Gnocchi Pizza is a fun twist on your classic pizza! It features soft, pillowy gnocchi topped with your favorite sauce, cheese, and toppings. Perfect for pizza lovers who want something different!
Honestly, who can resist gnocchi? It’s like eating little clouds on a pizza! I love it loaded with veggies and a sprinkle of cheese. It’s a hit every time—easy and oh-so-tasty!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gnocchi: You can use store-bought gnocchi for convenience or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous! If you need a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free gnocchi made with rice or other flours.
Olive Oil: Olive oil adds nice flavor, but you can swap it with avocado oil or melted butter. Both work well for cooking the gnocchi and should give good results!
Pizza Sauce: I recommend using homemade pizza sauce if you have time. Jarred marinara sauce is great too. For a kick, try using spicy pizza sauce. If you’re avoiding tomatoes, consider using pesto or cream sauce instead.
Cheese: Mozzarella is the classic choice, but feel free to mix it up! Try provolone for a stronger flavor, or even a blend of different cheeses like fontina and cheddar. If you’re dairy-free, go for a vegan cheese.
Mini Pepperoni: If you don’t like pepperoni, you can use veggies like mushrooms, bell peppers, or olives as toppings. Cooked sausage or cooked chicken also make great substitutions!
How Do I Achieve Perfectly Crispy Gnocchi?
Getting the gnocchi crispy is a vital step in this recipe. Here’s how to do it just right:
- Start with a hot skillet and preheat it before adding oil.
- Add the gnocchi in a single layer to avoid steaming.
- Let them sit for 3-4 minutes before flipping; this keeps them from sticking and helps browning.
- Flip gently to maintain their shape and cook the other side until golden brown as well.
This technique enhances the texture and flavor of your gnocchi pizza. Enjoy the crispy outside and soft inside! Making sure to give the gnocchi space while cooking is key for that perfect result.
Gnocchi Pizza
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup pizza sauce or marinara sauce
- 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup mini pepperoni slices
- Fresh basil leaves, thinly sliced (about 1/4 cup)
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning or oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful gnocchi pizza takes about 30 minutes in total. You’ll spend roughly 10 minutes preparing the ingredients and cooking the gnocchi, followed by 15 minutes baking it in the oven. It’s quick and easy, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend treat!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Start by preheating your oven to 425°F (220°C). This ensures your pizza cooks evenly and the cheese melts perfectly!
2. Cook the Gnocchi:
In a large skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once it’s hot, carefully add the gnocchi in a single layer. Cook them for about 3-4 minutes on one side until they’re golden brown and slightly crispy. Then flip them over and cook for another 3-4 minutes until they’re golden on both sides. Once done, remove from heat.
3. Assemble the Pizza:
Spread your pizza sauce evenly over the bottom of an oven-safe skillet or pizza pan. After that, layer the browned gnocchi on top of the sauce. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and arrange the mini pepperoni slices evenly over the cheese.
4. Season & Bake:
Sprinkle the dried Italian seasoning, along with salt and pepper, over your toppings. Now it’s time to bake! Carefully transfer the skillet or pizza pan to your preheated oven. Bake for about 10-15 minutes or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly browned.
5. Finishing Touches:
Once the pizza is out of the oven, add the fresh basil on top for a burst of flavor. If you like, you can also sprinkle some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra cheesy touch!
6. Serve & Enjoy:
Let the gnocchi pizza cool for a few minutes. Slice it up and enjoy your delicious, creative pizza! It’s sure to be a hit with family and friends.
This dish combines pillowy, crispy gnocchi with classic pizza elements like gooey melted mozzarella, zesty pepperoni, and fragrant basil. It’s a delightful and tasty alternative to traditional pizza crust!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen gnocchi, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Just follow the same cooking steps in the skillet; they may take an extra minute or two to achieve that golden, crispy texture!
What Can I Substitute for the Pizza Sauce?
If you don’t have pizza sauce on hand, marinara sauce works great. For a unique twist, consider using basil pesto or even a creamy Alfredo sauce if you’re in the mood for something different!
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover gnocchi pizza in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, pop it back in the oven for a few minutes or use the microwave at a low setting to warm it up without getting soggy.
Can I Add Other Toppings?
Definitely! Get creative with your toppings. Bell peppers, mushrooms, olives, or cooked sausage would all make great additions. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly if you’re adding raw ingredients that need extra cooking.