Authentic Italy Gnocchi alla Sorrentina Recipe | Traditional Baked Potato Gnocchi
Italy Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a classic baked pasta-style dish from the coastal town of Sorrento in the Campania region. This comforting Italian favorite features soft potato gnocchi baked in a rich tomato sauce with fresh mozzarella, Parmesan cheese, and fragrant basil until golden and bubbling. Known for its simple ingredients and authentic Mediterranean flavors, Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a staple of Italian home cooking and family gatherings.
The homemade potato gnocchi are gently boiled before being tossed in a flavorful tomato sauce made with garlic, olive oil, and basil. Fresh mozzarella melts beautifully throughout the dish, while grated Parmesan creates a delicious golden crust during baking. The combination of pillowy gnocchi, creamy cheese, and savory tomato sauce makes this recipe both comforting and satisfying.
Perfect for lunch or dinner, Italy Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a timeless Italian classic that pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad and crusty bread.
Cooking Method
- Boil the potatoes with their skins on until tender, about 30–35 minutes. Peel and mash while still warm.
- Mix the mashed potatoes with the flour, egg, and salt until a soft dough forms.
- Divide the dough into portions, roll each into long ropes, and cut into 1-inch (2.5 cm) pieces. Roll each piece over a fork to create ridges if desired.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi in batches until they float to the surface, about 2–3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon.
- Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Heat the olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté the garlic for 1 minute, then add the crushed tomatoes, basil, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 15 minutes.
- Gently toss the cooked gnocchi with most of the tomato sauce.
- Transfer the gnocchi to a lightly greased baking dish. Add the diced mozzarella evenly over the top and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese. Spoon the remaining tomato sauce over everything.
- Bake for 20–25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately while hot.
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