Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe

If you’re craving cozy comfort food with a touch of Italian flair, Creamy Tomato Gnocchi is about to become your new weeknight obsession. Pillowy gnocchi float in a silky, garlicky tomato sauce enriched with cream, basil, and parmesan—each bite is packed with simple, honest flavor. This beloved dish comes together in just about 25 minutes, making it perfect for both special gatherings or an easy, satisfying dinner any night of the week. Whether you’re a gnocchi aficionado or just branching out, this recipe is impossibly easy and incredibly delicious!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Tomato Gnocchi relies on a handful of kitchen staples, each playing a starring role in taste, texture, or appearance. Stick with these essentials to create that lusciously rich sauce and the perfect pillowy dumplings every time.

• Gnocchi: The star of this dish—choose store-bought for convenience or fresh for extra-soft texture.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Adds depth and richness; use a good quality for more authentic results.
• San Marzano Peeled Tomatoes: These naturally sweet, low-acid tomatoes form the sauce’s irresistible base.
• Garlic: A quick sautée brings out its fragrant, savory aromas that lift the sauce.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Imparts fresh, peppery brightness that tastes like summertime.
• Heavy Cream: Responsible for the creamy, velvety mouthfeel that makes this dish unforgettable.
• Sugar: Just a touch helps balance the tomatoes’ acidity and rounds out flavors.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out every ingredient’s best self—season to taste!
• Pepper: Adds a gentle kick and depth at every bite; freshly cracked is best.
• Parmesan Cheese, Shredded: Melts into the sauce and makes for a classic, cheesy finish.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Gnocchi

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package directions—this usually takes just a few minutes. The gnocchi are ready when they float to the surface. Drain them immediately and set aside so they stay tender and ready to soak up all the flavor from the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic

In a deep-sided skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for just 20 to 30 seconds, stirring constantly—watch closely since garlic can burn quickly! As soon as it’s fragrant, you’re ready for the next step.

Step 3: Build the Tomato Basil Sauce

Pour in your San Marzano peeled tomatoes with their juices, and add in the basil leaves. Use a spoon to break up the tomatoes a bit so they can meld into the sauce. Let the mixture come to a gentle boil, then reduce to medium-low and simmer uncovered for 5 to 6 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken and allows the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Make It Creamy

Stir in the heavy cream, turning the tomato base into a dreamy, swirl-of-pink sauce. Let it gently bubble for another 5 minutes. The transformation is pure magic—watch as the sauce turns glossy and rich!

Step 5: Season to Perfection

Add in the sugar, salt, and pepper, then remove the basil leaves. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. The sugar softens the tomato’s acidity, while the salt and pepper tie everything together.

Step 6: Combine the Gnocchi and Sauce

Return your cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently toss them in the creamy tomato sauce. Make sure every gnocchi nugget is coated in that luscious sauce. Take a moment to admire your handiwork!

Step 7: Finish and Serve

Sprinkle everything with freshly shredded parmesan cheese. The cheese melts right into the warm sauce, adding a final note of salty, nutty goodness. Your Creamy Tomato Gnocchi is now ready—grab a fork and dig in!

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Gnocchi

Garnishes

A handful of fresh basil leaves, a generous dusting of parmesan, or even a drizzle of high-quality olive oil make beautiful (and tasty) final touches for your Creamy Tomato Gnocchi. If you’re feeling extra fancy, add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat or cracked black pepper for a rustic effect.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs perfectly with a crisp green salad tossed in a lemony vinaigrette, or a side of classic garlic bread for scooping up extra sauce. Roasted vegetables work beautifully, too—think asparagus, broccolini, or zucchini for a well-rounded meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Creamy Tomato Gnocchi family-style in a large, shallow bowl at the table with plenty of parmesan on the side. Or, for date night, spoon it into individual ramekins and broil for a minute with more cheese on top for a bubbly, golden finish. For gatherings, tiny appetizer portions in small cups make for a fun and elegant starter.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Any leftover Creamy Tomato Gnocchi will keep beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just make sure it has cooled to room temperature before sealing to preserve the silky texture of the sauce.

Freezing

For longer storage, Creamy Tomato Gnocchi freezes surprisingly well. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty bags, squeezing out excess air. They’ll keep in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm the gnocchi gently in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk over low heat, stirring often. Avoid microwaving for too long, as gnocchi can become rubbery. Add an extra sprinkle of fresh parmesan before serving to revive that irresistible creaminess.

FAQs

Can I use homemade gnocchi instead of store-bought?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi brings a super-light texture that’s a treat in Creamy Tomato Gnocchi. Just be careful to cook them gently, as they’re more delicate than store-bought varieties.

Is there a dairy-free version of Creamy Tomato Gnocchi?

Yes, you can make a dairy-free version by swapping heavy cream for coconut cream or a splash of unsweetened cashew cream, and use vegan parmesan or nutritional yeast for a cheesy note.

What if I can’t find San Marzano tomatoes?

No worries—use any high-quality peeled whole tomatoes you like. You may want to add a bit more basil to mimic that signature San Marzano flavor.

How do I avoid rubbery gnocchi when reheating?

Always reheat gently on the stovetop with a little extra liquid, stirring frequently. Avoid letting the gnocchi boil or sit in heat for too long, as this can alter their tender texture.

Can I add proteins or vegetables?

Absolutely! Sautéed spinach, sautéed mushrooms, or diced grilled chicken make fabulous additions, bulking up the Creamy Tomato Gnocchi for a complete meal.

Final Thoughts

There’s something irresistible about a bowl of Creamy Tomato Gnocchi—the comfort, the quick preparation, and the vibrant flavors just never get old. I hope this recipe brightens your dinner table and brings smiles all around. Try it soon and see why it’s destined to become a cherished favorite in your home!

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