This 30 minute pizza gnocchi bake made with store-bought gnocchi, tomato sauce, pepperoni, and melty mozzarella is an easy weeknight dinner everyone loves.

When I need dinner on the table fast and I want everyone to actually eat it, this 30-minute pizza gnocchi bake is one of my go-to meals. It delivers all the comfort of pizza with the ease of a baked casserole, and it comes together quickly using store-bought gnocchi and simple pantry ingredients.

This is a true weeknight dinner. The prep takes about 10 minutes, and most of that happens while the gnocchi cook. The oven does the rest.

Why Pizza Gnocchi Bake Works So Well for Busy Nights

This dish hits several weeknight dinner sweet spots.

• It’s fast.
• Filling.
• Kid-friendly.
• And it uses minimal dishes.

Potato gnocchi cook in just a few minutes, which makes them perfect for quick baked dinners. While they boil, you can prep the sauce, pepperoni, and cheese, no extra time required.

This pizza gnocchi bake also scales easily. I can double it for a crowd or keep it simple for a family dinner.

Ingredients for a 30-Minute Pizza Gnocchi Bake

This recipe uses basic ingredients you can keep on hand.

Main Ingredients

• Potato gnocchi
• Pepperoni slices
• Tomato sauce
• Shredded mozzarella cheese

Optional Add-Ins

• Black pepper or red chili flakes
• Fresh or dried basil
• A sprinkle of Italian seasoning

Use Homemade Roasted Tomato Sauce for Better Flavor

This pizza gnocchi bake works with a good-quality store-bought tomato sauce, but when I have time, I use my homemade roasted tomato sauce instead.

Roasted tomato sauce adds depth and sweetness without extra sugar. It also feels less acidic, which works especially well in baked gnocchi dishes.

If you’re already making roasted tomato sauce for pasta or pizza, this is a great way to use it up.

How to Make Pizza Gnocchi Bake Step by Step

This is where the 30-minute timing really works.

Step 1: Prep the Oven and Dish

Preheat the oven to 400°F. Choose a baking dish large enough to hold everything with room to stir.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package directions. They’re ready as soon as they float. Drain and set aside.

Step 3: Assemble the First Layer

While the gnocchi cook, prep the rest of the ingredients.

Add the cooked gnocchi to the baking dish. Stir in:

• Half the pepperoni
• Tomato sauce
• Half the mozzarella

Cover with foil and bake for 15 minutes.

Step 4: Finish and Bake

Remove the dish from the oven and stir everything together. Top with the remaining pepperoni and mozzarella.

Cover again and bake for another 5 minutes, just until the cheese melts.

Step 5: Serve

Remove from the oven and finish with fresh basil if you like. Serve hot.

Tips for the Best Cheesy Gnocchi Bake

These small details make a difference.

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi. They finish cooking in the oven.
• Cover with foil to keep the gnocchi soft and prevent the cheese from drying out.
• Use low-moisture mozzarella for the best melt.
• Let the bake rest for a few minutes before serving so it sets slightly.

Easy Variations on Pizza Gnocchi Bake

This recipe adapts well.

Make It Vegetarian

Skip the pepperoni and add sautéed mushrooms, olives, or roasted peppers.

Add More Protein

Cooked sausage or cooked ground beef both work well.

Make It Spicy

Add chili flakes to the sauce or use spicy pepperoni.

Make It Extra Cheesy

Add a small amount of parmesan or provolone with the mozzarella.

What to Serve with Pizza Gnocchi Bake

This is a hearty dish, so I keep the sides simple.

• A green salad with a sharp vinaigrette
• Steamed broccoli or green beans
• Garlic bread if you want full comfort food mode

Why This Is a True 30-Minute Meal

This pizza gnocchi bake earns the 30-minute label.

The gnocchi cook in minutes, prep happens while they boil, and the oven time is short and hands-off.

It’s the kind of recipe that works when the day gets away from you but you still want a real, homemade dinner.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pizza Gnocchi Bake

Can I make pizza gnocchi bake ahead of time?

Yes. Assemble the dish, cover it tightly, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours. When ready to bake, add 5–10 extra minutes to the oven time since it will be cold.

Do I need to cook gnocchi before baking?

Yes. Boiling the gnocchi first ensures they cook evenly and stay tender. Uncooked gnocchi won’t soften properly in the oven alone.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes. Cook frozen gnocchi according to the package directions before adding them to the casserole. Do not bake them from frozen.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

How do I reheat pizza gnocchi bake?

Reheat in the oven at 350°F, covered with foil, until warmed through. You can also microwave individual portions, but the oven keeps the texture better.

Can I freeze pizza gnocchi bake?

You can, but the texture of gnocchi may soften after freezing. If freezing, cool completely, wrap tightly, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight before reheating.

What kind of cheese melts best in gnocchi bake?

Low-moisture mozzarella melts evenly and gives the best texture. You can also mix in provolone or a small amount of parmesan.

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