How To Make A Meatball Gnocchi Pesto Pasta Bake

mozzarella cheese

🥗Healthier: part-skim mozzarella

💰Cheaper: provolone cheese

Part-skim mozzarella reduces fat while still melting well.

pesto sauce

🥗Healthier: homemade pesto

💰Cheaper: spinach + olive oil

Homemade pesto can be healthier and cheaper than store-bought.

parmesan cheese

🥗Healthier: nutritional yeast

💰Cheaper: grated pecorino

Nutritional yeast is a dairy-free alternative with a cheesy flavor.

meatballs

🥗Healthier: turkey meatballs

💰Cheaper: ground beef

Turkey is leaner and can be more affordable than pre-made meatballs.

Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).

Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until they float, then drain.

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and sauté garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add spinach and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.

In a large bowl, combine cooked gnocchi, meatballs, pesto sauce, sautéed spinach, and cherry tomatoes.

Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and spread evenly.

Top with shredded mozzarella and grated parmesan cheese.

Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.

Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Cooking Techniques

Spice Level:

Allergens