There’s a comforting charm in the simplicity of baked gnocchi, and when you add a splash of vodka sauce and creamy burrata to the mix, you create a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I remember the first time I ventured into this combination; the rich aroma filled my kitchen and the anticipation was almost too much to bear.
Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, this Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi with Burrata captures the essence of homemade cooking without the fuss. With minimal prep time and just one pan to clean, it brings delightful flavors to the table while allowing you to enjoy more quality moments with your loved ones.
As the gnocchi bakes, the burrata melts into cheesy goodness, creating pools of creamy indulgence that you’ll want to savor with every bite. So, grab your favorite skillet, and let’s dive into making this crowd-pleaser that’s destined to become a staple in your kitchen!
Why is Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi with Burrata a Must-Try?
Simplicity: This recipe comes together in just one pan, making cleanup a breeze.
Creamy Indulgence: The melty burrata creates a rich, luscious texture that takes your taste buds to cloud nine.
Flavor Explosion: The savory notes of vodka sauce paired with aromatic garlic and shallots produce a comforting warmth perfect for any occasion.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 15-20 minutes, it’s an ideal choice for a satisfying weeknight dinner.
Crowd-Pleasing: Impress your friends and family with this show-stopping meal that feels fancy but is remarkably easy to prepare.
If you’re looking for more delicious baked recipes, don’t miss out on exploring other tasty ideas.
Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi Ingredients
For the Sauce
• Unsalted butter – adds richness to the sauce, enhancing the flavors.
• Shallot – provides a mild onion flavor that’s perfect in pasta dishes.
• Garlic – infuses the sauce with aromatic goodness for a savory profile.
• Kosher salt and pepper – essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
• Tomato paste – creates a thick, flavorful base for the vodka sauce.
• Vodka – deglazes the pan and adds depth to the tomato sauce.
• Heavy cream – contributes a luxurious creaminess that balances the acidity.
• Finely grated parmesan cheese – melts beautifully into the sauce for added flavor.
For the Gnocchi
• Uncooked gnocchi – the star of the dish, providing a delightful chewy texture.
• Burrata cheese – effortlessly melts into the sauce, creating creamy pockets of indulgence.
For the Topping
• Fresh basil – brightens the dish with fresh, herbal notes for a delightful finish.
• Parmesan cheese (for topping) – adds a bit of cheesy goodness to elevate the final dish.
Now you have everything you need to bring this Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi with Burrata to life! Enjoy the magic of homemade comfort food with every bite!
How to Make Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi with Burrata
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Preheat the oven to 400°F. This sets the stage for a perfect, bubbly bake where the flavors meld beautifully.
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Create a starchy pasta water by mixing 1 cup of water with ½ teaspoon of cornstarch and ¼ teaspoon salt in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil and then turn off the heat for a wonderful base.
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Melt the unsalted butter in a 10 to 12-inch oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Once melted, sprinkle in the diced shallots and minced garlic, cooking until softened and aromatic, about 3-4 minutes.
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Add the tomato paste, stirring it into the mixture. Let it cook for 5 minutes to deepen the flavors, transforming your sauce from simple to scrumptious.
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Pour in the vodka, scraping up any brown bits stuck to the bottom of the skillet. Then, stir in ½ cup of your reserved (or makeshift) pasta water to create a rich sauce.
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Blend in the heavy cream and finely grated parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy, tasting to see if it needs more salt and pepper.
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Incorporate the uncooked gnocchi into the sauce, ensuring they are well coated. Place the pulled-apart burrata cheese generously over the gnocchi, then finish with a light sprinkle of parmesan.
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Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until the cheese is melty and the top is bubbly and golden. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and an extra sprinkle of parmesan.
Optional: Drizzle with a bit of olive oil for extra richness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
What to Serve with Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi with Burrata?
Planning the perfect meal around this comforting dish? Let the flavors dance with exciting pairings that elevate your dining experience.
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Garlic Bread: Perfect for mopping up that dreamy vodka sauce, the crispy, buttery delight complements every bite.
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Mixed Green Salad: A refreshing bite of crisp greens with a tangy vinaigrette adds a healthy balance to the creamy gnocchi.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized seasonal veggies like zucchini and bell peppers evoke a hearty, rustic flair alongside the dish.
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Chardonnay: A glass of chilled chardonnay enhances the flavors beautifully, offering a luxurious finish to your meal.
Indulging in all these pairings allows you to experience a harmony of textures and tastes. They’re wonderful companions that help to create a memorable dining experience suitable for any occasion!
Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi Variations
Feel free to put your personal twist on this recipe and let your creativity shine in the kitchen!
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Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi made from rice or potato flour to enjoy the same delightful dish without gluten.
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Vegan: Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and replace burrata with cashew cream for a delicious plant-based option.
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Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or fresh diced jalapeños to the sauce for a zesty heat that will awaken your taste buds.
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Additional Veggies: Toss in some sautéed spinach or roasted cherry tomatoes for an extra burst of color, flavor, and nutrition.
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Cheese Lovers: Mix in a blend of mozzarella and fontina cheese with the burrata for an even cheesier experience that brings a gooey goodness to every bite.
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Herb Infusion: Enhance the aroma by adding fresh thyme or oregano to the sauce for a fragrant undertone that complements the dish beautifully.
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Mushroom Medley: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, like cremini or shiitake, for an earthy flavor and a delightful texture contrast.
Let these variations inspire you to make this dish your own!
How to Store and Freeze Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi with Burrata
Fridge: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream to revive the creamy texture.
Freezer: Freeze the baked gnocchi in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until hot and bubbly.
Covering: When storing in the fridge or freezer, cover the dish tightly with plastic wrap or aluminum foil to prevent freezer burn and maintain freshness.
Reheating: For the best results, reheat baked vodka sauce gnocchi with burrata in the oven instead of the microwave for that melty cheese goodness!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi with Burrata ahead of time is a wonderful way to save time during a busy week! You can make the vodka sauce (steps 2-6) up to 3 days in advance and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce in the skillet, add the uncooked gnocchi, and follow with the burrata and parmesan as before. To keep the quality intact, reheat gently and avoid boiling, which could break down the creamy texture. This way, you’ll have a comforting meal ready to pop in the oven whenever you need it, delivering all the homemade warmth and indulgence with minimal effort!
Expert Tips for Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi
Use Enough Salt: Make sure to season every layer of your dish, especially the pasta water. This helps enhance the overall flavor of your baked vodka sauce gnocchi.
Don’t Overcook the Sauce: When simmering the tomato paste and vodka, keep it to 5 minutes. Overcooking can lead to a bitter taste; we want a brightly flavored sauce!
Check Gnocchi Packaging: Different brands may have varying cooking times or methods. Always refer to the instructions on the gnocchi package to ensure perfect texture.
Stir Before Baking: Ensure that the gnocchi is well-coated in the sauce before adding the burrata. This guarantees that every bite is delicious and not dry.
Watch Baking Time: Keep an eye on the gnocchi while it bakes. Depending on your oven, cooking times may vary, and overbaking can leave the dish dry.
Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe FAQs
What kind of gnocchi should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using uncooked gnocchi for the best texture. You can find fresh or shelf-stable varieties at your local grocery store. Just ensure to check the packaging for any specific cooking instructions, as different brands may vary.
How should I store leftover Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi with Burrata?
After enjoying your meal, transfer any leftovers into an airtight container and store them in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy more, gently reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or cream to help regain that creamy goodness.
Can I freeze Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi with Burrata?
Absolutely! You can freeze this dish in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw it overnight in the fridge and bake at 350°F until it is hot and bubbly. This method keeps all the flavors intact, ensuring you have a delicious meal ready to enjoy.
What should I do if the sauce is too thick?
If you find your sauce too thick, don’t worry! You can easily adjust it. Start by adding small amounts of reserved pasta water or extra cream to the sauce, stirring continuously until you reach your desired consistency. Remember, the sauce should be creamy but still pourable!
Are there any dietary considerations for this recipe?
Yes, if you have dietary restrictions such as allergies to dairy, you can substitute the burrata and heavy cream with non-dairy alternatives like cashew cream and vegan cheese. Additionally, ensure that the gnocchi you are using is suitable for your dietary needs, as some varieties may contain gluten or eggs. Always check the labels!
How do I know when the gnocchi is done baking?
Keep an eye on the dish while it bakes. It’s usually done when the cheese is melty and bubbly, typically around 15 to 20 minutes. For a golden topping, you can broil it for an additional minute or two—just watch it closely to avoid burning.
These Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi with Burrata FAQs will help you navigate through your cooking journey with confidence!
Baked Vodka Sauce Gnocchi with Burrata: Comfort Food Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Preheat the oven to 400°F.
- Create a starchy pasta water by mixing 1 cup of water with ½ teaspoon of cornstarch and ¼ teaspoon salt in a saucepan. Bring it to a boil and then turn off the heat.
- Melt the unsalted butter in a 10 to 12-inch oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add shallots and garlic, cooking until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the tomato paste and let it cook for 5 minutes.
- Pour in the vodka and stir in ½ cup of reserved pasta water.
- Mix in heavy cream and parmesan cheese, stirring until creamy.
- Incorporate the uncooked gnocchi into the sauce and place burrata on top, sprinkling with parmesan.
- Bake for 15 to 20 minutes, until bubbly and golden. Garnish with fresh basil.