Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Dish

Creamy tomato gnocchi is my answer to those days when cravings for something comforting and quick hit all at once. The pillowy gnocchi soak up a silky tomato sauce that feels like a hug in a bowl. This is a go-to for both cozy nights and casual dinner parties because it never fails to impress while using simple ingredients I always have on hand.

I first whipped this up on a rainy afternoon when only something warm and creamy would do. Now I make it year round, happily finding any excuse to bring everyone to the table for another batch.

Ingredients

• Olive oil extra virgin: gives a fruity base for sautéing aromatics Use the freshest bottle you have for full flavor
• Yellow onion: finely chopped lays a sweet and savory aromatic foundation Look for firm onions with papery outer skins
• Garlic: minced delivers bold and aromatic notes Always choose fresh cloves for the best kick
• Crushed tomatoes: high quality is key here The better the tomatoes the brighter and richer your sauce
• Dried oregano: offers classic Italian depth and earthiness
• Dried basil or fresh basil: fresh will give the dish vibrant aroma and flavor but dried works well
• Red pepper flakes (optional): add heat or leave out for a milder sauce
• Heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk: turns the sauce creamy and luxurious Pick a brand with simple ingredients for the richest result
• Grated parmesan cheese: even a little adds nutty salty depth Try to grate your cheese fresh for the best melt and flavor
• Potato gnocchi: store-bought or homemade are ideal as they hold up beautifully in the sauce Check the date and select a package with soft pillows and no clumps
• Salt: lifts every flavor in the sauce Taste before adding extra
• Freshly ground black pepper: gives a gentle spice and rounds out the flavors
• Fresh basil leaves or parsley (garnish, optional): for color and fresh flavor Choose bright and perky leaves
• Reserved gnocchi cooking water: crucial for emulsifying and thickening your sauce

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the Aromatics:

Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat Let it warm up until it shimmers Add the finely chopped onion and cook while stirring now and then for five to seven minutes You are looking for soft translucent onions not browned ones Add the minced garlic and if you like some red pepper flakes Stir constantly for one to two minutes until the garlic releases its fragrance Do not let it brown

Build the Tomato Base:

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and stir in the dried oregano plus dried basil if using dried Let everything come to a gentle simmer Turn the heat to low cover and let the sauce simmer for fifteen to twenty minutes Stir occasionally This gives the flavors time to meld The longer the simmer the richer your sauce will be

Cook the Gnocchi:

While the sauce simmers bring a big pot of salted water to a boil Once boiling add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions Watch for the gnocchi to float which usually takes two to four minutes for store-bought Then let them cook for thirty seconds to one more minute

Reserve Gnocchi Water & Drain:

Before draining scoop out about half a cup of the starchy cooking water Reserve this in a mug or bowl Drain the gnocchi well using a colander

Finish the Creamy Sauce:

Remove the lid from the simmered tomato sauce Stir in the heavy cream and grated parmesan cheese Mix until the cheese melts fully and the sauce goes creamy Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper Keep in mind parmesan brings saltiness

Combine Gnocchi and Sauce:

Move the drained gnocchi into the skillet with your sauce Gently toss or stir to coat all the gnocchi If the sauce is too thick add small amounts of the reserved gnocchi water It helps the sauce cling perfectly to each dumpling

Simmer & Serve:

With everything combined let the gnocchi simmer for one to two minutes so flavors combine well If you chose fresh basil stir it in now

Garnish and Serve Immediately:

Split the creamy tomato gnocchi among bowls Top with extra parmesan and chopped basil or parsley for a pop of freshness Serve right away and enjoy every bite

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I especially love swirling that final bit of cream into the tomato sauce and watching it turn perfectly silky My kids still tease me for sneaking bites of gnocchi from the pan before anyone else is called to dinner

Storage Tips

Creamy tomato gnocchi will keep in the fridge in an airtight container for up to three days Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce Freezing is not recommended as gnocchi can go a little mushy after thawing

Ingredient Substitutions

No heavy cream Substitute full-fat coconut milk or a rich oat cream instead Out of parmesan Try grated pecorino or a dairy free alternative You can also swap the gnocchi for any small pasta shape in a pinch

Serving Suggestions

Pair with a crisp green salad dressed simply in olive oil and lemon Add crusty bread or garlic toast to soak up the creamy sauce For a dinner party a side of roasted broccoli or asparagus works beautifully alongside

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Recipe Roots

Tomato and cream sauces are classic in Italy especially in northern regions where dairy is common Gnocchi itself goes back centuries as a comfort food beloved throughout the country Every family has a twist My approach borrows from both tradition and my weeknight kitchen

Common Recipe Questions

→ Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk and use a dairy-free Parmesan alternative to achieve a creamy, rich texture.

→ What’s the best way to cook store-bought gnocchi?

Drop the gnocchi into boiling salted water and cook until they float to the surface. Let them cook for an additional 30 seconds, then drain well.

→ Why reserve gnocchi cooking water?

The starchy water helps emulsify and thicken the sauce, creating a silky texture that clings beautifully to the gnocchi.

→ Can I use fresh herbs instead of dried?

Absolutely. Fresh basil added at the end of cooking brings bright flavor and color to the dish. Adjust to taste.

→ How do I prevent the garlic from burning?

Always add garlic after the onions have softened and sauté briefly, stirring constantly, just until fragrant.

→ How can I add extra heat?

Increase the amount of red pepper flakes to your preference or add a pinch of chili powder to the sauce.