33+ Irresistible Italian Bake Recipes You Need to Try

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Italian cuisine is renowned for its rich flavors, comforting textures, and time-honored techniques.

One of the most beloved aspects of Italian cooking is the art of baking.

From the crusty, golden perfection of pizza to the melt-in-your-mouth goodness of cheesy lasagna, Italian baked dishes are the epitome of delicious home-cooked meals.

In this article, we’re exploring 33+ of the best Italian bake recipes that will transport your taste buds straight to the heart of Italy.

Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a beginner in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings for hearty, flavorful Italian fare.

So, preheat your oven and get ready to bake some Italian magic into your meals!

33+ Irresistible Italian Bake Recipes You Need to Try

Baking is an integral part of Italian culinary tradition, and the recipes shared in this article offer a wide range of options to explore.

Whether you’re craving savory dishes like lasagna, focaccia, or stuffed pasta, or sweet treats like ricotta cheesecake and Italian bread pudding, there’s something for every taste.

These 33+ Italian bake recipes bring the authentic flavors of Italy right to your kitchen, making every meal a celebration of tradition and taste.

So gather your ingredients, fire up the oven, and enjoy a slice of Italy with each delicious dish!

Classic Italian Baked Ziti

Baked ziti is a quintessential Italian-American dish that combines the comforting flavors of pasta, tangy marinara sauce, creamy cheese, and aromatic herbs. This hearty and satisfying dish is perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even a cozy night at home. It’s a one-dish wonder that’s both simple to prepare and absolutely delicious, with layers of gooey cheese that make every bite irresistible.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 4 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 pound ground Italian sausage (or ground beef)
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, then add the ground sausage. Cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces.
  4. Stir in the marinara sauce and Italian seasoning. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked pasta, sauce mixture, ricotta cheese, and half of the mozzarella cheese. Mix until well combined.
  6. Transfer the pasta mixture to a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
  7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving.

This Classic Italian Baked Ziti is the ultimate comfort food. It’s cheesy, saucy, and packed with bold flavors that bring the essence of Italy to your table. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a crisp green salad for a complete meal that everyone will adore.

Italian Baked Eggplant Parmesan

Eggplant Parmesan is a classic Italian dish that celebrates the humble eggplant by layering it with rich tomato sauce, gooey cheese, and a crispy breadcrumb topping. This dish is perfect for vegetarians or anyone who loves hearty, meatless meals. It’s a delightful combination of textures and flavors that’s sure to become a favorite in your home.

Ingredients:

  • 2 large eggplants, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1½ cups Italian breadcrumbs
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Olive oil for frying

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Dredge each eggplant slice in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Fry the eggplant slices until golden brown on both sides. Drain on paper towels.
  4. In a greased baking dish, spread a thin layer of marinara sauce. Arrange a layer of fried eggplant slices over the sauce.
  5. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the eggplant. Repeat the layers until all ingredients are used, ending with a cheese layer.
  6. Sprinkle oregano and garlic powder on top.
  7. Bake for 30 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  8. Let it cool slightly before serving.

Italian Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a hearty, flavorful dish that will impress even the most discerning palates. Its rich, cheesy layers and crispy eggplant make it a show-stopper for any meal. Pair it with a glass of red wine and a simple Caesar salad for a truly Italian experience.

Italian Baked Stuffed Shells

Stuffed shells are an Italian classic that never fails to impress. These jumbo pasta shells are filled with a creamy ricotta mixture, topped with savory marinara sauce, and baked to perfection. The dish is a symphony of textures and flavors, making it an excellent choice for special occasions or indulgent weeknight dinners.

Ingredients:

  • 1 box jumbo pasta shells
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon dried parsley
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook the jumbo shells according to package instructions. Drain and let them cool.
  3. In a large bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, garlic, basil, parsley, salt, and pepper until smooth.
  4. Fill each shell with the ricotta mixture using a spoon or piping bag.
  5. Spread a layer of marinara sauce on the bottom of a greased 9×13-inch baking dish. Arrange the stuffed shells on top.
  6. Spoon the remaining marinara sauce over the shells and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella.
  7. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and slightly browned.
  8. Let the shells rest for 5 minutes before serving.

These Italian Baked Stuffed Shells are a crowd-pleasing favorite. With their rich, cheesy filling and savory marinara sauce, they’re a dish that exudes comfort and elegance. Serve them with crusty bread and a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Italian Baked Chicken Parmesan

Chicken Parmesan is a timeless Italian-American classic that combines crispy breaded chicken with marinara sauce and melted cheese. This dish delivers a perfect harmony of textures—crispy, juicy, and cheesy—all baked to perfection. It’s a versatile recipe that works well for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Serve it over spaghetti or alongside roasted vegetables for a complete and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 1½ cups Italian breadcrumbs
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Olive oil spray

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness. Season with garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Dredge each chicken breast in flour, dip into the beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
  4. Place the chicken on the baking sheet and spray lightly with olive oil. Bake for 20 minutes.
  5. Remove the chicken from the oven and spoon marinara sauce over each piece. Sprinkle with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  6. Return to the oven and bake for an additional 10 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the chicken is cooked through.
  7. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Italian Baked Chicken Parmesan is a comforting dish that’s sure to impress your family and guests. The crispy chicken, tangy marinara sauce, and melted cheese come together in perfect harmony. Pair it with garlic bread and a fresh garden salad for an unforgettable meal.

Italian Baked Lasagna Rolls

Italian Baked Lasagna Rolls are a creative twist on traditional lasagna. Instead of layering, each noodle is filled with a delicious ricotta mixture, rolled up, and baked in marinara sauce with melted cheese. This dish is fun to prepare and makes serving individual portions a breeze. Perfect for family dinners or entertaining, these lasagna rolls deliver all the classic flavors in an elegant presentation.

Ingredients:

  • 12 lasagna noodles
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 egg
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook lasagna noodles according to package instructions. Drain and lay flat on parchment paper.
  3. In a bowl, mix ricotta, 1 cup of mozzarella, Parmesan, egg, spinach, basil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Spread a layer of the ricotta mixture onto each noodle. Roll the noodles tightly and place them seam-side down in a greased baking dish.
  5. Pour marinara sauce over the rolls and sprinkle with the remaining mozzarella cheese.
  6. Cover with foil and bake for 20 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Italian Baked Lasagna Rolls are a delightful take on a classic dish, offering the same comforting flavors with an elegant twist. These rolls are perfect for any gathering or a cozy family dinner. Serve them with a side of garlic knots and a crisp Caesar salad for a complete Italian-inspired meal.

Italian Baked Seafood Casserole

Italian Baked Seafood Casserole is a luxurious dish that showcases the vibrant flavors of the Mediterranean. Featuring tender shrimp, flaky fish, and a creamy tomato sauce, this casserole is topped with a golden breadcrumb crust. It’s an impressive dish that’s surprisingly easy to make and ideal for special dinners or when you’re in the mood for something indulgent.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
  • 1 pound white fish fillets (e.g., cod or haddock), cut into chunks
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup Italian breadcrumbs
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Sauté the garlic until fragrant, then add the marinara sauce and heavy cream. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. Arrange the shrimp and fish in a greased baking dish. Pour the creamy marinara sauce over the seafood.
  4. In a small bowl, mix breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, thyme, and a drizzle of olive oil. Sprinkle this mixture over the casserole.
  5. Bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the seafood is cooked through and the topping is golden brown.
  6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Italian Baked Seafood Casserole is a dish that transports you straight to the Italian coastline. The creamy sauce, tender seafood, and crispy topping make it a luxurious and satisfying meal. Serve it with a side of crusty bread and a refreshing arugula salad for a complete and memorable dining experience.

Italian Baked Ziti with Sausage

Italian Baked Ziti with Sausage is a hearty and comforting dish that’s packed with rich, savory flavors. The combination of ziti pasta, Italian sausage, marinara sauce, and melted cheese creates a crowd-pleasing meal that’s easy to prepare. Whether for a family dinner or a potluck, this baked ziti recipe is a guaranteed hit. Its layers of cheesy goodness and zesty sausage make every bite irresistible.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ziti pasta
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1 cup ricotta cheese
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. Cook ziti pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the Italian sausage until browned. Add marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked pasta, ricotta cheese, half the mozzarella, and the sausage mixture. Mix until evenly coated.
  5. Transfer the mixture to a greased baking dish. Sprinkle the remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top.
  6. Bake uncovered for 25 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  7. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Italian Baked Ziti with Sausage is a versatile and delicious dish that brings people together. The creamy, cheesy layers and savory sausage make it an instant favorite. Pair it with garlic breadsticks and a side of mixed greens for a satisfying Italian-inspired meal.

Italian Baked Eggplant Parmesan

Italian Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a vegetarian delight that doesn’t compromise on flavor. With layers of crispy baked eggplant, rich marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese, this dish is a perfect balance of indulgence and comfort. It’s a healthier take on the classic fried version and pairs wonderfully with pasta or a simple green salad.

Ingredients:

  • 2 medium eggplants, sliced into ¼-inch rounds
  • 1 cup all-purpose flour
  • 2 large eggs, beaten
  • 2 cups Italian breadcrumbs
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • Olive oil spray
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. Dip each eggplant slice into flour, then into the beaten eggs, and coat with breadcrumbs.
  3. Arrange the eggplant slices on the baking sheet. Spray lightly with olive oil and bake for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
  4. In a greased baking dish, layer marinara sauce, baked eggplant, and mozzarella cheese. Repeat layers, finishing with a sprinkle of Parmesan.
  5. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
  6. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Italian Baked Eggplant Parmesan is a satisfying, meat-free option that’s bursting with classic Italian flavors. Its crispy yet tender layers, paired with marinara sauce and melted cheese, make it a dish that even meat-lovers will enjoy. Serve it with crusty bread and a glass of red wine for a complete meal.

Italian Baked Stuffed Peppers

Italian Baked Stuffed Peppers are a colorful and flavorful dish that’s as visually appealing as it is delicious. Bell peppers are filled with a savory mixture of ground beef, rice, marinara sauce, and melted cheese, then baked to perfection. This versatile recipe is great for meal prepping or serving as a main course for a family dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 4 large bell peppers (any color), tops removed and seeds scooped out
  • 1 pound ground beef or Italian sausage
  • 1 cup cooked rice
  • 1 cup marinara sauce
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
  • Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and cook the ground beef until browned. Add garlic powder, Italian seasoning, and marinara sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes.
  3. In a bowl, mix the cooked beef, rice, and half the mozzarella cheese. Stuff the mixture into the prepared bell peppers.
  4. Arrange the peppers in the baking dish. Top with remaining mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
  5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is bubbly.
  6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Italian Baked Stuffed Peppers are a wholesome and flavorful dish that’s easy to customize to your liking. The tender peppers, savory filling, and melted cheese make this recipe a go-to favorite. Serve it with a side of garlic bread or a fresh Italian salad for a well-rounded meal.

Italian Baked Meatball Casserole

Italian Baked Meatball Casserole is a comforting and hearty dish that combines tender meatballs, marinara sauce, and gooey melted cheese. This casserole is perfect for feeding a crowd or as a make-ahead meal for busy nights. With layers of rich flavors and satisfying textures, it’s a family favorite that’s easy to prepare and guaranteed to impress.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • ½ cup breadcrumbs
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 large egg
  • 2 teaspoons dried parsley
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder
  • Olive oil for cooking

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, mix ground beef, breadcrumbs, Parmesan cheese, egg, parsley, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Form into small meatballs.
  3. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat and brown the meatballs on all sides.
  4. Arrange the meatballs in the baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over them and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
  5. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and the meatballs are fully cooked.
  6. Serve hot with spaghetti or crusty bread.

Italian Baked Meatball Casserole is a hearty and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The savory meatballs, rich sauce, and melted cheese create a meal that feels like a warm embrace. Pair it with a green salad and garlic knots for a classic Italian dinner everyone will love.

Italian Baked Caprese Chicken

Italian Baked Caprese Chicken is a fresh and vibrant dish inspired by the classic Caprese salad. Juicy chicken breasts are topped with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella, then baked to perfection. Finished with a drizzle of balsamic glaze, this dish is light, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or an elegant dinner party centerpiece.

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 large tomatoes, sliced
  • 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Balsamic glaze for drizzling
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grease a baking dish.
  2. Season the chicken breasts with oregano, salt, and pepper. Heat olive oil in a skillet and sear the chicken for 2 minutes on each side.
  3. Place the chicken in the baking dish. Top each breast with tomato slices, mozzarella, and fresh basil leaves.
  4. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese is melted.
  5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Italian Baked Caprese Chicken is a simple yet elegant dish that captures the essence of Italian cuisine. The combination of fresh ingredients and bold flavors makes it a standout recipe. Serve it with a side of roasted vegetables or a crisp green salad for a healthy, delicious meal.

Italian Baked Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni

Italian Baked Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni is a creamy and satisfying vegetarian dish that’s packed with flavor. Tubes of pasta are stuffed with a rich spinach and ricotta filling, then baked in marinara sauce and topped with melted cheese. This dish is perfect for entertaining or enjoying a cozy family dinner, offering a delightful balance of creamy, cheesy, and tangy flavors.

Ingredients:

  • 12 cannelloni tubes
  • 2 cups ricotta cheese
  • 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
  • 1 egg
  • ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 cups marinara sauce
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
  2. In a bowl, mix ricotta, spinach, egg, Parmesan cheese, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  3. Cook cannelloni tubes according to package instructions until slightly softened. Drain and cool.
  4. Fill each tube with the ricotta mixture and arrange in the baking dish. Pour marinara sauce over the top and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
  5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Italian Baked Spinach and Ricotta Cannelloni is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s perfect for any occasion. The creamy filling, tangy marinara sauce, and cheesy topping make it a crowd-pleaser. Pair it with garlic bread and a fresh Italian salad for a complete and satisfying meal.

Italian Baked Polenta with Mushrooms

Italian Baked Polenta with Mushrooms is a rich and flavorful dish that combines creamy polenta with sautéed mushrooms in a savory, cheesy bake. The polenta offers a satisfying base while the mushrooms bring an earthy depth, making it a comforting yet elegant meal. This dish is perfect for both a hearty vegetarian dinner or as a side dish to complement roasted meats.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup polenta
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 pound mixed mushrooms, sliced
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon thyme
  • 1½ cups shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
  2. In a medium saucepan, bring the vegetable broth to a boil. Slowly whisk in the polenta, stirring constantly to avoid lumps. Cook for 5-7 minutes until thickened. Stir in butter and half of the Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper.
  3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and sauté for 2 minutes. Add mushrooms and thyme, cooking until mushrooms are soft and browned (about 8 minutes).
  4. Spread the cooked polenta evenly in the prepared baking dish. Top with the sautéed mushrooms and the remaining Parmesan and mozzarella cheese.
  5. Bake for 20 minutes, until the top is golden and bubbly.
  6. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Italian Baked Polenta with Mushrooms is an exquisite and savory dish that pairs wonderfully with both light salads and hearty meats. The creamy texture of the polenta combined with the earthy mushrooms and melted cheese creates a perfect balance of flavors. It’s an ideal choice for a comforting meal that feels both rustic and refined.

Italian Baked Risotto with Chicken and Asparagus

Italian Baked Risotto with Chicken and Asparagus offers all the flavors of traditional risotto with the ease of a baked dish. This recipe features tender chicken, crisp asparagus, and creamy rice baked in a rich broth, creating a hearty and satisfying one-pan meal. It’s a convenient and delicious way to enjoy the flavors of risotto without constant stirring, making it a great weeknight dinner.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into cubes
  • 1 bunch asparagus, chopped
  • 1 cup Arborio rice
  • 3 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup white wine (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 small onion, chopped
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a large baking dish.
  2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and garlic and cook for 3 minutes until softened. Add chicken cubes and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in rice and thyme, cooking for another 2 minutes.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and wine, if using. Stir to combine, then transfer everything to the prepared baking dish.
  5. Cover with foil and bake for 25 minutes.
  6. Remove from the oven, stir in the chopped asparagus, and bake for an additional 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
  7. Stir in Parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper, and serve.

Italian Baked Risotto with Chicken and Asparagus is a simple yet elegant dish that combines all the flavors of a classic risotto without the labor-intensive stirring. The tender chicken, fresh asparagus, and creamy rice make it a comforting, satisfying meal. Perfect for a busy weeknight, this dish is both quick and full of flavor.

Italian Baked Gnocchi with Pesto and Mozzarella

Italian Baked Gnocchi with Pesto and Mozzarella is a cheesy, flavorful dish that combines pillowy potato gnocchi with the fresh flavors of basil pesto, creating an irresistible baked casserole. The mozzarella melts beautifully, adding richness to the pesto-coated gnocchi. This dish is perfect for anyone looking for a comforting vegetarian meal, and it comes together quickly for a weeknight dinner or a weekend treat.

Ingredients:

  • 1 pound potato gnocchi
  • 1 cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1½ cups shredded mozzarella cheese
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a baking dish.
  2. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, toss the cooked gnocchi with the pesto until evenly coated.
  4. Transfer the pesto-coated gnocchi to the prepared baking dish. Sprinkle with mozzarella cheese, Parmesan, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  5. Bake for 20 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
  6. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Italian Baked Gnocchi with Pesto and Mozzarella is an incredibly comforting and flavorful dish, with the rich pesto and melted cheese making every bite a delight. The pillowy gnocchi adds a soft texture, while the crispy golden top is just perfect. This is a simple, yet elegant dish that will impress both family and guests alike, and it pairs wonderfully with a fresh green salad.

Note: More recipes are coming soon!