Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi

This Italian comfort dish featuring pillowy gnocchi coated in a creamy tomato-basil sauce delivers an unforgettable meal that comes together in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.

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Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Italian

Keyword: Tomato Basil Gnocchi, Creamy Gnocchi, Italian Comfort Food, Quick Pasta Dish

Prep Time: 10

Cook Time: 15

Total Time: 25

Servings: servings

Calories: 420kcal

Equipment

Large Pot
Large Skillet
Colander

Ingredients

1 pound potato gnocchi store-bought or homemade (16 oz)
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic minced
1 small onion finely diced
1 can crushed tomatoes 14 oz
1/2 cup heavy cream substitute half-and-half for a lighter option
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves torn, plus additional for garnish
1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese plus more for serving
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
1/4 cup reserved pasta water

Instructions

Bring a large pot of generously salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions (typically 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface). Before draining, reserve 1/4 cup of pasta water for the sauce. Drain the gnocchi and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant (but not browned).
Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet, along with a pinch of salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until it starts to thicken slightly and the flavors meld together.
Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Allow the mixture to simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until the sauce takes on a beautiful orange-pink hue. Be careful not to boil the cream.
Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce, gently tossing to ensure each piece is coated. Stir in the torn basil leaves and Parmesan cheese until well incorporated. If needed, add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce.
Serve immediately, garnished with additional fresh basil and grated Parmesan cheese.

Notes

Don't rinse your gnocchi after cooking! The starch on the surface helps the sauce cling beautifully to each piece.

For a deeper flavor profile, add 1 tablespoon of tomato paste with the crushed tomatoes.

For dairy-free version, use coconut cream instead of heavy cream and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.

For a protein boost, add 1 cup of sautéed shrimp or diced chicken.

Nutrition

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