Gnocchi pizza is a fun twist on classic pizza! Soft, pillowy gnocchi serves as a tasty base, topped with your favorite tomato sauce, cheese, and delicious toppings.
It’s like pizza and pasta had a party, and everyone came! I love making this on a cozy night—it’s a hit with the whole family and oh-so-easy to prepare. 🍕✨
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Gnocchi: This is the star of the dish! Store-bought gnocchi is convenient and tasty. If you’re feeling adventurous, try making homemade gnocchi with flour and potatoes. You could also use cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb option.
Marinara or Pizza Sauce: A good sauce makes all the difference! I prefer to use homemade marinara, but store-bought works great too. If you’re looking for a twist, try pesto or buffalo sauce instead.
Cheese: Fresh mozzarella is a must for its creamy texture. If you can’t find it, shredded mozzarella will do. Mix in some provolone or gouda for extra flavor. Vegan cheese is also a solid substitute for dairy-free options.
Pepperoni: While pepperoni is classic, feel free to get creative! Try adding sliced bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, or even cooked sausage. You could also make it vegetarian by skipping meat altogether!
How Do You Cook Gnocchi Perfectly?
Cooking gnocchi can be tricky because you want them to maintain their texture. Here’s a simple way to ensure they come out great:
- Use a large pot with plenty of salted water to ensure they cook evenly.
- Cook gnocchi until they float, which means they are done—this usually takes 2-3 minutes.
- Don’t overcrowd the pot; cook in batches if needed for best results.
After cooking, shake off any excess water and give them a quick sauté. This adds a lovely golden finish and makes them extra delicious in your gnocchi pizza!
Gnocchi Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Pizza:
- 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups marinara or pizza sauce
- 8 oz (225g) fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced or shredded
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 20-25 slices pepperoni (or your favorite pizza toppings)
For Cooking:
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Gnocchi Pizza requires about 10 minutes for preparation and around 20 minutes for baking, giving you a total time of about 30 minutes. It’s quick and fun—a perfect meal for a busy night!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your pizza gets that nice, bubbly cheese finish!
2. Cook the Gnocchi:
In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook them until they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once they’re floating, they’re done! Drain the water well and set the gnocchi aside.
3. Sauté the Gnocchi:
Next, grab an ovenproof skillet and heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the cooked gnocchi and sauté them lightly for about 2-3 minutes, until they look a bit golden and crispy.
4. Add the Sauce:
Now it’s time to spread the marinara or pizza sauce evenly over your sautéed gnocchi. Make sure every piece is covered with that delicious sauce.
5. Top with Cheese:
Distribute the mozzarella cheese evenly on top of the sauce. You want a nice, cheesy layer because who doesn’t love cheesy pizza?
6. Add Toppings:
Next, layer on your pepperoni slices (or whatever toppings you prefer). After that, sprinkle Parmesan cheese, dried oregano, garlic powder, and a bit of salt and pepper for extra flavor.
7. Bake the Pizza:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Bake for about 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly, and the top has a lovely golden color.
8. Cool and Garnish:
Remove your gnocchi pizza from the oven and allow it to cool for a few minutes. This helps it set a bit more. Just before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the pizza into wedges or squares depending on your preference, and serve warm. Enjoy your flavorful and comforting Gnocchi Pizza!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. There’s no need to thaw them beforehand; simply cook them directly in boiling water as per the package instructions before sautéing.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, make sure they’re completely cool, then transfer them to an airtight container. They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the oven or microwave, adding a splash of sauce if it seems a bit dry.
Can I Use Different Toppings?
Definitely! Get creative with your toppings. Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or mushrooms, or try using different types of cheese like feta or gouda. You can even make it vegetarian by omitting the meats!
Is This Recipe Suitable for Meal Prep?
Yes! You can prepare the gnocchi and sauce in advance, and assemble everything right before baking. During busy weeks, this makes for a quick and delicious meal ready to go in about 20 minutes!
