Creamy Tomato Gnocchi

Name: Creamy Tomato Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound gnocchi; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 teaspoon dried basil; Fresh basil leaves for garnish; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Favorite Baking Favorites

I absolutely love this Creamy Tomato Gnocchi recipe! It's a delightful dish that brings together tender gnocchi and a luscious, creamy tomato sauce, creating a comforting meal that's perfect for any day of the week. The flavors meld beautifully, and I find that adding a hint of garlic really enhances the overall taste. It’s so simple to prepare yet feels gourmet, making it a go-to option for impressing guests or simply indulging myself on a cozy night in.

Created by

Isobel Fairfax

Last updated on 2026-02-08T05:17:36.457Z

When I first tried making this Creamy Tomato Gnocchi, I underestimated how quickly it would come together. With the gnocchi bubbling away and the sauce cooking simultaneously, I easily had a fresh, restaurant-quality meal on the table in no time. I use a mix of canned tomatoes and cream to create a rich base that's both comforting and satisfying.

One important tip I learned is to finish cooking the gnocchi in the sauce itself. This allows the gnocchi to soak up all the flavors while staying creamy and delicious. Now, every time I serve it, I make sure to pair it with a sprinkle of fresh basil for that vibrant touch!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Velvety creamy sauce that elevates the simple gnocchi.
Hearty and satisfying meal perfect for any occasion.
Quick to make, yet feels like a gourmet feast.

Technique Tips for Perfect Gnocchi

When cooking gnocchi, timing is key to achieving the perfect texture. Be sure to watch closely as they cook; they should float to the surface within 2-3 minutes. This floating indicates they are done. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, which detracts from the dish's overall appeal. If you’re using frozen gnocchi, just add them to boiling water directly without thawing, and they will float once cooked.

For an enhanced flavor and texture, consider pan-searing the cooked gnocchi in a bit of olive oil after boiling. This gives them a delicious crispy edge while keeping the inside soft. Simply sauté them in a skillet over medium heat for about 3-5 minutes until golden and slightly crispy before adding them to the sauce.

Understanding the Sauce Components

The combination of diced tomatoes and heavy cream forms the backbone of this sauce, creating a comforting balance of acidity and richness. Using high-quality canned tomatoes can significantly elevate your sauce, as they contribute natural sweetness and depth of flavor. Look for brands that contain little more than tomatoes, salt, and maybe some basil for the best taste.

Don’t underestimate the importance of seasoning. After adding cream, taste your sauce and adjust the salt and pepper to fit your preference. If the sauce feels too acidic, adding a pinch of sugar can help balance it out. Dried basil is a great addition, but fresh basil can add an incredible burst of flavor—consider using both for complexity.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create a delightful Creamy Tomato Gnocchi:

Ingredients

1 pound gnocchi
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
1 teaspoon dried basil
Fresh basil leaves for garnish
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

With these ingredients on hand, you're ready to whip up this tasty dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare your Creamy Tomato Gnocchi:

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the diced tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Make it Creamy

Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, followed by salt, pepper, and dried basil. Let the sauce simmer until it thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine

Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce, stirring gently to coat them well. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to absorb the sauce.

Serve

Serve the creamy gnocchi hot, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your delicious Creamy Tomato Gnocchi!

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a bit of heat. Also, for a vegetarian option, you can simply omit the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. However, keep in mind that gnocchi can become slightly soggy when stored, so it's best enjoyed fresh. To reheat, use a skillet over medium heat and add a touch of olive oil or a splash of water to create steam, helping to revive the dish without drying it out.

For longer storage, consider freezing the sauce in ice cube trays for individual servings. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a freezer bag. This way, you can easily pull out portion sizes and combine them with fresh, cooked gnocchi whenever you're craving a quick meal.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Creamy Tomato Gnocchi, consider serving it alongside a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The peppery greens provide a refreshing contrast to the rich sauce and add depth to your meal. Pairing with a crusty bread can also enhance the experience, allowing for a delightful way to soak up the leftover sauce.

While this dish shines on its own, you can enhance it by adding cooked Italian sausage or roasted vegetables. For a lighter twist, you might incorporate spinach or kale into the sauce just before serving, as they wilt beautifully and add nutrients without overpowering the flavor.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi will work wonderfully in this recipe and can make the dish even more special.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream alternative if you're looking to lighten the dish.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.

→ Can I freeze this dish?

While gnocchi can be frozen, the creamy sauce may not hold up well after freezing. It's best enjoyed fresh.