One-Pan Gnocchi with Zucchini and Cherry Tomatoes ready in 25 Minutes

When dinner time rolls around and the clock is ticking, finding a meal that is quick, satisfying, and flavorful can feel like a challenge. This one-pan gnocchi recipe with zucchini and cherry tomatoes fits the bill perfectly. It combines golden roasted gnocchi, tender zucchini slices, and blistered cherry tomatoes, all finished with bubbling cheese and fresh basil. The best part? It’s ready in just 25 minutes, making it an ideal weeknight dinner that requires minimal effort and cleanup.

One-pan gnocchi with zucchini and cherry tomatoes fresh from the oven

Why This Recipe Works for Busy Nights

This dish is designed for simplicity without sacrificing taste. Using a single sheet pan means you can toss everything together, roast it, and finish under the broiler with cheese in one go. No need for multiple pots or pans, which saves time on washing up. The combination of gnocchi, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes creates a balance of textures and flavors: crispy edges on the gnocchi, soft and juicy tomatoes, and tender zucchini with a slight bite.

The seasoning is straightforward but effective. Olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and a touch of Italian seasoning bring out the natural flavors of the ingredients. Adding feta or mozzarella pearls before broiling introduces a creamy, melty finish that elevates the dish. Fresh basil at the end adds a bright, herbal note that ties everything together.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 (16 oz) package shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi

• 1 medium zucchini, halved lengthwise and sliced into half moons

• 1 pint cherry tomatoes

• 3 tablespoons olive oil

• Salt, pepper, and garlic powder to taste

• ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (optional but recommended)

• Optional toppings:

- Feta cheese for a salty, tangy contrast

- Mozzarella pearls for a melty, cozy finish

- Fresh basil leaves added right before serving

These ingredients are easy to find at most grocery stores and can be swapped or adjusted based on what you have on hand. For example, if you prefer a different cheese, feel free to experiment with goat cheese or parmesan.

Step-by-Step Directions

1. Preheat your oven to 425°F. For extra crispy gnocchi, preheat the empty sheet pan in the oven for 5 minutes before adding the ingredients. This helps the gnocchi develop a golden crust.

   
   

2. Prepare the vegetables and gnocchi. On the hot sheet pan, toss the gnocchi, zucchini slices, and cherry tomatoes with olive oil, salt, pepper, garlic powder, and Italian seasoning. Spread everything out in a single layer to ensure even roasting.

   
   

1. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes. Halfway through, stir the ingredients to promote even browning. The gnocchi should turn golden and crispy, while the cherry tomatoes blister and soften.

   
   

2. Add cheese and broil. Remove the pan from the oven and sprinkle your choice of feta or mozzarella pearls over the top. Place the pan under the broiler for 2 to 3 minutes, watching closely until the cheese bubbles and starts to brown.

   
   

1. Finish with fresh basil and olive oil. Scatter fresh basil leaves over the dish and drizzle a little more olive oil for extra flavor. Serve immediately while warm.

   
   

Tips for Perfect Gnocchi Every Time

• Use shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi. Fresh gnocchi can be delicate and may not crisp up as well. Shelf-stable or refrigerated varieties hold their shape better during roasting.

  
  

• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Give the gnocchi and vegetables enough space to roast properly. Crowding leads to steaming instead of roasting, which affects texture.

  
  

• Stir halfway through roasting. This helps all sides get golden and prevents burning.

  
  

• Watch the broiler carefully. Cheese can go from perfectly melted to burnt in seconds. Keep an eye on it to get that ideal bubbly finish.

  
  

Variations to Try

• Add protein. Toss in cooked sausage slices, grilled chicken, or chickpeas before roasting for a heartier meal.

  
  

• Swap vegetables. Try bell peppers, asparagus, or mushrooms in place of zucchini for different flavors and textures.

  
  

• Use different herbs. If you don’t have basil, fresh parsley or oregano also work well.

  
  

• Spice it up. Add red pepper flakes or a dash of smoked paprika for a little heat.

  
  

Why This Recipe Deserves a Spot in Your Weeknight Rotation

This one-pan gnocchi dish is a perfect example of how simple ingredients and minimal effort can produce a delicious, comforting meal. It’s fast enough for busy evenings but impressive enough to serve guests. The combination of textures and flavors keeps every bite interesting, and the fresh basil adds a final touch of brightness.

Plus, the recipe is flexible. You can customize it based on what’s in your fridge or pantry, making it a versatile option that reduces food waste. The single sheet pan approach means less time cleaning and more time enjoying your meal.

Give this recipe a try the next time you want a cozy, flavorful dinner without the hassle. It’s proof that weeknight cooking can be both easy and satisfying.