This might just be the best sauce for your homemade gnocchi. Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a Southern Italian classic—comforting, flavourful, and so simple to make. It’s made with just a handful of ingredients: garlic, tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, all brought together in one pan and baked until perfectly melted and bubbling. This dish is proof that when it comes to Italian cooking, a few quality ingredients can go a long way.
It’s the kind of meal that feels special but is so easy to prepare. The sauce comes together in minutes, and the gnocchi—whether homemade or store-bought—turn it into something incredibly satisfying. Plus, it’s naturally vegetarian and family-friendly.
What Are Gnocchi alla Sorrentina?
Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is a traditional baked dish from Sorrento, a beautiful coastal town in the Campania region of Southern Italy. This comforting meal is a staple in Neapolitan cuisine, known for its simplicity and bold, sunny flavours. The dish is made with soft potato gnocchi tossed in a tomato and garlic sauce, topped with fresh basil and mozzarella, then baked until bubbly and golden.
The name “alla Sorrentina” literally means “in the style of Sorrento,” where this dish was born. It showcases the region’s love for tomatoes (San Marzano if you want to be extra traditional), fresh herbs, and dairy—especially the rich, creamy mozzarella from nearby Agerola or buffalo mozzarella from Campania.
One of the most interesting things about Gnocchi alla Sorrentina is how it’s served: often in individual terracotta dishes straight from the oven, known as pignatielli. These hold the heat beautifully and give the dish its iconic rustic appeal. Today, it’s a popular comfort food all over Italy, especially on Sundays or for family gatherings—proof that you don’t need fancy ingredients to make something unforgettable.
Tips
- Use a good pan: Make sure your pan is oven-safe so you can cook and bake everything in one.
- Don’t skip the basil: It really lifts the sauce and gives that authentic flavour.
- Tear, don’t slice: Tearing the mozzarella creates a rustic, traditional look and helps it melt evenly.
- Homemade vs store-bought gnocchi: Use what you have—either works beautifully, but homemade takes it to the next level!
Swaps
Mozzarella: Try burrata or a mix of mozzarella and provolone for extra richness.
Chopped tomatoes: Use passata if you prefer a smoother sauce.
Basil: A touch of dried oregano can work if you don’t have fresh herbs.
Gnocchi: You can use gluten-free gnocchi if needed, or make your own with my easy recipe Homemade Gnocchi
Storage
Fridge: Store any leftover Gnocchi alla Sorrentina in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout.
Freezer: Freeze in an oven-safe dish before baking, tightly covered, for up to 2 months. Bake straight from frozen at 180°C (covered) for 35–40 minutes or until piping hot, then uncover for 5–10 minutes to allow the cheese to brown slightly.
More Mediterranean Pasta Recipes
Gnocchi Alla Sorrentina
Ingredients
- 2 cans chopped tomatoes, (400gx2)
- ½ mozzarella
- salt, pepper, to taste
- handful basil
- 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped
- drizzle oil
Instructions
- Heat a pan over medium heat with a drizzle of olive oil. Add the chopped garlic and let it gently infuse the oil until fragrant, just a few seconds.
- Pour in good quality chopped tomatoes. Stir and let it simmer until slightly thickened.
- Season with salt to taste and tear in fresh basil leaves for extra flavour. Let it cook for another minute.
- Drain the gnocchi and toss them into the sauce.
- Tear the mozzarella with your hands and scatter it on top then grated Parmesan cheese.
- Transfer into a pre heated oven at 200C for 5 minutes, for the perfect melt.