Romantic Baked Gnocchi with Burrata

Name: Romantic Baked Gnocchi with Burrata
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound fresh gnocchi; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped; 1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional); 8 ounces burrata cheese; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Inspiration

I absolutely adore making Romantic Baked Gnocchi with Burrata for special occasions. This dish combines the comforting texture of gnocchi with the creamy richness of burrata, making it perfect for a cozy dinner for two. Cooking the gnocchi until just golden allows the cheese to melt beautifully, creating a luscious sauce that clings to each piece. The fresh basil I sprinkle on top adds a burst of flavor that elevates the entire dish, making it a delightful experience every time I serve it.

Created by

Victoria Hall

Last updated on 2026-01-06T16:21:34.648Z

One of my favorite memories is when I crafted this dish for a romantic date night at home. I wanted something that felt both elegant and comfortingly familiar. After experimenting with different ingredients, I found that adding a touch of garlic and sun-dried tomatoes truly enhanced the flavor profile while allowing the burrata to shine. The first time I pulled the cheesy goodness from the oven, I knew I had created something special!

Not only does the burrata make this dish extra indulgent, but it's also surprisingly straightforward to make. I recommend using fresh gnocchi, as it elevates the entire experience. The authentic flavor and soft texture pair perfectly with the tangy tomato sauce, ensuring every bite is rich and satisfying. It's a dish that never fails to impress!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Decadent combination of melt-in-your-mouth burrata and tender gnocchi
Easy to prepare yet incredibly impressive for guests
Layered flavors from garlic, tomatoes, and fresh herbs in every bite

      

The Key to Perfect Gnocchi

The success of this dish heavily relies on the quality of the gnocchi. Fresh gnocchi is recommended for its pillowy texture and ability to hold up during baking. If you can’t find fresh gnocchi, opt for frozen varieties, but be sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times, as they may differ. Keep an eye on them while boiling; they’re ready when they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

Another crucial aspect is ensuring your water is well-salted before boiling the gnocchi. This is vital for flavor, as gnocchi have a tendency to absorb surrounding tastes. A good rule of thumb is to use about 1 tablespoon of salt per quart of water. For a slightly richer taste, you can also add a splash of olive oil to the boiling water, which helps to prevent sticking.

Mastering the Sauce

When making the sauce, the sautéing process should be closely monitored. You want the garlic to become fragrant and slightly golden without burning, which can happen quickly. Use a wooden spoon to stir it while adding your sun-dried tomatoes, which bring a deep, rich flavor that complements the freshness of the crushed tomatoes. For a smoother sauce, you can blend the crushed tomatoes with a stick blender before adding them to the skillet.

Adjust the seasoning to your palate. If you prefer a bit more heat, the optional red pepper flakes can be increased, or you can substitute with diced fresh chili for a more vibrant spiciness. As the sauce simmers, it will thicken and develop a glossy appearance. Cooking it for about 5 minutes allows the flavors to meld, so be sure to taste and adjust accordingly before mixing in the gnocchi.

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create a wonderfully indulgent dish.

Ingredients

1 pound fresh gnocchi
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup sun-dried tomatoes, chopped
1 can (15 oz) crushed tomatoes
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
8 ounces burrata cheese
Fresh basil for garnish

Make sure to have everything ready before starting for a smooth cooking experience!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create an unforgettable dinner.

Boil the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes until they float. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Stir in the sun-dried tomatoes, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Let simmer for 5 minutes.

Combine and Bake

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss to coat them well in the sauce. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and place the burrata on top. Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes until bubbly and golden.

Serve

Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh basil, and serve hot. Enjoy your deliciously romantic meal!

Serve this dish with a side salad and a glass of your favorite wine for a complete experience.

Pro Tips

For a richer flavor, let the burrata sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before baking. This enhances its creamy texture and makes it even more delectable.

Storing and Reheating

If you find yourself with leftovers, you can store the baked gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, cover the dish with foil to prevent it from drying out, and reheat in a 350°F (175°C) oven for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. You can also add a splash of olive oil or a few spoonfuls of crushed tomatoes to keep the sauce moist during reheating.

For meal prep, consider assembling the dish without baking. You can prepare the gnocchi and sauce ahead of time, storing them separately in the fridge. When you’re ready to serve, simply combine them in a baking dish, top with burrata, and bake as directed. This method also allows flavors to deepen overnight.

Variations to Try

Feel free to get creative with this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables. Spinach or kale can be stirred into the sauce just before adding the gnocchi, allowing them to wilt down and incorporate. Mushrooms can also add an earthy flavor; simply sauté them along with garlic to enhance the sauce's depth.

For a lighter version, you can swap out the burrata for a lower-fat cheese such as ricotta or cottage cheese. While the texture will be different, both options provide creaminess and can be dolloped on top before baking for a slightly healthier twist. Additionally, if you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free gnocchi made from potato or rice flour.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe. Just ensure it's fresh for the best texture.

→ What can I substitute for burrata?

If burrata is unavailable, you can use fresh mozzarella or ricotta cheese as an alternative.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and gnocchi ahead of time, then assemble and bake right before serving.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

A crisp green salad and some crusty bread are perfect accompaniments to this baked gnocchi!