Baked Gnocchi with Vegetarian Meatballs

The ultimate comfort food just got a plant-based makeover! This baked gnocchi with vegetarian meatballs is a no-fuss, all-flavor kind of meal. Made with pillowy gnocchi, hearty veggie meatballs, and a generous helping of melty cheese, it’s the kind of dinner that will warm you from the inside out. What makes this dish shine is the “dump and bake” style—no pre-cooking needed, just mix everything in a dish, top with cheese, and let the oven do the magic. It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but indulgent enough for weekend comfort. Plus, it’s family-friendly, freezer-friendly, and easy to customize. Add veggies, switch the cheese, or spice it up—make it yours!

Full recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 (16 oz) package shelf-stable potato gnocchi

• 1 (14 oz) jar marinara sauce

• 1/2 cup vegetable broth or water

• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

• 12-15 frozen vegetarian meatballs

• 1/2 tablespoon olive oil

• Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Directions:

1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).

2. In a large baking dish, combine gnocchi, marinara sauce, vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and garlic powder. Stir to evenly coat.

3. Arrange the frozen vegetarian meatballs on top of the gnocchi mixture.

4. Drizzle olive oil lightly over the top.

5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese evenly over the dish.

6. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.

7. Remove foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and slightly golden.

8. Let cool for 5 minutes before garnishing with chopped basil or parsley and serving.

Prep Time: 5 minutes | Cooking Time: 35 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Kcal: 420 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

Why You’ll Love This Baked Gnocchi with Vegetarian Meatballs

This comforting Baked Gnocchi with Vegetarian Meatballs is the definition of a weeknight hero—minimal prep, maximum flavor, and a cozy vibe that brings everyone to the table. Designed for busy home cooks and flavor-seekers alike, this dump-and-bake recipe layers tender gnocchi, hearty vegetarian meatballs, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese into one delicious, bubbly dish. Whether you’re a longtime vegetarian or simply looking to reduce meat without sacrificing satisfaction, this meal checks every box.

Background and Inspiration

This dish is inspired by traditional Italian-American baked pasta classics like baked ziti or lasagna, where noodles and sauce are layered together and baked until bubbling. However, this version brings in a modern twist by using store-bought gnocchi and plant-based meatballs, making the recipe quicker and more accessible without compromising on texture or taste. The popularity of “dump-and-bake” casseroles has grown over recent years as more people look for hands-off meals that are as satisfying as they are simple. This recipe follows that trend but elevates it with gourmet flair—pillowy gnocchi becomes decadently soft in the oven, the marinara thickens and caramelizes slightly, and the cheese adds a golden, bubbly finish.

What Makes This Recipe the Best?

1. No-Boil Simplicity
No need to boil the gnocchi or pre-cook the meatballs. Everything goes into one baking dish, reducing dishes and effort.

2. Versatile and Customizable
Use your favorite brand of vegetarian meatballs—lentil-based, soy-based, or grain-based. You can even make your own. Switch up the cheese or throw in extra vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini to suit your taste.

3. Balanced Nutrition
Gnocchi provides satisfying carbs, the veggie meatballs bring in protein, and marinara sauce offers a dose of lycopene-rich tomatoes. Add a green salad or roasted vegetables on the side and you’ve got a full, balanced meal.

4. Perfect for Meal Prep
This recipe freezes well and reheats beautifully. Make a double batch—eat one tonight, freeze the other for a busy night.

5. Family-Friendly
Even picky eaters love this cheesy bake. It’s comforting, familiar, and packed with flavors that please kids and adults alike.

6. Budget-Friendly
Using pantry staples like jarred marinara, shelf-stable gnocchi, and frozen vegetarian meatballs keeps this dish affordable while still delivering gourmet taste.

7. Impressive Enough for Guests
With its golden cheese topping and rich aroma, this dish looks and smells like it came from a restaurant kitchen—but it’s all homemade.

Ingredients Deep Dive

• Gnocchi – These small potato dumplings cook right in the sauce, absorbing flavor while becoming tender and rich. Shelf-stable gnocchi is affordable and easy to keep on hand.
• Vegetarian Meatballs – Brands like Gardein, Beyond, or homemade lentil balls work beautifully. They give the dish a hearty bite and mimic the satisfying feel of traditional meatballs without the meat.
• Marinara Sauce – Go for a high-quality jarred option or homemade sauce. The tomato base provides acidity, sweetness, and a silky texture that binds everything together.
• Cheese – Mozzarella melts to give that gooey, stringy cheese pull, while Parmesan adds sharp, salty depth. Use plant-based cheese if making vegan.
• Herbs and Seasonings – Italian seasoning, garlic powder, and red pepper flakes infuse every bite with classic flavor, and fresh herbs at the end give a pop of color and brightness.

Tips for Success

• Use a deep baking dish: This helps prevent spillover and allows room for extra toppings or veggies.
• Let it rest before serving: Allow 5–10 minutes after baking so the cheese sets slightly and flavors meld.
• Double the batch: This is a great freezer meal—assemble, cover, and freeze before baking. Then bake straight from frozen (add about 10-15 minutes to the baking time).

Add-Ons and Variations

• Add Vegetables: Layer in sautéed mushrooms, baby spinach, or chopped zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Make it Spicy: Use arrabbiata sauce instead of marinara or add extra chili flakes.
• Go Vegan: Use dairy-free mozzarella and Parmesan alternatives. Plenty of store-bought vegan cheese options melt beautifully.
• Boost Protein: Toss in a handful of canned lentils or white beans for even more plant-based protein.

Serving Suggestions

This baked gnocchi is hearty enough to stand alone, but here are some sides to elevate your meal:

• Garlic Bread – Crunchy and buttery, it pairs perfectly with saucy pasta.
• Simple Arugula Salad – Peppery greens with lemon vinaigrette cut through the richness.
• Roasted Veggies – Try broccoli, Brussels sprouts, or cauliflower to keep it wholesome and colorful.
• Glass of Red Wine – A bold Italian red like Chianti or a lighter Pinot Noir complements the tomato sauce and cheese.

Perfect for All Occasions

This recipe works for:

• Weeknight Dinners – Dump, bake, and relax.
• Potlucks – Easy to make ahead and transport.
• Holiday Gatherings – A hearty vegetarian option on the table.
• Back-to-School Meals – Quick and satisfying for hungry students and busy parents.

Conclusion

The beauty of this Baked Gnocchi with Vegetarian Meatballs lies in its simplicity. You don’t need advanced cooking skills, expensive ingredients, or hours in the kitchen to create a warm, satisfying, and nutritious dinner. It’s a one-dish wonder that brings people together—hearty enough for meat lovers, wholesome enough for vegetarians, and easy enough for anyone to make. If you’re searching for a comforting yet modern vegetarian meal that fits today’s busy lifestyle without sacrificing flavor or visual appeal, this baked gnocchi will absolutely deliver. Keep it in your weekly rotation and wow your family and guests with this cozy classic.