One-pan easy gnocchi with tomato sauce recipe (gluten free) (2024)

This gnocchi with tomato sauce recipe is packed with pillowy cauliflower gnocchi tossed in a rich tomato sauce, vibrant spinach, and creamy ricotta cheese. Fresh herbs add the finishing touch, creating a delightful weeknight dinner gnocchi dish that comes together in under 20 minutes. This one pan meal is made with simple ingredients and is a great recipe the whole family will enjoy.

This easy recipe is naturally gluten-free thanks to the cauliflower gnocchi, and it can easily be made low-fat or dairy-free with simple substitutions. This gnocchi with tomato sauce is an easy vegetarian recipe but you can always add the protein of your choice. As someone who is celiac, lactose intolerant and allergic to nuts, its so important to me to provide recipes that can cater to more than one dietary restriction or food alergy.

Whether you’re short on time, following a specific diet, or simply looking for a delicious and easy meal, this one-pan gnocchi skillet is sure to become a new favorite.

why you’ll love this recipe

• Easy to Make:This gnocchi with tomato sauce only requires a handful of readily available ingredients and involves minimal steps. You simply cook the gnocchi, simmer the sauce, add spinach, and stir in cheese.
• 15 Minutes or Less:The cauliflower gnocchi cooks quickly, and the sauce comes together in a flash. Prepping the spinach and cheese beforehand saves even more time.
• One-Pan Wonder:Everything cooks in a single skillet, minimizing cleanup afterwards. No need to juggle multiple pots and pans!
• Perfect for Weeknights & Meal Prep:It can be whipped up in under 20 minutes, making it ideal for hectic schedules. Leftovers freeze beautifully in individual portions for quick future meals.
• Family-Friendly:The creamy sauce, soft gnocchi, and vibrant spinach are generally well-liked by children. Plus, you can easily customize it by adding other kid-approved vegetables like chopped mushrooms, bell peppers, or broccoli.
• Gluten-Free:Naturally gluten-free cauliflower gnocchi makes this dish suitable for those with gluten sensitivities. Just double-check the labels of other ingredients to ensure they’re certified gluten-free.
• Low-Fat Options:You can make this gnocchi with tomato sauce low-fat by using low-fat ricotta and Parmesan cheese, or skipping the Parmesan altogether. Alternatively, swap the ricotta cheese with a dollop of low-fat Greek yogurt for a tangy, lower-fat twist.
• Dairy-Free Options:Opt for plant-based ricotta alternatives made from cashews or tofu to create a dairy-free version. You can also use vegan Parmesan cheese or simply omit it completely. Additionally, consider substituting the tomato sauce with coconut milk for a creamy, dairy-free base.

ingredients & substitutions

extra virgin olive oil:This is used for cooking the gnocchi. You could substitute with another cooking oil like canola or avocado oil.

Cauliflower gnocchi:The pillowy gnocchi is the star of the gnocchi with tomato sauce! It provides the soft, pillowy texture. You can use any homemade gnocchi, store-bought potato gnocchi, pre-made gnocchi or homemade ricotta gnocchi. Just remember if you don’t use cauliflower gnocchi it will not be as low carb. Your local grocery store will have a variety of store-bought gnocchi. Make sure you choose a gluten free store-bought gnocchi for a gluten free recipe. You can use shelf-stable gnocchi or refrigerated gnocchi.

Crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce:The base of the sauce. You could use tomato puree, red sauce, tomato paste, diced tomatoes, fresh tomato sauce, homemade tomato sauce or even marinara sauce instead. To make an easy tomato sauce just mix tomato puree, tomato paste and some italian seasoning and cook it on low heat until it is thick like tomato sauce.

Ricotta cheese:Creates a creamy tomato sauce. Substitute with cottage cheese, cream cheese or even a dollop of Greek yogurt for a tangier flavor. Use dairy free for a dairy free recipe.

Spinach:fresh spinach adds a veggie boost. Kale or Swiss chard would work as substitutes.

Parmesan cheese:Adds a salty, savory flavor. You could use other hard Italian cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago.

Fresh basil and parsley:These add a bright, herby flavor at the end. Feel free to use any combination of oregano, black pepper, sea salt, basil leaves, garlic, oregano or thyme or even a blend of italian seasoning.

taste & texture

If you love easy, healthy recipes you’ll love this restaurant quality dish! This tomato gnocchi recipe has a satisfying blend of flavors and textures. The cauliflower gnocchi is soft and slightly chewy. The tomato sauce is rich and tangy. The ricotta adds a touch of creaminess. The spinach provides a slight earthiness. The fresh herbs give the dish a bright, aromatic finish. Overall, this gnocchi with tomato sauce is a hearty and flavorful meal that’s also surprisingly light.

directions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the cauliflower gnocchi and cook, stirring occasionally, until golden brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes or according to package directions.
2. Stir in the crushed tomatoes or your own tomato sauce recipe, bringing to a simmer. Reduce heat and simmer for 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
3. Add the spinach to the simple tomato sauce and gnocchi. Cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Remove the pan from heat and stir in the ricotta cheese and Parmesan cheese. Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi, ensuring they are coated in the sauce.
5. Garnish with fresh basil and parsley before serving.

expert tips & tricks

• If you prefer a smoother sauce,use a hand immersion blender to blend some of the tomato sauce before adding the spinach.
• For a richer gnocchi with tomato sauce flavor,use full-fat ricotta cheese.
• Feel free to substitute other fresh herbs like oregano or thyme for the basil and parsley.
• This gnocchi with tomato sauce can be easily doubled to feed a larger crowd.
• For a vegetarian protein boost, add cooked crumbled tofu or chickpeas to the skillet with the gnocchi.
• For a spicy twist add red pepper flakes or chili flakes on top.
• Add fresh cherry tomatoes, whole tomatoes or fresh tomatoes diced up for a deeper tomato flavor.
• For a cheesier dish top with fresh mozzarella cheese for the last 3-5 minute before removing from heat.
• Use a tomato cream sauce for a creamy twist or add heavy cream.
• To make this gnocchi with tomato sauce into a casserole, add all ingredients to a baking dish and bake for 30 minutes.
• Add 1 minced garlic clove when you are cooking gnocchi for a rich garlic flavor.

how to make this low fat or healthier

To create a low-fat version of this gnocchi with tomato sauce, simply skip the Parmesan cheese or opt for a low-fat alternative. Additionally, replace the ricotta cheese with either low-fat ricotta cheese or a dollop of low-fat Greek yogurt for a tangy twist. Instead of pan trying the gnocchi, you can boil it in water or chicken broth to avoid using oil.

how to make this vegan

For a vegan gnocchi with tomato sauce, swap the ricotta cheese with a vegan alternative made from cashews or tofu. You can also find vegan Parmesan cheese in most grocery stores, or simply omit it and enjoy the dish without it.

how to serve, store and meal prep

This easy gnocchi recipe is perfect for immediate enjoyment or for make-ahead meals. Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, portion the cooled gnocchi skillet into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat from the refrigerator,warm the gnocchi with tomato sauce in a skillet on the stovetop over medium heat until heated through.If reheating from frozen,thaw the gnocchi in the refrigerator overnight and then warm in the same way.

To meal prep the gnocchi with tomato sauce individual portions, divide the cooked and cooled gnocchi skillet into separate containers. These individual portions make great grab-and-go lunches or quick dinners during the week.

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