Creamy Tomato Gnocchi

Featured in Pasta and Noodles.

Transform soft gnocchi into a wow dinner by folding them into a silky tomato sauce blended with burrata. The creamy cheese seeps into the sauce, deepening every bite with bold flavors. While simmering, the sauce balances depth with a light finish, making it perfect for the gnocchi's delicate texture. Quick to prepare in half an hour, this dish delivers a rich, restaurant-quality meal that's a lifesaver for busy nights.
punchofyummy
Updated on Mon, 17 Mar 2025 18:04:45 GMT
Creamy tomato gnocchi with fresh basil, cherry tomatoes, and a dollop of ricotta. Pin it
Creamy tomato gnocchi with fresh basil, cherry tomatoes, and a dollop of ricotta. | pinchofyummy.com

I stumbled on this Creamy Tomato Gnocchi while scrambling for a quick yet impressive dinner. It's now my go-to 30-minute wonder. There's something magical about those soft gnocchi dumplings bathed in garlicky tomato goodness with that creamy burrata on top—it's like a warm hug in food form.

Whip Up Wonder In Minutes

You'll only need seven ingredients to work this kitchen miracle. While your gnocchi boils, the sauce comes together, making this perfect when you're short on time. Feel free to throw in extra stuff, but trust me, it's already fantastic on its own.

Your Shopping List

  • Olive Oil: Grab the fancy bottle, you'll taste the difference.
  • Gnocchi: I love DeLallo brand, but any good quality works fine.
  • Garlic: Eight finely chopped cloves to build amazing flavor.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Hunt for the juiciest, sweetest ones at the store.
  • Heavy Cream: This turns everything wonderfully smooth.
  • Basil: Get those fresh green leaves for the perfect finish.
  • Burrata: Check the specialty cheese area—it should feel pillowy to touch.

Time To Create

Build Your Base
Heat up that oil and slowly cook your garlic till your home fills with that heavenly smell. Toss in tomatoes and let them pop and melt down.
Handle The Gnocchi
Drop them in bubbling salty water and don't forget to keep some cooking liquid before you drain.
Mix Everything
Combine your sauce with gnocchi and splash in that starchy water until everything looks shiny and well-coated.
Crown Your Creation
Tear open that soft burrata on top, sprinkle with fresh basil and dig in while it's still steaming.

Twist It Up

I sometimes add some chicken or shrimp when I want extra protein. A handful of baby spinach works wonders too. Want some kick? Throw in some red pepper flakes. You can even try using cauliflower gnocchi if you're cutting down on carbs.

A bowl of gnocchi topped with cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a dollop of cream, garnished with black pepper. Pin it
A bowl of gnocchi topped with cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a dollop of cream, garnished with black pepper. | pinchofyummy.com

Storing Leftovers

This dish stays good in your fridge for about four days. When reheating, go slow and add a bit of water to liven up the sauce. Don't store it with the burrata though—add fresh cheese when you're ready to eat. It freezes wonderfully if you leave out the cheese.

Great Side Matches

Try pairing with a light green salad to balance the richness. Grab a glass of chilled white wine if you're feeling fancy. And always serve it hot with extra basil nearby.

Pro Secrets

Don't cheap out on the gnocchi—it really matters. Give those tomatoes plenty of time to burst for better flavor. And never throw away that pasta cooking water, it's the secret to a silky smooth sauce.

Fast Facts

Traditional gnocchi contains potatoes, flour and eggs. You'll find burrata near the specialty cheeses. Going dairy-free? Plant-based cream works well, just skip the cheese part. And yes, it freezes great without the burrata.

Soul-Satisfying Goodness

This meal never disappoints anyone at my table. It's simple enough for a weeknight but fancy enough for guests. Once you taste those soft gnocchi coated in that velvety sauce, you'll understand why I can't stop making it.

A bowl of gnocchi topped with cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a dollop of creamy ricotta cheese in a vibrant orange sauce. Pin it
A bowl of gnocchi topped with cherry tomatoes, fresh basil, and a dollop of creamy ricotta cheese in a vibrant orange sauce. | pinchofyummy.com

Frequently Asked Questions

→ Does this keep well for later?
Yep, skip the burrata and freeze for up to 3 months. Add burrata fresh when reheating.
→ How to store any leftovers?
Leftovers will stay fresh in the fridge for 4 days. Warm gently and top with new burrata.
→ Which type of gnocchi should I use?
Potato gnocchi works best. Brands like DeLallo are a great option for this meal.
→ Can I go lighter than heavy cream?
Sure, swap in half-and-half for a slightly lighter taste.
→ Why smash the garlic?
It's to get the most flavor out. You can leave the cloves whole to easily remove them later.

Tomato Gnocchi Burrata

Soft gnocchi coated in a creamy tomato sauce, topped with fresh burrata and fragrant basil for an effortless dish.

Prep Time
10 Minutes
Cook Time
20 Minutes
Total Time
30 Minutes
By: Amelia

Category: Pasta and Noodles

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian

Yield: 6 Servings (8 cups)

Dietary: Vegetarian

Ingredients

01 1/4 cup of extra virgin olive oil.
02 6 to 8 cloves of garlic, smashed.
03 2 pints of cherry tomatoes.
04 1/2 teaspoon of red pepper flakes.
05 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.
06 1/2 teaspoon of freshly cracked black pepper.
07 1/2 cup of heavy cream.
08 32 ounces of potato gnocchi.
09 8 ounces of burrata cheese.
10 1/2 cup of fresh basil leaves.

Instructions

Step 01

Fill a big pot with salted water and bring it to a boil for the gnocchi.

Step 02

Warm the olive oil over medium heat and cook the smashed garlic until it smells amazing, around 2 minutes.

Step 03

Toss in the tomatoes and let them cook down until they’re soft, around 10 to 12 minutes. Stir in the salt, black pepper, and pepper flakes.

Step 04

Turn the heat to low, pour in the cream, and stir. Cook the gnocchi in the boiling water until it’s done.

Step 05

Put the gnocchi and 1/2 cup of pasta water into the pan with the sauce. Give it a good toss until it thickens up. Mix in the basil at the end.

Step 06

Tear apart the burrata and spread it over the dish. Add extra basil on top to garnish.

Notes

  1. Can store in the freezer without burrata for up to 3 months.
  2. Good in the fridge for 4 days.
  3. Add burrata after heating it up.

Tools You'll Need

  • A big skillet.
  • A large pot for boiling.

Allergy Information

Please check ingredients for potential allergens and consult a health professional if in doubt.
  • Contains dairy.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving)

It is important to consider this information as approximate and not to use it as definitive health advice.
  • Calories: 466
  • Total Fat: 18 g
  • Total Carbohydrate: 64 g
  • Protein: 12 g