Get ready to savor a delightful dinner with my Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi recipe! This dish combines soft potato gnocchi with rich, creamy tomato sauce and fresh basil. It's easy to make and perfect for any night of the week. I’ll guide you through each step, from cooking the gnocchi to creating a luscious sauce. Let’s dive into this flavor-packed meal that will impress your family and friends!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Comforting and Creamy: This dish provides a warm, rich flavor that is perfect for cozy dinners.
- Quick and Easy: With a total prep and cook time of just 25 minutes, it's perfect for busy weeknights.
- Fresh Ingredients: The use of fresh basil and quality tomatoes enhances the overall taste and aroma.
- Versatile and Customizable: You can easily adjust the ingredients or add vegetables to suit your preferences.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 can (14 oz) high-quality crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup rich heavy cream
- ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, coarsely chopped
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
The main ingredients for this creamy tomato basil gnocchi are simple yet flavorful. Potato gnocchi serves as the base, offering a soft and pillowy texture. Extra virgin olive oil adds richness and depth. Garlic brings a fragrant aroma, enhancing the overall flavor. Crushed tomatoes give the sauce its bright color and fresh taste. Heavy cream creates that desired creaminess, making the dish feel indulgent. Parmesan cheese adds a savory note, while fresh basil contributes a pop of freshness. The granulated sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Finally, salt and pepper round out the dish perfectly.
Optional Ingredients
- Extra grated Parmesan for serving
- Alternative herbs or seasonings
You can elevate the dish with extra grated Parmesan, giving it a cheesy finish. Feel free to explore alternative herbs or seasonings, such as oregano or thyme, to customize the flavor.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Gnocchi
1. Boil a large pot of water. Add a generous pinch of salt.
2. Cook the gnocchi according to the package. They are ready when they float. This should take about 2-3 minutes.
3. Drain the gnocchi well and set aside.
Making the Sauce
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Stir often until it smells great but does not brown.
3. Stir in the crushed tomatoes and sugar. This helps balance the sauce.
4. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes while stirring occasionally.
5. Slowly pour in the heavy cream, mixing until smooth and creamy.
Combining Ingredients
1. Gradually add the grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce. Stir until it melts completely.
2. Carefully add the cooked gnocchi into the sauce. Use a large spoon to toss them gently.
3. Let the gnocchi simmer in the sauce for 2-3 minutes. This helps the flavors blend.
4. Remove the skillet from heat. Gently fold in the chopped basil.
5. Stir until just combined. Save a few basil leaves for garnish.
Tips & Tricks
Achieving Creaminess
To make your gnocchi sauce creamy, use high-quality cream. This makes a big difference. The richer the cream, the smoother your sauce will be. You can also add a teaspoon of sugar. This small amount helps balance the acidity from the tomatoes.
Cooking Techniques
Avoid burnt garlic by cooking it gently. Heat the oil until it’s hot, then add the garlic. Stir it often to release its flavor without burning it. If garlic burns, the sauce can taste bitter. When simmering, let the sauce cook slowly. This step helps the flavors meld together nicely. Stir occasionally to keep everything blended.
Presentation Tips
For a great look, serve your creamy gnocchi in shallow bowls. This helps show off the beautiful sauce. You can sprinkle extra grated Parmesan on top. A fresh basil sprig adds color and flavor. Serve the dish warm to enjoy the full taste and comfort.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Always opt for fresh basil and high-quality tomatoes for the best flavor in your dish.
- Perfectly Cooked Gnocchi: Keep an eye on the gnocchi while cooking; they should be removed from boiling water as soon as they float to ensure a tender texture.
- Adjusting Acidity: If your sauce tastes too acidic, a pinch of sugar can help balance the flavors without making it sweet.
- Serving Suggestions: For added texture, consider topping your dish with toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of balsamic reduction just before serving.
Variations
Vegetarian Modifications
You can easily make this dish vegetarian. Start by swapping the gnocchi with hearty vegetables. Try zucchini, mushrooms, or even cauliflower. These veggies add great flavor and texture. For the cream, use plant-based options like coconut cream or cashew cream. These keep the dish rich while being dairy-free.
Different Types of Gnocchi
Gnocchi comes in many types! You can use sweet potato or butternut squash gnocchi for a twist. These varieties offer a slightly sweet taste that complements the sauce. You can choose store-bought gnocchi for quick meals. Homemade gnocchi takes time but can be a fun project.
Flavor Add-ins
Want to jazz up your dish? Add protein like chicken or shrimp to make it heartier. Sauté them before adding to the sauce for extra flavor. If you love spice, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. This adds a nice kick that balances the creamy sauce.
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
To store leftover creamy tomato basil gnocchi, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for up to three days. When reheating, use a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of cream or water to prevent sticking. Stir gently until it heats through. This way, you keep that creamy texture.
Freezing Options
If you want to freeze it, follow these steps. First, let the gnocchi cool completely. Then, place it in a freezer-safe container or bag. Remove as much air as possible before sealing. It can last for about two months. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat it gently in a skillet, adding a little cream or water as needed. This keeps the sauce from getting too thick. Enjoy the flavors all over again!
FAQs
How to make gnocchi from scratch?
To make gnocchi from scratch, you need:
- 2 pounds of potatoes
- 1 cup of all-purpose flour
- 1 egg
- Salt to taste
Start by boiling the potatoes until tender. Once cool, peel and mash them. Mix in the flour, egg, and salt to form a dough. Roll the dough into ropes and cut into small pieces. Press each piece with a fork to create ridges. Boil these in salted water until they float, which means they are done.
Can I substitute heavy cream?
Yes, you can substitute heavy cream. Here are some options:
- Half-and-half for a lighter sauce
- Coconut cream for a dairy-free option
- Cream cheese for a thicker texture
Each substitute changes the flavor and creaminess. Half-and-half will be lighter, while coconut cream adds a hint of sweetness. Cream cheese will make the sauce rich but may need more seasoning.
What to serve with creamy tomato basil gnocchi?
You can serve creamy tomato basil gnocchi with:
- A fresh green salad
- Garlic bread for a crunchy side
- Steamed vegetables like broccoli or green beans
- A glass of white wine, such as Pinot Grigio
These sides balance the rich sauce and enhance the meal. A light salad adds freshness, while garlic bread soaks up the sauce. Enjoy these pairings for a complete dining experience.
You now know how to make creamy tomato basil gnocchi. We covered the key ingredients like potato gnocchi and garlic. I shared step-by-step cooking instructions for the perfect sauce. Remember the tips on creaminess and flavor balance, too.
Don't hesitate to experiment with variations, like adding protein or veggies. Enjoy your dish hot and fresh! With these guidelines, you can create a tasty meal that impresses everyone. Happy cooking!
