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; 1/2 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Heartfelt Kitchen

I absolutely love making creamy tomato gnocchi when I crave something comforting and hearty. The combination of soft gnocchi with a rich tomato sauce creates a wonderfully satisfying dish. What I truly enjoy is how quickly it comes together—perfect for busy weeknights! With pantry staples like canned tomatoes and cream, this dish can be whipped up in no time and tastes indulgent without a lot of fuss. Every bite is a reminder that simple ingredients can create something truly special.

Created by

Adeline Morris

Last updated on 2026-02-08T06:00:36.789Z

As I was experimenting in the kitchen one evening, I stumbled upon the delicious combination of creamy sauce and tender gnocchi. The secret to this dish is allowing the tomatoes to simmer gently, which enhances their natural sweetness. I added a splash of heavy cream to give it that luscious texture and a sprinkle of fresh basil for a pop of color and flavor.

What I learned from this cooking adventure is that timing is everything. Allowing the gnocchi to cook just until they float means they'll remain perfectly tender rather than mushy. Trust me, the joy of seeing them bob up in the sauce is a delightful sign that dinner is nearly ready!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Rich and creamy tomato sauce that envelops each gnocchi
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any night of the week
Comfort food that brings warmth and satisfaction in every bite

Unlocking the Flavor of Gnocchi

To enhance the flavor of your gnocchi, consider pan-frying them for a few minutes after boiling. This technique gives the gnocchi a slightly crispy exterior while retaining their soft, pillowy center. Just heat a tablespoon of olive oil in the skillet and carefully add the gnocchi, cooking until they develop a golden-brown crust, typically 3-5 minutes. This added texture creates a delightful contrast with the creamy tomato sauce.

It's crucial to ensure your gnocchi are cooked properly. If they sit in the boiling water too long, they can become mushy. Watch for the telltale sign: they’ll float to the top within 2-3 minutes. Once they do, taste one to confirm they're cooked through before draining. This quick cooking time allows the gnocchi to absorb the flavors from the sauce when combined.

Perfecting the Tomato Sauce

The base of this creamy tomato sauce is built with canned tomatoes, which provide convenience and consistent flavor. Choose high-quality, diced tomatoes as they form the foundation of the sauce and contribute to its richness. Don’t forget to add a pinch of sugar if your tomatoes are too acidic, balancing the overall flavor of the dish. Simmer the sauce properly; a good five minutes allows it to meld and develop a deeper flavor profile.

A tip for thickening your sauce is to let it simmer uncovered, which evaporates excess moisture, enhancing the richness. If you prefer a chunkier sauce, mash some of the tomatoes gently with a spoon while they cook. This adds to the texture while still allowing for the creaminess that complements the gnocchi beautifully.

Garnishing and Serving Suggestions

Serving this gnocchi dish can be elevated by adding fresh herbs, like basil, which add a pop of color and freshness. I like to chiffonade the basil leaves for a delicate appearance. Additionally, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top before serving enhances the savory flavor and adds a touch of elegance. You can also drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil for richness.

If you’d like to pair this dish with sides, consider serving it with a simple arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread also complements the creamy sauce, allowing you to savor every bit. This dish is versatile enough to serve as a stand-alone meal, but these sides can elevate the dining experience.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

1 pound gnocchi
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

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. 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 until fragrant, about 1 minute. Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and let them simmer for about 5 minutes.

Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and gently stir to combine, cooking for another 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.

Serve

Ladle the creamy tomato gnocchi into bowls and garnish with fresh basil before serving. Enjoy your meal!

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor kick, consider adding some red pepper flakes to the sauce or incorporating grated Parmesan cheese right before serving for creaminess and tang.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftover creamy tomato gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, be cautious not to overcook as the gnocchi can become gummy. Warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or additional cream to loosen the sauce if necessary. Stir frequently until heated through, which may take about 3-5 minutes.

If you want to prepare this dish ahead of time, you can cook the gnocchi and sauce separately. Store the gnocchi and sauce in separate containers and combine them just before serving. This helps maintain the integrity of the gnocchi texture while ensuring maximum flavor right before you dig in.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you're looking to lighten this dish, you can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a blend of Greek yogurt and milk. This will alter the richness but keep the creamy texture. Another option is to use dairy-free alternatives, like coconut cream or cashew cream, which still create a luscious sauce without dairy.

For a twist on flavor, consider adding sautéed vegetables such as spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to the sauce. This not only increases the nutritional value but also adds a variety of textures and tastes, making the dish more hearty and visually appealing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use homemade gnocchi instead?

Absolutely! Fresh homemade gnocchi will add a personal touch and taste fantastic.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a plant-based cream for a lighter version.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

I recommend enjoying it fresh, but you can freeze the sauce and gnocchi separately. Reheat them together when you're ready to eat.

→ Can I add vegetables to this recipe?

Yes! Spinach or mushrooms would be great additions to the dish for extra flavor and nutrients.