Mediterranean Gnocchi Bake
Mediterranean Gnocchi Bake: Your New Favourite Protein-Packed Comfort Food Recipe
This Mediterranean Gnocchi is made with chicken mince and combines the rich tomato based flavours of the Mediterranean with the nutritional benefits of lean protein. Chicken mince is a great lower calorie lean protein source, helping to build and repair muscles while keeping the dish light and satisfying. Paired with ready made gnocchi for ease, fresh vegetables, and a tomato-based sauce infused with garlic, this dish offers a balanced meal that’s both hearty and delicious. Ideal for weeknight dinners, this recipe is a great way to enjoy a healthy and protein-rich meal.
Full recipe and ingredients are on the recipe card below, with additional cooking tips and ingredient swaps provided after the recipe.
The Recipe
Mediterranean Gnocchi Bake
Ingredients
- 500 g low fat chicken mince
- 1 red chilli
- 3 cloves garlic crushed
- 1 medium red onion
- 1 medium courgette zucchini
- 2 tbsp tomato purée
- 1 tin of cherry tomatoes
- fresh basil
- 40 g grated parmesan
- salt and ground pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 125 g drained light mozzarella
- 400 g gnocchi
- 1 tsp mixed herbs
- 1 tsp chilli flakes
Instructions
- Dice your onion, chilli, garlic, red pepper and courgette. Heat a pan on medium heat and fry them off in 1 tbsp oil till soft.
- Add in the chicken mince, use a spoon to break it up and stir till it’s browned / cooked.
- Roughly blitz the tinned cherry tomatoes in a blender or use a hand blender before adding to the pan with two tablespoons of tomato puree, mixed herbs, salt, pepper and chilli flakes. Stir till combined.
- Let the sauce simmer on low heat while you boil some water for your gnocchi – cook per instructions. They should cook in a couple of minutes. Drain before adding to the chicken and vegetable sauce
- Preheat your oven to 180c. Pour the chicken and vegetable mix into an oven dish, slice the mozzarella and layer on top. Sprinkle on the grated parmesan. Cook in the oven for 10 minutes then switch to the grill (leave oven door slightly open if needed for the grill) for a couple of minutes till the cheese is bubbling and slightly golden.
Notes
Nutrition Per Serving
Ingredient Swaps
Chicken Mince: Substitute with turkey mince for a similar lean protein, or plant-based mince for a vegetarian option.
Gnocchi: Swap with pasta or whole wheat pasta for a carbohydrate alternative.
Mozzarella: Replace with feta cheese for a tangier flavour or omit for a dairy-free option.
Parmesan: Use nutritional yeast as a vegan alternative that still adds a cheesy flavour.
Serving Suggestions
Green Salad: Serve with a fresh green crunchy salad dressed with lemon, vinegar and olive oil to add a crisp, refreshing contrast. Baby gem lettuce works well for this type of salad.
Roasted Vegetables: Roast a dish of peppers, green beans, red onions in a little olive oil for a delicious side dish.
Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds additional nutrients and texture to the meal.
Please remember to double check all ingredients before cooking or consuming including the ingredients list labelled on packages if you have certain allergies or intolerances.
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