Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe

If you’re craving something cozy, comforting, and downright delicious, you’ve just hit the jackpot with this Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe. I absolutely love how this dish combines pillowy gnocchi with a rich, creamy tomato sauce that’s bursting with flavor, and I can’t wait to walk you through each step so you nail it perfectly every time.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

The ingredients in this Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe are simple yet perfectly balanced. Using fresh gnocchi and juicy cherry tomatoes really makes the sauce pop, and a few key herbs give it that restaurant-quality flavor at home.

• Oil: Just a tablespoon of oil helps soften the onions without overpowering the flavors.
• Red onion: Diced small for sweetness that builds the sauce’s flavor base.
• Cherry tomatoes: Halved, they break down beautifully into the creamy sauce.
• Garlic cloves: Minced fresh garlic gives that just-right aromatic kick.
• Tomato paste: Adds a rich depth and thickens the sauce.
• Water or vegetable broth: Your choice depending on whether you want a more neutral or savory base.
• Lighter cream cheese: The secret to the creamy texture without too much heaviness.
• Dried oregano: Classic herb that livens up the tomato base.
• Italian seasoning: A blend that gives a well-rounded, herby flavor.
• Thyme: Adds subtle earthiness to round out the sauce.
• Fresh gnocchi: The star of the dish – soft and pillowy, it soaks up the sauce beautifully.
• Mozzarella: Thinly sliced to melt over the top and create that irresistible cheesy crust.
• Salt and pepper: To taste – seasoning is everything!
• Fresh basil: Sliced thinly and sprinkled over the finished dish for that bright, fresh finish.

Variations

I love how adaptable this Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe is. Over time, I’ve played around with some variations that really make the dish your own – don’t hesitate to get creative!

• Make it vegan: I swapped the cream cheese for cashew cream and used vegan mozzarella, and honestly, it’s still super creamy and just as satisfying.
• Add protein: Grilled chicken or crispy pancetta stirred in makes it a heartier meal when I want something more filling.
• Spice it up: A pinch of red pepper flakes adds a nice warming heat that my husband and I love.
• Seasonal veggies: I sometimes toss in baby spinach or zucchini for extra greens, which works wonderfully.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating your oil in a skillet over low-medium heat. Add the diced red onion and gently sauté for 5-6 minutes until soft and sweet, but not browned. This slow cooking is key because you want those onions to build a mellow base flavor. Then toss in the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes, stirring to combine.

Step 2: Build the Sauce

Next, stir in your dried oregano, Italian seasoning, thyme, and tomato paste. These herbs are what really make the sauce sing, so don’t skip them! Pour in your water or vegetable broth to loosen the sauce. Let everything simmer gently for 7-8 minutes. You’ll want those cherry tomatoes to soften and start breaking down – press them lightly with the back of your spoon to help create a thick, saucy consistency.

Step 3: Add Cream Cheese & Gnocchi

Now for the creamy magic. Stir in the lighter cream cheese and fresh gnocchi. Keep stirring until the cream cheese melts smoothly into the sauce and the gnocchi gets fully coated, which usually takes about 2 minutes. You’ll notice the sauce become luscious and velvety, clinging beautifully to each pillowy gnocchi piece.

Step 4: Finish with Mozzarella & Bake

Season the dish with salt and pepper to your taste. Then either layer thin slices of mozzarella directly over the skillet or transfer everything to an oven-safe dish. Pop it under the grill for just 5 minutes, until the mozzarella melts and the top layer of gnocchi crisps up a little. Trust me, that crisp cheesy top is a game-changer.

Step 5: Garnish & Serve

Scatter thinly sliced fresh basil over the dish right before serving. The fresh basil adds a burst of herby brightness that balances the creamy tomato sauce perfectly. And voilà – you’re ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe

Garnishes

I always garnish with fresh basil because it adds that lovely pop of color and freshness that cuts through the richness. Sometimes, a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan elevates the cheesy factor even more. If you like a little crunch, toasted pine nuts on top make a beautiful finishing touch.

Side Dishes

On nights when I make this, I often serve a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette always works well, perfect for mopping up the extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I sometimes bake the dish in individual ramekins and garnish each with a mini basil sprig – it looks so pretty on the table and feels extra fancy. Another fun twist is swirling in some pesto just before serving, which adds a vibrant color and herby punch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Before putting it away, I let it cool completely to keep the texture right. I’ve found that the sauce thickens overnight, but that’s easy to fix when reheating.

Freezing

Freezing this dish is doable, but since gnocchi can get a bit soft when thawed, I prefer to freeze the sauce separately if I’m planning ahead. Just thaw the sauce in the fridge and cook fresh gnocchi when ready to serve. If you do freeze the whole dish, be gentle during reheating.

Reheating

I reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce and keep it creamy. The microwave works too, but go in short bursts to avoid drying it out.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

I still remember the first time I made this Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe – the way the sauce came together so smoothly and the cheesy crust on top had me hooked right away. It’s become one of those go-to dishes I make when I want something indulgent but not complicated. I hope you give it a try and enjoy it as much as my family and I do – it’s the kind of recipe you want to share around the table with friends. Happy cooking!

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