combine them and add the burrata just before baking. The dish can also be assembled and stored unbaked in the fridge for up to 24 hours. Just cover it tightly with foil or plastic wrap to prevent drying out.

If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, simply transfer to an oven-safe dish and heat at 350°F (175°C) for about 20 minutes, or until warmed through. Adding a splash of extra marinara can refresh the sauce and help maintain moisture.

Serving Suggestions

For a beautifully composed meal, serve the baked gnocchi alongside a simple arugula salad tossed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery notes of arugula will cut through the creaminess of the burrata, providing a refreshing contrast that enhances the overall dining experience. Alternatively, a side of garlic bread or crusty Italian bread works wonderfully for mopping up the delicious sauce.

Feel free to customize the dish further with toppings like grated Parmesan or fresh herbs such as thyme or parsley. These additions can elevate the flavor profile and bring a fresh element to the dish. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil before serving will also enhance the flavors and add a touch of elegance.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes! Store-bought gnocchi saves time and still works beautifully in this recipe.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian. Just ensure the marinara sauce is free from meat products.

→ Can I prepare this dish in advance?

You can prepare it a few hours ahead but bake it just before serving for the best texture.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A light green salad paired with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the baked gnocchi perfectly.