Cheesy, Saucy Gnocchi Marinara Casserole Recipe With Ground Chicken (8 Ingredients, 35 Minutes) by Elisa Schmitz

If you're a pasta lover but are looking for something a bit different, then it may be time to try a gnocchi recipe. Whether you're new to gnocchi or are a tried and true gnocchi fan, I highly recommend this cheesy, saucy gnocchi marinara skillet casserole recipe with ground chicken. It's so easy and delicious!

Gnocchi, an Italian pasta-like dumpling that's typically made of a simple combination of potatoes and/or flour, eggs and salt, has a chewy consistency that's very satisfying. And, like pasta, it can be enjoyed on its own or with a variety of proteins, vegetables, sauces or toppings. When you combine gnocchi with ground chicken, then add in some vegetables, fresh basil, marinara sauce and mozzarella cheese, you've got an irresistible dinner with very little effort.

Ground chicken is perfect for weeknight dinner recipes because all you do is brown it to unleash its versatility. This nourishing skillet casserole is packed with protein, thanks to the ground chicken and cheese. Check out the health benefits of protein. This gnocchi recipe also includes fresh vegetables and herbs. Check out the health benefits of onions, the health benefits of bell peppers and the health benefits of basil.

Here's the list of wholesome ingredients for this one-pan dinner recipe: extra virgin olive oil, onion, green bell pepper, ground chicken, shredded mozzarella cheese, gnocchi, marinara sauce and fresh basil. All you do is combine everything in the skillet on the stovetop then bake it until the high-protein casserole is a bubbling golden brown.

I served this flavorful skillet meal for dinner on its own, but it also works as a protein-packed side dish. As an extra special touch, you can top it with additional fresh basil. Simple and delicious!

Cuisine: American
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Servings: 8

Ingredients

• 1 1/2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 1 cup green bell pepper (or your preferred color of bell pepper), diced
• 1 pound ground chicken
• 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese (divided)
• 17 ounces (1 package) gnocchi (I used Isola fresh potato gnocchi)
• 24 ounces (1 jar) marinara sauce (I used Rao's)
• 1/3 cup fresh basil, chopped
• additional fresh basil for garnish (optional)

Here's how to make it:

1. In a pot of boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package directions. Drain and set aside. (If you need to be sure this dish is gluten-free, use gluten-free gnocchi.)
   
2. While the gnocchi is cooking, start the vegetables. In a cast iron skillet over medium heat, add the olive oil, onions and peppers. Stir to combine. (I used green bell pepper, but you can use any color bell pepper you prefer.)
   
3. Add the ground chicken. Break it up and sauté with the vegetables until it's browned and cooked through. Remove from heat.
   
4. Add half of the mozzarella cheese and the gnocchi. Season with salt and black pepper, to taste, if desired. Stir to combine.
   
5. Add the marinara sauce. Stir to combine, then ensure that the top is smooth.
   
6. Evenly distribute the basil over the top of the casserole.
   
7. Top with the remaining mozzarella.
   
8. Bake at 375 degrees F for 18 to 20 minutes, or until cooked through and a bubbly golden brown. Allow to cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with additional fresh basil, if desired.
   
9. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator and reheat in the microwave.
   

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