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Looking for a warm and cozy meal? Try my Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi! This comforting dish combines soft gnocchi with a rich tomato sauce, fresh basil, and creamy goodness. You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Join me on this tasty journey, and letβs dive into the ingredients and simple steps that make this dish a favorite!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting Flavor: This creamy tomato basil gnocchi offers a rich and comforting flavor that warms the heart, making it perfect for cozy dinners.
- Quick and Easy: With a total time of just 25 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious homemade meal without the fuss.
- Versatile Ingredients: The use of simple, fresh ingredients like basil and Parmesan cheese allows you to customize the dish to your taste and even add your favorite vegetables.
- Impressive Presentation: Serve it in shallow bowls with a drizzle of olive oil and freshly cracked pepper for an elegant touch that impresses guests.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
β 1 pound potato gnocchi
β 2 tablespoons olive oil
β 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Components
β 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
β 1 cup heavy cream
β 1 teaspoon dried oregano
β 1 teaspoon sugar
β Salt and black pepper to taste
Additional Ingredients
β 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
β 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
β Red pepper flakes (optional)
To make creamy tomato basil gnocchi, you need simple yet flavorful ingredients. The main ingredient is potato gnocchi, which gives a soft and delightful bite. The olive oil adds richness, while garlic brings a warm, savory touch.
For the sauce, crushed tomatoes form the base. They are sweet and tangy, making the dish vibrant. Heavy cream gives the sauce its creamy texture, while oregano adds a hint of earthiness. A bit of sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes, and salt and black pepper round out the flavors.
Fresh basil leaves add brightness and a burst of flavor. The grated Parmesan cheese melts beautifully, enriching the sauce. For those who like a kick, red pepper flakes can spice things up.
Gather these ingredients, and youβre ready to create a dish that comforts and delights!

Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking Gnocchi
First, fill a large pot with water. Add a generous amount of salt. Bring the water to a boil. This step is key for flavor.
Once the water is boiling, gently add the gnocchi. Cook them according to the package instructions. Usually, this takes about 2-3 minutes. You know the gnocchi are done when they float to the top. Drain them and set aside.
Making the Sauce
Next, grab a large skillet. Heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic. SautΓ© it until it smells amazing, about 30 seconds.
Now pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir in the heavy cream, oregano, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes. This thickens the sauce nicely.
Combining Ingredients
After the sauce thickens, add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet. Toss gently to coat them in the sauce. You want each piece to be covered well.
Then, stir in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes. This helps the cheese melt and blend with the sauce.
Taste your dish and adjust the seasoning. If you like some heat, add red pepper flakes. Serve your creamy gnocchi hot with extra Parmesan on top.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting Your Gnocchi
To make great gnocchi, avoid overcooking it. Gnocchi cooks quickly, usually in 2-3 minutes. Watch for them to float. If they float, they are ready. Drain them gently to keep them intact.
Next, ensure your sauce has the right consistency. Start by simmering the sauce until it thickens. This takes about 5-7 minutes. The sauce should coat the gnocchi, not drown them. If itβs too thick, add a splash of water or cream.
Serving Suggestions
For presentation, serve the gnocchi in shallow bowls. Drizzle some olive oil on top. Add freshly cracked black pepper for extra flavor. This small touch makes the dish look fancy.
Pair this dish with crusty bread. Itβs perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. A simple green salad also works well. The freshness of the salad balances the rich gnocchi.
Nutritional Information
Each serving has around 500 calories. This includes carbs from gnocchi and fats from cream. You get protein from cheese too. Itβs a hearty meal, so enjoy it in moderation.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh basil and quality tomatoes will elevate the flavors of your dish significantly. Opt for ripe tomatoes if possible.
- Donβt Overcook Gnocchi: Gnocchi only need a couple of minutes to cook. As soon as they float, they are ready to be drained to avoid a mushy texture.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, you can substitute half of the heavy cream with vegetable or chicken broth for a delicious alternative.
- Spice It Up: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of cayenne pepper to the sauce for an extra kick that complements the creamy texture.

Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
Sometimes, you may not have heavy cream. You can use half-and-half or whole milk instead. This change makes the sauce lighter but still creamy. You can even try coconut milk for a fun twist.
For cheese, Parmesan is classic, but you can swap it for Pecorino Romano. This cheese adds a sharper taste. If you prefer a creamier texture, use mascarpone cheese.
Flavor Enhancements
Want to boost the dish? Adding protein is a great idea. Chicken or shrimp works well. Just cook them in the skillet before adding the sauce.
If you want vegetarian options, consider spinach or mushrooms. Both add flavor and texture. SautΓ© them until soft, then mix them with the gnocchi.
Seasonal Variations
In summer, fresh tomatoes are juicy and sweet. Use them instead of canned tomatoes for a bright flavor. Just chop them up and add them to the sauce.
For fall, try pumpkin gnocchi. It adds a warm, cozy taste that fits the season. You can also mix in some sage for extra flavor.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To keep your creamy tomato basil gnocchi fresh, store it in an airtight container. The fridge is best for this dish. Make sure it cools down first. It will stay good for about three days. If you can, try to separate the gnocchi from the sauce. This helps keep the gnocchi firm.
Reheating Tips
Reheat gnocchi gently to avoid mushiness. Use a skillet over low heat. Add a splash of water or cream. This keeps it from drying out. Stir often until warmed through. You can also use the microwave, but cover it. Heat in short bursts to keep the texture.
Freezing Guidelines
To freeze creamy gnocchi, first cool it completely. Place it in a freezer-safe container. If you have extra sauce, freeze it separately. Use within two months for best taste. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently, adding a bit of cream to restore creaminess.
FAQs
How long does the gnocchi take to cook?
Cooking gnocchi takes about 2-3 minutes. When the gnocchi floats to the top, itβs ready. You can tell they are done when they rise to the surface of the boiling water. This means they have cooked through.
Can I make this dish vegan-friendly?
Yes, you can make creamy tomato basil gnocchi vegan. Start by choosing vegan gnocchi, which is usually made without eggs. For the creamy sauce, use coconut milk or cashew cream. Nutritional yeast can replace Parmesan cheese, giving it a cheesy flavor.
What are the best side dishes to serve with creamy tomato basil gnocchi?
Pair this dish with a crisp salad or some crusty bread. A simple green salad with vinaigrette adds freshness. Garlic bread is great for soaking up the sauce. You can also serve it with roasted vegetables for extra flavor.
In this blog post, I covered how to make a creamy tomato basil gnocchi. We explored the main ingredients, sauces, and steps to cook this dish perfectly. I also shared tips for making it your own with variations and storage methods.
This dish is simple yet delicious, perfect for any meal. Try it out and enjoy the flavor and warmth it brings to your table. Youβll impress your family and friends with this easy recip
Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi
A delicious and creamy gnocchi dish with fresh basil and tomatoes.
Prep Time 10 minutes mins
Cook Time 15 minutes mins
Total Time 25 minutes mins
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- to taste Salt and black pepper
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- 1 2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for serving)
- optional Red pepper flakes
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sautΓ© until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, and stir in the heavy cream, oregano, sugar, salt, and black pepper. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss to coat them in the sauce.
Stir in the chopped basil and grated Parmesan cheese, cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese has melted and everything is well combined.
Taste and adjust seasoning, adding red pepper flakes if desired for extra heat.
Serve the creamy gnocchi hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a few basil leaves.
Serve the gnocchi in shallow bowls with a drizzle of olive oil on top and sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper for an elegant touch. Add a side of crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.
Keyword basil, creamy, gnocchi, tomato
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