Introduction
Indulge in a creamy, flavorful vodka sauce combined with soft, pillowy gnocchi for a comforting dish that’s perfect for any day of the week. This recipe blends rich flavors and textures, creating a satisfying meal that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
Vodka Sauce:
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 2 cloves garlic, grated, minced, or very thinly sliced
– 6 ounces tomato paste
– 1/4 cup vodka
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 1 cup chicken broth or water
– 1 teaspoon kosher salt (more to taste)
Gnocchi:
– 2 DeLallo Gnocchi Kits
– 1/2 cup mozzarella cheese balls
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley or basil for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time
20 minutes
Total Time
35 minutes
Yield
Serves 4
Instructions
1. Prepare the Vodka Sauce:
– Heat butter in a large oven-safe pan over medium-low heat.
– Add garlic and sauté for 5 minutes until soft, ensuring it doesn’t brown.
– Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1-2 minutes.
– Add vodka and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
– Pour in heavy cream, chicken broth (or water), and salt.
– Bring the mixture to a low simmer until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon and has a rich flavor.
– Remove from heat and set aside.
2. Prepare the Gnocchi:
– Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions.
– Once cooked, add the gnocchi to the prepared vodka sauce in the pan, stirring gently to combine.
3. Bake the Dish:
– Preheat the oven to the broil setting at 500°F (260°C).
– Arrange mozzarella cheese balls evenly over the top of the gnocchi and sauce mixture.
– Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
– Place the pan in the oven and bake for 5-8 minutes, or until the top is well browned and slightly crisped.
– Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, and serve.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Prepare the Vodka Sauce:
– Heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a large oven-safe pan over medium-low heat.
– Add 2 cloves of grated, minced, or very thinly sliced garlic and sauté for about 5 minutes until soft, ensuring it doesn’t brown.
– Stir in 6 ounces of tomato paste and cook for another 1-2 minutes.
– Add 1/4 cup of vodka and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
– Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 cup of chicken broth (or water), and 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.
– Bring the mixture to a low simmer until the sauce thickens enough to coat the back of a spoon and develops a rich flavor.
– Remove from heat and set aside.
Prepare the Gnocchi:
– Cook 2 DeLallo Gnocchi Kits according to the package instructions.
– Once cooked, add the gnocchi to the prepared vodka sauce in the pan, stirring gently to combine.
Bake the Dish:
– Preheat the oven to the broil setting at 500°F (260°C).
– Arrange 1/2 cup of mozzarella cheese balls evenly over the top of the gnocchi and sauce mixture.
– Sprinkle 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
– Place the pan in the oven and bake for 5-8 minutes, or until the top is well browned and slightly crisped.
– Remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves, and serve.
Notes
Serving Suggestions:
– Pair this dish with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Storage:
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Customization:
– Feel free to add vegetables such as spinach or mushrooms to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
Cook techniques
Sautéing
Sauté the garlic in butter over medium-low heat to soften its flavor without browning. This technique helps to release the aromatic oils, enhancing the overall taste of the sauce.
Deglazing
Add vodka to the pan after sautéing the garlic and tomato paste. This technique lifts any flavorful bits stuck to the pan, incorporating deeper flavors into the sauce.
Simmering
After adding heavy cream and broth, allow the mixture to simmer until it thickens. This technique develops the sauce’s richness and helps the flavors meld together.
Coating
Make sure the sauce is thick enough to coat the back of a spoon. This technique is essential for a perfect pasta sauce consistency.
Baking
Broil the dish after combining the gnocchi with the sauce and cheeses. This technique browns and crisps the cheese, adding texture and flavor to the dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of pasta instead of gnocchi?
Yes, you can substitute gnocchi with any pasta of your choice, but cooking times may vary.
Is there a vegetarian option for this vodka sauce?
Yes, you can use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit any meat-based ingredients.
Can I make the vodka sauce in advance?
Yes, the vodka sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Reheat before adding to the gnocchi.
What if I don’t have vodka on hand?
If you don’t have vodka, you can use white wine or omit it altogether, although the flavor may differ slightly.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat or in the microwave.
Conclusion
This dish brings together the creamy richness of vodka sauce and the delightful texture of gnocchi, making it a comforting and satisfying meal. The gooey mozzarella and flavorful Parmesan create a beautiful, golden crust that enhances the overall experience, while the fresh herbs add a pop of color and freshness. Enjoy this indulgent oven-baked gnocchi as a stand-alone meal or alongside your favorite salad for a complete dining experience.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Combine vodka sauce with pasta varieties like penne or fettuccine for a classic Italian twist.
More recipes suggestions and combination
To make a vegetarian version, swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth and add seasonal vegetables like spinach or mushrooms.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For a spicy kick, incorporate red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce into the vodka sauce.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Transform this dish into a baked pasta casserole by mixing in cooked sausage or ground meat along with the gnocchi.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Try topping with breadcrumbs mixed with herbs and garlic before baking for added texture and flavor.
More recipes suggestions and combination
For a gourmet touch, finish with a drizzle of truffle oil just before serving.
