Gnocchi pizza brings together the soft, pillowy goodness of gnocchi and the tasty toppings of pizza. This fun twist is perfect for a cozy meal at home!
I love how quick and easy it is to make! Just bake the gnocchi, throw on your favorite toppings, and enjoy a yummy combo that will surprise your taste buds! 🍕
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Potato Gnocchi: These are the star of the dish! You can find them fresh or frozen. If you can’t get potato gnocchi, try using cauliflower gnocchi for a lighter option or ricotta gnocchi for a creamier texture.
Marinara or Pizza Sauce: Any jar of store-bought sauce works great! You can also use homemade sauce or even pesto for a unique twist! Just keep in mind that pesto may be a bit more intense in flavor.
Cheese: While I love the stretchiness of mozzarella, feel free to swap part of it with provolone for a bit more flavor. For a dairy-free option, try using vegan cheese that melts well.
Pepperoni: Mini pepperoni adds a fun bite! If you prefer a healthier option, try turkey or chicken pepperoni. For a vegetarian twist, use mushrooms, bell peppers, or sliced black olives instead.
How Do You Get Gnocchi Crispy on the Outside?
Achieving that perfect crispiness on your gnocchi is key! Start by heating your skillet over medium heat and giving it enough time for the oil to warm up properly. Here’s how:
- Add the gnocchi once the oil is hot, spacing them out to avoid steaming.
- Stir occasionally and watch carefully; they should take about 5-7 mins to turn golden brown.
- If you want a crunchier texture, don’t be afraid to let them sit for a minute or two without stirring.
The balance of cooking creates a delicious contrast with the soft absorbing center of the gnocchi after baking. Enjoy this delightful dish! 🍽️
Gnocchi Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 pound (450g) potato gnocchi
- 1 cup marinara or pizza sauce
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (or sliced fresh mozzarella)
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, sliced thinly (for garnish)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious gnocchi pizza will take about 30 minutes from start to finish! You’ll spend around 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and about 15-20 minutes baking the pizza, giving you a warm, cheesy meal in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Begin by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your pizza will bake evenly and come out bubbly and golden!
2. Sauté the Gnocchi:
In an oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the potato gnocchi. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are golden brown and have a crispy outside. When they’re ready, remove the skillet from heat.
3. Add the Sauce:
Spread the marinara or pizza sauce evenly over the cooked gnocchi in the skillet. Make sure all the gnocchi are covered with sauce for maximum flavor!
4. Layer the Cheese:
Sprinkle half of the mozzarella cheese over the sauce. Then, arrange the mini pepperoni slices on top. Finally, add the rest of the mozzarella cheese to create a cheesy layer that will melt beautifully!
5. Sprinkle Parmesan and Season:
Finish off by sprinkling the grated Parmesan cheese over the top. If you like, add dried oregano for a touch of extra flavor. Then, season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake the Pizza:
Carefully transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for about 10-15 minutes. Keep an eye on it as it bakes! You want the cheese to melt, bubble, and turn slightly golden.
7. Cool and Garnish:
Once the pizza is ready, take it out of the oven (be careful, it’s hot!). Let it cool for a couple of minutes. Before serving, garnish with fresh basil leaves for a burst of flavor and color.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice up your gnocchi pizza, serve warm, and enjoy this unique and comforting meal! Perfect for a casual dinner or a fun family treat!
This delightful dish brings together the soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi with the cheesy goodness of pizza, making it a delicious and easy-to-make meal that everyone will love!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen gnocchi, there’s no need to thaw them first. Just add them directly to the skillet according to the recipe instructions. They may take an extra minute or two to crisp up, so keep an eye on them!
Can I Make This Pizza Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi and sauce layer in advance! Assemble everything in the skillet and store it in the fridge. When you’re ready to eat, just pop it in the oven, adding a few extra minutes to the baking time to heat it through.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave a slice or warm it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through. You can add a sprinkle of fresh cheese before reheating for an extra melty touch!
Can I Customize the Toppings?
Definitely! Feel free to get creative with toppings. You can use vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or spinach for a veggie option. Swap the pepperoni for cooked sausage or bacon, or even top it with fresh arugula after it comes out of the oven!
