Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi

There’s something truly magical about a comforting bowl of gnocchi, enveloped in a rich, creamy tomato sauce. This dish is not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate, a nostalgic reminder of evenings spent in the kitchen with loved ones. I vividly remember the first time I tried gnocchi. It was during a family gathering at my grandmother’s house, where the air was filled with the aroma of simmering tomatoes and fresh basil. The laughter and chatter around the dinner table were accompanied by the comforting scent of good food, creating a lasting memory that would inspire my culinary adventures in years to come. Little did I know that I would one day be recreating that same comfort in my own kitchen with this creamy tomato basil gnocchi recipe.

Discover the warmth and comfort of creamy tomato basil gnocchi, a dish that brings together pillowy dumplings and a rich, velvety tomato sauce infused with garlic and fresh basil. Perfect for both busy weeknights and special gatherings, this easy-to-follow recipe invites you to recreate cherished memories while creating new ones. With just a few simple ingredients, you can enjoy a delightful meal that’s satisfying and sophisticated. Join me on this cozy culinary adventure!

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Ingredients

1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

2 tablespoons olive oil

3 cloves garlic, minced

1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (with juices)

1 cup heavy cream

1 teaspoon dried basil

½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Salt and pepper to taste

1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

½ cup grated Parmesan cheese

Fresh basil leaves 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 to the top, indicating they are done. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.

Add Tomatoes: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices. Stir in the dried basil and red pepper flakes (if using). Bring the mixture to a simmer, allowing the flavors to meld for about 5 minutes.

Make it Creamy: Reduce the heat to low and slowly whisk in the heavy cream until well combined. Let it cook for another 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.

Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Gently toss to coat the gnocchi evenly with the sauce.

Add Fresh Basil and Cheese: Remove from heat and fold in the chopped fresh basil and half of the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve: Transfer the creamy tomato basil gnocchi to serving plates. Top with the remaining Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves for garnish. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Prep Time, Total Time, Servings: 10 minutes | 25 minutes | 4 servings