### Baked Ground Turkey Gnocchi with Marinara Sauce Recipe
#### Introduction
Baking gnocchi instead of boiling it can help retain its texture and make cleanup easier. This recipe combines the comforting flavors of gnocchi with ground turkey and a classic marinara sauce, perfect for those cold winter evenings.
#### Ingredients
- 1 lb ground turkey
- 24 small gnocchi (available in most supermarkets)
- 1/2 cup marinara sauce
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
#### Tools
- Baking sheet
- Mixing bowl
- Whisk or fork
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Oven-safe baking dish (optional)
#### Instructions
1. **Preheat the Oven:**
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures that the gnocchi will bake evenly without drying out.
2. **Prepare the Ground Turkey Mixture:**
- In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix gently with a fork or whisk until just combined.
3. **Form the Gnocchi Balls:**
- Take small portions of the turkey mixture (about 1 tablespoon each) and roll them into balls. Place these turkey gnocchi on the baking sheet.
4. **Add Gnocchi to Baking Sheet:**
- Place a few pieces of gnocchi onto the prepared baking sheet. Make sure they are not too close together to allow for even cooking.
5. **Mix Marinara and Parmesan:**
- In another small bowl, mix marinara sauce with grated Parmesan cheese until well combined. This will be used as a topping later.
6. **Bake the Gnocchi:**
- Bake the gnocchi in the preheated oven for about 20-25 minutes or until they are golden brown and cooked through. You can check their doneness by ensuring that they spring back when gently pressed.
7. **Top with Marinara Sauce:**
- Once done, remove from the oven and spoon some of the marinara sauce mixture over each piece of gnocchi. This will add extra flavor and moisture to your dish.
8. **Serve and Enjoy:**
- Garnish with fresh parsley before serving. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting blend of ground turkey, tender gnocchi, and tangy marinara sauce.
#### Tips
- For an additional layer of flavor, you can sauté some onions or garlic in olive oil before adding it to the ground turkey mixture.
- If you don't have a baking sheet with non-stick properties, line it with parchment paper for easier cleanup.
#### Conclusion
This baked gnocchi recipe is not only easy but also packed with delicious flavors. It's perfect for a cozy dinner or even as an appetizer at your next gathering. With just a few simple steps and ingredients, you can enjoy this comforting dish in no time!