DisclaimerTerms Of UseGDPR PolicyCookie Policy

Recipes Pursuit

Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi Flavorful Dinner Dish

by
To create a delicious creamy tomato basil gnocchi, you need the following ingredients: - 1 pound store-bought gnocchi - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes - 1 cup heavy cream - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn - Fresh basil leaves for garnish - Parmesan shavings for garnish These ingredients come together to make a rich and flavorful dish. You can enhance the taste of your gnocchi with these optional ingredients: - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick - A splash of balsamic vinegar for tanginess - A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness Adding these can elevate the dish and cater to your taste. If you don't have some ingredients, consider these substitutions: - Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. - Swap Parmesan for pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. - Try using homemade gnocchi for a personal touch. These alternatives keep your dish flexible and fun to make. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This step is key to cooking the gnocchi just right. Once the water boils, add 1 pound of store-bought gnocchi. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. You will know they are ready when they float to the top. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. After they float, drain the gnocchi and set them aside. Next, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is warm, add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until you smell its great aroma. Then, pour in a 14-ounce can of crushed tomatoes. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together. After that, reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream gently. Mixing well will give you a smooth and creamy sauce. Then add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce. If you like a little spice, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Now it's time to bring everything together. Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi and 1 cup of torn fresh basil leaves. Make sure every piece of gnocchi gets a nice coat of sauce. Let the dish cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. This will heat everything through and let the flavors combine even more. Serve the creamy tomato basil gnocchi warm. For a lovely touch, garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves and some Parmesan shavings. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish! To cook gnocchi well, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and watch closely. They are ready when they float to the top. This usually takes about two to three minutes. Drain them gently using a colander and set them aside. Make sure not to overcook them, as they can turn mushy. Seasoning is key for great flavor. Start with fresh garlic to boost taste. Sauté it in olive oil until it smells good. Then add crushed tomatoes and let them cook for a few minutes. This helps develop a rich flavor. After adding heavy cream, stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper. If you want some heat, add red pepper flakes for a kick. Presentation makes your dish look more inviting. Serve the gnocchi in shallow bowls. Top with torn fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for flavor and style. A sprig of basil on top adds a nice touch. This makes your creamy tomato basil gnocchi look just as good as it tastes! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh basil and high-quality canned tomatoes. This will elevate the overall taste of your dish. Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Keep an eye on the gnocchi while cooking; they should float to the surface when done. Remove them promptly to prevent a mushy texture. Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half for a less rich option. Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp. Simply mix them in with the gnocchi before serving. {{image_2}} You can make your creamy tomato basil gnocchi even heartier by adding protein. Chicken or shrimp work well. Just sauté them in olive oil before adding the garlic. Cook them until they are done, then follow the rest of the recipe. For a meatier dish, diced sausage or ground beef can add a savory touch. Cook these proteins first, then mix in the sauce and gnocchi. If you want a vegetarian option, simply skip the meat. This dish is already rich and creamy. You can add more veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. This gives a similar flavor without dairy. You can get creative with flavors in this dish. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can enhance the taste. A splash of balsamic vinegar can add a sweet tang. Try mixing in sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. For spice lovers, consider adding extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. These variations keep the dish exciting and fresh every time you make it! After enjoying your creamy tomato basil gnocchi, let it cool down. Place leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to separate any extra sauce, as it may change the texture. To reheat, you can use a skillet or microwave. If using a skillet, add a splash of water or cream. Heat on low, stirring gently. This keeps the gnocchi soft. In the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm. You can freeze creamy tomato basil gnocchi, but it’s best to freeze it without the sauce. First, cook the gnocchi and let it cool. Place it in a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to two months. When ready, cook the gnocchi in water and then add your sauce. This helps keep the flavor and texture right. You can pair creamy tomato basil gnocchi with various sides. A simple green salad adds a fresh touch. You can also serve garlic bread for a crunchy side. A glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors well. Roasted or steamed vegetables make a great addition. For a heartier meal, consider grilled chicken or shrimp on the side. All these options enhance the dish and create a lovely meal. Making gnocchi from scratch is fun and easy! Start with 2 pounds of potatoes. Bake them until soft, then peel and mash. Mix the mashed potatoes with 1 cup of flour and 1 egg. Knead the dough until smooth. Roll it into long ropes and cut into small pieces. Use a fork to create ridges on each piece. Boil in salted water until they float. This homemade gnocchi will taste fresh and delightful! Yes, you can use many sauces with this dish! A basil pesto sauce adds a vibrant flavor. Alfredo sauce gives a rich and creamy twist. A simple marinara sauce can also work well. For a spicy kick, try arrabbiata sauce. Each sauce changes the dish's taste while keeping it delicious. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite sauce! In this blog post, we covered how to make creamy tomato basil gnocchi. I shared the ingredients, including options for flavor and useful substitutions. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparing the dish and tips for perfecting the gnocchi. We explored variations to suit your taste, along with storage tips. In closing, this dish is versatile and simple. Enjoy experimenting, and make it your own!

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

If you’re searching for a quick, delicious dinner, look no further! This Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi is a flavorful dish that will impress your family and friends. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can whip up a meal that’s both comforting and satisfying. Join me as we explore how to make this creamy favorite, along with tips to boost the flavor and variations to suit every taste. Let’s get cooking!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Quick and Easy: This recipe can be prepared in just 25 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
  2. Rich and Creamy Flavor: The combination of heavy cream and Parmesan cheese creates a luxurious sauce that complements the gnocchi beautifully.
  3. Fresh Ingredients: Using fresh basil and garlic adds vibrant flavor and aroma, elevating the overall dish.
  4. Customizable: You can easily adjust the spice level by adding or omitting red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

Ingredients

List of Required Ingredients

To create a delicious creamy tomato basil gnocchi, you need the following ingredients:

– 1 pound store-bought gnocchi

– 2 tablespoons olive oil

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

– Salt and pepper to taste

– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

– Parmesan shavings for garnish

These ingredients come together to make a rich and flavorful dish.

Optional Ingredients for Added Flavor

You can enhance the taste of your gnocchi with these optional ingredients:

– 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick

– A splash of balsamic vinegar for tanginess

– A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness

Adding these can elevate the dish and cater to your taste.

Substitutions and Alternatives

If you don’t have some ingredients, consider these substitutions:

– Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce.

– Swap Parmesan for pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor.

– Try using homemade gnocchi for a personal touch.

These alternatives keep your dish flexible and fun to make.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Preparing the Gnocchi

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This step is key to cooking the gnocchi just right. Once the water boils, add 1 pound of store-bought gnocchi. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. You will know they are ready when they float to the top. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. After they float, drain the gnocchi and set them aside.

Making the Creamy Tomato Sauce

Next, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is warm, add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until you smell its great aroma. Then, pour in a 14-ounce can of crushed tomatoes. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together.

After that, reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream gently. Mixing well will give you a smooth and creamy sauce. Then add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce. If you like a little spice, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.

Combining Gnocchi with Sauce

Now it’s time to bring everything together. Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi and 1 cup of torn fresh basil leaves. Make sure every piece of gnocchi gets a nice coat of sauce. Let the dish cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. This will heat everything through and let the flavors combine even more.

Serve the creamy tomato basil gnocchi warm. For a lovely touch, garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves and some Parmesan shavings. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish!

Tips & Tricks

Cooking Gnocchi Perfectly

To cook gnocchi well, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and watch closely. They are ready when they float to the top. This usually takes about two to three minutes. Drain them gently using a colander and set them aside. Make sure not to overcook them, as they can turn mushy.

Enhancing Flavor with Seasoning

Seasoning is key for great flavor. Start with fresh garlic to boost taste. Sauté it in olive oil until it smells good. Then add crushed tomatoes and let them cook for a few minutes. This helps develop a rich flavor. After adding heavy cream, stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper. If you want some heat, add red pepper flakes for a kick.

Presentation Tips for Serving

Presentation makes your dish look more inviting. Serve the gnocchi in shallow bowls. Top with torn fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for flavor and style. A sprig of basil on top adds a nice touch. This makes your creamy tomato basil gnocchi look just as good as it tastes!

Pro Tips

  1. Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh basil and high-quality canned tomatoes. This will elevate the overall taste of your dish.
  2. Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Keep an eye on the gnocchi while cooking; they should float to the surface when done. Remove them promptly to prevent a mushy texture.
  3. Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half for a less rich option.
  4. Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp. Simply mix them in with the gnocchi before serving.

Variations

Adding Protein Options

You can make your creamy tomato basil gnocchi even heartier by adding protein. Chicken or shrimp work well. Just sauté them in olive oil before adding the garlic. Cook them until they are done, then follow the rest of the recipe. For a meatier dish, diced sausage or ground beef can add a savory touch. Cook these proteins first, then mix in the sauce and gnocchi.

Vegetarian and Vegan Alternatives

If you want a vegetarian option, simply skip the meat. This dish is already rich and creamy. You can add more veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. This gives a similar flavor without dairy.

Creative Flavor Additions

You can get creative with flavors in this dish. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can enhance the taste. A splash of balsamic vinegar can add a sweet tang. Try mixing in sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. For spice lovers, consider adding extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. These variations keep the dish exciting and fresh every time you make it!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

After enjoying your creamy tomato basil gnocchi, let it cool down. Place leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to separate any extra sauce, as it may change the texture.

Reheating Instructions

To reheat, you can use a skillet or microwave. If using a skillet, add a splash of water or cream. Heat on low, stirring gently. This keeps the gnocchi soft. In the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm.

Freezing Gnocchi Dishes

You can freeze creamy tomato basil gnocchi, but it’s best to freeze it without the sauce. First, cook the gnocchi and let it cool. Place it in a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to two months. When ready, cook the gnocchi in water and then add your sauce. This helps keep the flavor and texture right.

FAQs

What can I serve with creamy tomato basil gnocchi?

You can pair creamy tomato basil gnocchi with various sides. A simple green salad adds a fresh touch. You can also serve garlic bread for a crunchy side. A glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors well. Roasted or steamed vegetables make a great addition. For a heartier meal, consider grilled chicken or shrimp on the side. All these options enhance the dish and create a lovely meal.

How do I make gnocchi from scratch?

Making gnocchi from scratch is fun and easy! Start with 2 pounds of potatoes. Bake them until soft, then peel and mash. Mix the mashed potatoes with 1 cup of flour and 1 egg. Knead the dough until smooth. Roll it into long ropes and cut into small pieces. Use a fork to create ridges on each piece. Boil in salted water until they float. This homemade gnocchi will taste fresh and delightful!

Can I use a different type of sauce for this dish?

Yes, you can use many sauces with this dish! A basil pesto sauce adds a vibrant flavor. Alfredo sauce gives a rich and creamy twist. A simple marinara sauce can also work well. For a spicy kick, try arrabbiata sauce. Each sauce changes the dish’s taste while keeping it delicious. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite sauce!

In this blog post, we covered how to make creamy tomato basil gnocchi. I shared the ingredients, including options for flavor and useful substitutions. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparing the dish and tips for perfecting the gnocchi. We explored variations to suit your taste, along with storage tips. In closing, this dish is versatile and simple. Enjoy experimenting, and make it your ow

To create a delicious creamy tomato basil gnocchi, you need the following ingredients: - 1 pound store-bought gnocchi - 2 tablespoons olive oil - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes - 1 cup heavy cream - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese - Salt and pepper to taste - 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn - Fresh basil leaves for garnish - Parmesan shavings for garnish These ingredients come together to make a rich and flavorful dish. You can enhance the taste of your gnocchi with these optional ingredients: - 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes for a spicy kick - A splash of balsamic vinegar for tanginess - A squeeze of lemon juice for brightness Adding these can elevate the dish and cater to your taste. If you don't have some ingredients, consider these substitutions: - Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce. - Swap Parmesan for pecorino Romano for a sharper flavor. - Try using homemade gnocchi for a personal touch. These alternatives keep your dish flexible and fun to make. {{ingredient_image_1}} Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This step is key to cooking the gnocchi just right. Once the water boils, add 1 pound of store-bought gnocchi. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. You will know they are ready when they float to the top. This usually takes about 2 to 3 minutes. After they float, drain the gnocchi and set them aside. Next, grab a large skillet and heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. When the oil is warm, add 2 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté the garlic for about 1 minute until you smell its great aroma. Then, pour in a 14-ounce can of crushed tomatoes. Bring this mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes. This helps all the flavors blend together. After that, reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream gently. Mixing well will give you a smooth and creamy sauce. Then add 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts into the sauce. If you like a little spice, add 1/4 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Now it's time to bring everything together. Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi and 1 cup of torn fresh basil leaves. Make sure every piece of gnocchi gets a nice coat of sauce. Let the dish cook for another 2 to 3 minutes. This will heat everything through and let the flavors combine even more. Serve the creamy tomato basil gnocchi warm. For a lovely touch, garnish each bowl with fresh basil leaves and some Parmesan shavings. Enjoy this comforting and flavorful dish! To cook gnocchi well, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and watch closely. They are ready when they float to the top. This usually takes about two to three minutes. Drain them gently using a colander and set them aside. Make sure not to overcook them, as they can turn mushy. Seasoning is key for great flavor. Start with fresh garlic to boost taste. Sauté it in olive oil until it smells good. Then add crushed tomatoes and let them cook for a few minutes. This helps develop a rich flavor. After adding heavy cream, stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Don't forget to season with salt and pepper. If you want some heat, add red pepper flakes for a kick. Presentation makes your dish look more inviting. Serve the gnocchi in shallow bowls. Top with torn fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Add a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for flavor and style. A sprig of basil on top adds a nice touch. This makes your creamy tomato basil gnocchi look just as good as it tastes! Pro Tips Use Fresh Ingredients: For the best flavor, use fresh basil and high-quality canned tomatoes. This will elevate the overall taste of your dish. Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Keep an eye on the gnocchi while cooking; they should float to the surface when done. Remove them promptly to prevent a mushy texture. Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half for a less rich option. Add Protein: For a heartier meal, consider adding cooked chicken or shrimp. Simply mix them in with the gnocchi before serving. {{image_2}} You can make your creamy tomato basil gnocchi even heartier by adding protein. Chicken or shrimp work well. Just sauté them in olive oil before adding the garlic. Cook them until they are done, then follow the rest of the recipe. For a meatier dish, diced sausage or ground beef can add a savory touch. Cook these proteins first, then mix in the sauce and gnocchi. If you want a vegetarian option, simply skip the meat. This dish is already rich and creamy. You can add more veggies like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini. For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan cheese. This gives a similar flavor without dairy. You can get creative with flavors in this dish. Adding fresh herbs like thyme or oregano can enhance the taste. A splash of balsamic vinegar can add a sweet tang. Try mixing in sun-dried tomatoes for an extra burst of flavor. For spice lovers, consider adding extra red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce. These variations keep the dish exciting and fresh every time you make it! After enjoying your creamy tomato basil gnocchi, let it cool down. Place leftovers in an airtight container. This keeps it fresh. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to separate any extra sauce, as it may change the texture. To reheat, you can use a skillet or microwave. If using a skillet, add a splash of water or cream. Heat on low, stirring gently. This keeps the gnocchi soft. In the microwave, cover the dish with a damp paper towel. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between, until warm. You can freeze creamy tomato basil gnocchi, but it’s best to freeze it without the sauce. First, cook the gnocchi and let it cool. Place it in a freezer-safe bag and remove as much air as possible. You can freeze it for up to two months. When ready, cook the gnocchi in water and then add your sauce. This helps keep the flavor and texture right. You can pair creamy tomato basil gnocchi with various sides. A simple green salad adds a fresh touch. You can also serve garlic bread for a crunchy side. A glass of white wine, like Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors well. Roasted or steamed vegetables make a great addition. For a heartier meal, consider grilled chicken or shrimp on the side. All these options enhance the dish and create a lovely meal. Making gnocchi from scratch is fun and easy! Start with 2 pounds of potatoes. Bake them until soft, then peel and mash. Mix the mashed potatoes with 1 cup of flour and 1 egg. Knead the dough until smooth. Roll it into long ropes and cut into small pieces. Use a fork to create ridges on each piece. Boil in salted water until they float. This homemade gnocchi will taste fresh and delightful! Yes, you can use many sauces with this dish! A basil pesto sauce adds a vibrant flavor. Alfredo sauce gives a rich and creamy twist. A simple marinara sauce can also work well. For a spicy kick, try arrabbiata sauce. Each sauce changes the dish's taste while keeping it delicious. Feel free to experiment and find your favorite sauce! In this blog post, we covered how to make creamy tomato basil gnocchi. I shared the ingredients, including options for flavor and useful substitutions. You learned step-by-step instructions for preparing the dish and tips for perfecting the gnocchi. We explored variations to suit your taste, along with storage tips. In closing, this dish is versatile and simple. Enjoy experimenting, and make it your own!

Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi

A delicious and creamy dish featuring gnocchi, crushed tomatoes, and fresh basil.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4
Calories 400 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound store-bought gnocchi
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 0.5 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 0.25 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
  • to taste Salt and pepper
  • 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
  • for garnish Fresh basil leaves
  • for garnish Parmesan shavings

Instructions
 

  • In a large pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
  • In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute, until fragrant.
  • Stir in the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Cook for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
  • Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Mix well until fully combined and the sauce is creamy.
  • Add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until melted and smooth. If using, add the red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  • Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi and torn basil leaves, ensuring they are well coated in the sauce.
  • Allow the dish to cook for an additional 2-3 minutes to heat through, stirring occasionally.
  • Serve the creamy tomato basil gnocchi warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and Parmesan shavings.

Notes

Serve in shallow bowls with a sprig of fresh basil on top for an appealing look, and a sprinkle of extra Parmesan for added flavor.
Keyword basil, creamy, gnocchi, pasta, tomato

WANT TO SAVE THIS RECIPE?

Leave a Comment

Recipe Rating