Bubbling cheese, pillowy gnocchi, and a sun-kissed tomato sauce: that’s the soul of Gnocchi alla Sorrentina. This classic dish hails from sunny Sorrento on Italy’s Amalfi Coast, and it’s pure comfort from the first forkful to the last scoop of caramelized mozzarella from the pan. If you crave wholesome, rustic Italian flavors layered with simplicity and vibrant ingredients, Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is about to become your new favorite.

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll be amazed how a handful of humble pantry staples transform into something truly memorable. Each ingredient in Gnocchi alla Sorrentina brings character—fluffy gnocchi for a tender bite, luxurious mozzarella for melt, and ripe tomatoes for a luscious sauce.

Gnocchi: Homemade or good-quality store-bought gnocchi give your dish that signature soft, pillowy texture—don’t skip this step!
San Marzano Tomatoes: These tomatoes are sweet, low on acidity, and make the sauce the star; choose whole, canned San Marzanos if possible.
Mozzarella Cheese: Fresh mozzarella melts gorgeously and creates those classic, stringy cheese pulls throughout.
Parmigiano-Reggiano: A shower of parm finishes the dish with a salty, nutty depth; freshly grated is worth the tiny extra effort.
Fresh Basil: Torn basil leaves infuse the entire pan with a peppery, herbal brightness that’s unmistakably Italian.
Extra Virgin Olive Oil: A glug of good oil adds richness and helps the flavors meld; best to use the best you have.
Garlic: One or two cloves, gently sautéed, anchor the sauce with mellow aromatics.
Salt & Pepper: Simple seasoning elevates every ingredient, so season to taste as you go.

How to Make Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Add the gnocchi and cook them in batches—they only take a minute or two and are done when they float to the top. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them directly onto a plate. If you’re making homemade gnocchi, now’s the time to give yourself a well-deserved pat on the back!

Step 2: Simmer the Tomato Sauce

In an oven-safe skillet or a deep sauté pan, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the gently crushed garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant (but not browned). Pour in the San Marzano tomatoes (crush them by hand as they go in) and season generously with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and the flavors mingle together.

Step 3: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Once your sauce has thickened, remove the garlic cloves. Toss the cooked, drained gnocchi into the bubbling tomato sauce along with about two-thirds of the torn basil leaves. Mix gently to coat every gnocchi with sauce, being careful not to break them up.

Step 4: Add Cheese and Basil

Tuck torn chunks of fresh mozzarella all over and between the gnocchi, then scatter a generous handful of grated Parmigiano-Reggiano across the top. Finish with the last of your basil leaves for a punch of color and flavor—even before it hits the oven, your kitchen will smell incredible.

Step 5: Bake to Perfection

Preheat your oven broiler while assembling. Slide your skillet or baking dish under the broiler just until the cheese melts into gooey puddles and you see golden-brown spots start to bubble—usually about 5 minutes. Watch it closely: that perfect top is pure Gnocchi alla Sorrentina magic!

How to Serve Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Garnishes

Just before bringing your Gnocchi alla Sorrentina to the table, sprinkle on a few extra torn basil leaves and a touch more Parmigiano-Reggiano. If you like a little heat, a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes works beautifully, but letting the vibrant herbs and bubbling cheese shine is really all you need.

Side Dishes

Pair your Gnocchi alla Sorrentina with a crisp green salad tossed in a citrusy vinaigrette, or some char-grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Crusty bread is a must—you’ll want it for scooping up every last drop of sauce and mozzarella.

Creative Ways to Present

You can bake and serve Gnocchi alla Sorrentina family-style in a big, rustic skillet or small, individual ceramic dishes for a bistro touch. It also makes an impressive starter for a dinner party: just portion into ramekins and finish each with a flourish of fresh herbs.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

To store leftover Gnocchi alla Sorrentina, let the dish cool to room temperature first. Then, cover it tightly and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days. The flavors will deepen, and the gnocchi stay delightfully soft.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Gnocchi alla Sorrentina! Once cooled, transfer portions to airtight containers or wrap tightly in foil. Freeze for up to 1 month for best taste. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve texture and flavor.

Reheating

Reheat Gnocchi alla Sorrentina gently in the oven or microwave until the cheese is bubbling and the gnocchi are heated through. If the casserole looks dry, splash a bit of tomato sauce or water over the top before covering and reheating, and finish with a fresh handful of basil.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! While homemade is traditional, high-quality store-bought gnocchi work perfectly here and make the recipe weeknight-friendly.

Which type of mozzarella is best for Gnocchi alla Sorrentina?

Fresh mozzarella provides the classic stretchy, melty experience, but you can use low-moisture mozzarella if that’s what you have; just avoid pre-shredded cheese for the best melt.

Is Gnocchi alla Sorrentina vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian-friendly as written. Just make sure your Parmigiano-Reggiano is made with vegetarian rennet if serving to strict vegetarians.

Can I make this dish ahead?

Definitely! Assemble Gnocchi alla Sorrentina in advance and refrigerate. Bake just before serving, adding a couple of extra minutes to account for the chill.

What wine pairs well with Gnocchi alla Sorrentina?

A crisp, dry Italian white like Falanghina cuts through the rich cheese, while a light red such as Chianti or Pinot Noir complements the tomatoes and basil gorgeously.

Final Thoughts

If you love homestyle Italian cooking with big, bold flavors, you absolutely have to try Gnocchi alla Sorrentina. It’s the kind of recipe that brings people together, makes your kitchen smell like an Italian trattoria, and delivers pure comfort with every cheesy, saucy bite. Gather your loved ones, break out your favorite baking dish, and dive in!

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina Recipe