Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi

Name: Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 400g gnocchi; 1 can (400g) diced tomatoes; 1 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi for a comforting weeknight dinner. The combination of creamy sauce, fresh basil, and soft gnocchi creates a delightful dish that warms the soul. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal cooking time, I can whip up this meal in no time. It's not only satisfying but also bursting with flavor. I've shared this recipe with friends, and it quickly became a favorite at gatherings. Let me show you how easy it is to bring this dish to life in your kitchen!

Created by

Sabrina Holt

Last updated on 2026-01-15T13:55:19.338Z

When I first tried my hand at making Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi, I was amazed at how quickly everything came together. The key is to use quality canned tomatoes for the sauce, which adds so much depth and flavor without requiring hours of simmering. I love adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little warmth; it really elevates the dish!

One trip to the farmer's market introduced me to the brightest basil, and since then, I've included it in this recipe. The freshness of the basil combined with the creamy sauce creates a mouthwatering contrast that never disappoints. Trust me, you won't want to skip the basil—it truly makes this dish sing!

        Reasons You'll Love This Recipe
        The rich creaminess perfectly complements the soft gnocchi.
Fresh basil adds a vibrant flavor that brightens the dish.
It's a quick, satisfying meal that requires minimal prep time.

      

Perfecting the Gnocchi

Cooking gnocchi can be a breeze if you keep a few key tips in mind. When adding gnocchi to boiling water, make sure the pot is large enough to prevent them from sticking together as they cook. Watch for the gnocchi to float to the surface; this is a reliable indicator that they are ready. Once they have floated, give them an additional 30 seconds in the water before draining to ensure they are pillowy soft.

If you're looking to make your own gnocchi from scratch, consider using a mix of potatoes and all-purpose flour. The dough should be just sticky enough to hold together without leaving residue on your hands. Roll the dough into ropes about the thickness of your finger, then cut into pieces and use the tines of a fork to create an indent, which helps hold onto the sauce later.

Sauce Secrets

The creamy tomato sauce is the star of this dish, and using high-quality canned tomatoes makes a noticeable difference. Look for tomatoes that are labeled San Marzano for their natural sweetness and richer flavor. Letting the sauce simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully—keep the heat on medium-low to achieve that glossy, creamy consistency without it separating or burning.

To enhance the basil flavor further, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes during the cooking process for a subtle kick. Adding fresh basil at the end of the cooking time retains its vibrant color and freshness, making your dish not only more flavorful but also visually appealing.

Serving and Storing

When serving, don’t shy away from garnishing with plenty of grated Parmesan and extra fresh basil on top. The cheese adds an extra layer of creaminess and saltiness that pairs perfectly with the sauce, while the basil keeps the dish fresh and inviting. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving can elevate the dish further, adding a lovely finish.

If you have leftovers, store the gnocchi and sauce separately to maintain their textures. The gnocchi can be kept in an airtight container in the fridge for 3–4 days, while the sauce can last up to a week. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or water to loosen the sauce and restore its creamy texture.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

400g gnocchi
1 can (400g) diced tomatoes
1 cup heavy cream
1/2 cup fresh basil, chopped
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan for serving

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. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet over medium heat, add olive oil. Once hot, sauté the minced garlic until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the diced tomatoes and cook for 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Stir in the heavy cream and let simmer for another 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper.

Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce mixture, gently tossing them to coat with the creamy sauce. Fold in the fresh basil and cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Serve

Serve the gnocchi hot, topped with grated Parmesan and extra basil if desired.

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, consider adding roasted red peppers or spinach to the sauce. You can also use a blend of cheeses in place of Parmesan for a different taste experience.

Ingredient Substitutions

If you prefer a lighter version of this dish, consider using half-and-half or evaporated milk in place of heavy cream. While this won't yield the same truly creamy texture, it will still provide a satisfying richness. You can also experiment with dairy-free options, like coconut cream or cashew cream, which can work wonderfully, especially if you're looking for vegan substitutes.

For a burst of additional flavors, try adding sautéed vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers into the sauce. These not only add nutritional value but also bring a variety of colors and textures to the dish, making it visually appealing.

Variations to Explore

For those who enjoy a bit of protein in their meals, this gnocchi dish can be easily customized by adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or sausage. Simply sauté your choice of protein in the same skillet before adding the garlic, giving it time to develop flavor before adding the tomatoes.

You might also consider making a pesto variation by replacing the tomato and cream with basil pesto. The creamy texture can be achieved using cashew cream or a dairy-free alternative, creating a completely different but equally delicious dish.

Troubleshooting Tips

If your sauce is too thick, thin it out with a little bit of reserved pasta water or additional cream, stirring it in gradually until you reach the desired consistency. It’s important to remember that the thickness can vary depending on how long it has simmered, so adjust according to your preference.

In case your gnocchi becomes mushy, it could be due to overcooking. Always watch them closely while boiling, and be sure to test one before draining. For future cooking, try to work with smaller batches to ensure proper cooking without overcrowding.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi saves time and is just as delicious.

→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this recipe is vegetarian as is. You can add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream.

→ Is it possible to freeze this dish?

It's best to eat it fresh, but you can freeze the sauce separately. Just reheat before serving with freshly cooked gnocchi.