Baked Gnocchi with Tomato and Basil
If you're on the lookout for a delicious, comforting dish that can be made with minimal effort, our baked gnocchi with tomato and basil is perfect for you. Using an air fryer, you can achieve a delightful dish that is crispy on the outside and soft and tender on the inside. This recipe is not only easy to make but also boasts vibrant flavours that are sure to please family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 500g fresh potato gnocchi
- 400g canned tomatoes (chopped)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- A handful of fresh basil leaves
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 150g mozzarella cheese, shredded
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese to serve
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Sauce
Begin by heating the olive oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and chopped onion, cooking until the onion becomes translucent. This should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Next, add the canned tomatoes and bring the mixture to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Once the sauce has thickened slightly, typically after 10 minutes, stir in the fresh basil leaves. Remove from heat and set aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Gnocchi
Preheat your air fryer to 200°C. Spread the fresh gnocchi evenly in an air fryer-safe baking dish. Pour the prepared tomato and basil sauce over the gnocchi, ensuring that all pieces are well coated. Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella evenly on top.
Step 3: Air Fry the Gnocchi
Place the baking dish into the air fryer basket and cook for approximately 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbling and golden brown. Keep an eye on the dish to prevent burning.
Step 4: Serve and Enjoy
Once cooked, carefully remove the dish from the air fryer. Allow it to cool slightly before serving. For added flavour, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top just before serving. Enjoy your delightful, baked gnocchi with tomato and basil!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh gnocchi: Fresh or homemade gnocchi will yield better results than packaged, shelf-stable versions.
- Adjust seasoning: After preparing the tomato sauce, taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary. A pinch of sugar can also help balance acidity if the tomatoes are too tangy.
- Herb variations: While basil complements this dish well, you might experiment with other herbs such as oregano or thyme for a change in flavour.
- Cheese choices: For a different taste, try swapping mozzarella with other melting cheeses like provolone or fontina.
Nutritional Information
Approximate values per serving:
- Calories: 460
- Protein: 15g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 52g
- Fibre: 5g
- Sodium: 620mg
Conclusion
This baked gnocchi with tomato and basil is a simple yet flavourful recipe perfect for any occasion. Using the air fryer not only makes it convenient but also produces a wonderfully crispy crust and a gooey, cheesy topping. Whether you're cooking for your family or hosting friends, this dish is sure to impress!