Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi

Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound (450g) potato gnocchi; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 teaspoon sugar; Salt and black pepper to taste; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi! The combination of pillowy gnocchi nestled in a rich, creamy tomato sauce with fresh basil is simply divine. Each bite melts in your mouth, and the flavors are incredibly comforting. I find that the addition of a touch of cream really elevates this dish, providing a deliciously velvety texture that pairs well with the tomatoes. Perfect for a cozy dinner or a special occasion, this recipe never fails to impress my family and friends!

Created by

Eden Clarke

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:52:12.495Z

When I first tried my hand at this Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi, I was pleasantly surprised by how simple it was to prepare yet so delicious. The key to a great sauce lies in simmering the tomatoes just enough to infuse the cream without losing their freshness. I love to use freshly chopped basil right at the end for a burst of flavor. Trust me, it makes such a difference!

This dish is quickly becoming a family favorite, and I often serve it with a side of garlic bread. I’ve found that the gnocchi absorbs the sauce beautifully, making every bite comforting. Don’t forget to sprinkle some Parmesan cheese on top just before serving for the perfect finishing touch!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Creamy texture that perfectly coats every gnocchi
Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor that brightens the dish
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights

      

The Importance of Choosing the Right Gnocchi

Selecting high-quality potato gnocchi can greatly influence the outcome of your dish. Look for gnocchi made with simple ingredients; varieties with excessive additives can lead to a dense texture. Fresh gnocchi often has a lighter feel and more distinct potato flavor, enhancing the overall taste of your creamy tomato basil sauce. If you can, make your own gnocchi from scratch for a truly special touch—it's surprisingly rewarding and allows you to control the texture and flavor.

Cooking gnocchi is a quick process, generally taking just 2-3 minutes in boiling water until they float to the surface. This floating indicator is crucial; it shows that they're perfectly cooked. Avoid overcooking, as this can cause them to become mushy. If you find yourself with leftovers, briefly sauté them in olive oil after boiling to create a delightful crispy exterior while keeping the center pillowy.

Crafting the Perfect Tomato Sauce

When preparing the sauce, take care to sauté the garlic until it's fragrant but not browned—this typically takes about a minute over medium heat. Overcooking can impart a bitter taste, overshadowing the fresh tomato flavor. Using quality crushed tomatoes is also critical; a can of San Marzano tomatoes works wonders, providing a rich and robust flavor that pairs beautifully with the heavy cream you're about to add.

Once you mix in the heavy cream, aim for a gentle simmer rather than a rapid boil. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully without curdling the cream, achieving that velvety texture we love. Cooking just 2-3 minutes after adding the gnocchi ensures everything is heated through and the sauce thickens slightly to coat the gnocchi effectively.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

1 pound (450g) potato gnocchi
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 teaspoon sugar
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. This usually takes 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 1 minute until fragrant. Add the crushed tomatoes, sugar, salt, and black pepper.

Let it simmer for 8-10 minutes.

Combine and Finish

Stir in the heavy cream and cooked gnocchi, mixing well to coat. Add the chopped basil and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until heated through. Adjust seasoning if necessary.

Serve

Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top and additional basil if desired.

Pro Tips

For added flavor, you can also toss in some spinach or fresh mozzarella before serving. They will melt beautifully into the sauce!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers (though it rarely happens in my home!), store the creamy tomato basil gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep in mind that gnocchi can absorb the sauce over time, which may change the texture. To rejuvenate leftovers, add a splash of milk or broth when reheating in a skillet; this helps recreate that creamy consistency and prevents sticking.

Reheating the gnocchi can be done in the microwave, but for optimal results, I recommend using a skillet. Heat the skillet over medium-low heat and add a bit of olive oil, then warm the gnocchi gently, stirring occasionally until heated through. This method also allows for a bit of crisping, enhancing the texture contrast between the creamy sauce and the gnocchi.

Delicious Variations

Feel free to customize this creamy tomato basil gnocchi by adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers. These additions not only boost the nutritional value but also add vibrant colors and flavors. You could even toss in some cooked Italian sausage or grilled chicken for a heartier version that’s perfect for meat lovers.

For a hint of spice, consider adding red pepper flakes to the sauce after sautéing the garlic. The combination of creamy, spicy, and tangy makes for a delightful contrast that elevates this simple dish. Alternatively, switch out the basil for fresh spinach or arugula for a different green base, each imparting a unique flavor profile to your sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi will elevate this dish even more.

→ Can I make it dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with a non-dairy cream alternative and omit the cheese topping.

→ How long can I store leftovers?

You can store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

→ Can I freeze the gnocchi?

Yes, freeze uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag. Cook from frozen when ready to use.