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Creamy Gnocchi with Tomato Cream Sauce

creamy gnocchi with tomato cream sauce - featured image

A quick and easy homemade recipe featuring pillowy potato gnocchi tossed in a rich, tangy tomato cream sauce, perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 pound (450 g) potato gnocchi
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400 g) crushed tomatoes
  • ½ cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • A handful fresh basil leaves, chopped
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional, a pinch)

Instructions

  1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil (about 4 quarts / 3.8 liters of water with a generous pinch of salt).
  2. Cook the gnocchi in batches to avoid crowding. When they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes), use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a bowl and set aside.
  3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned.
  4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes. Stir and bring to a gentle simmer. Let cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
  5. Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Mix gently and cook for another 2-3 minutes until the sauce is creamy and smooth.
  6. Add grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until melted and fully incorporated.
  7. Season the sauce with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  8. Toss the cooked gnocchi into the sauce. Gently mix to coat every piece. Heat together for 1-2 minutes so the gnocchi soak up the flavors.
  9. Remove from heat and fold in fresh basil.
  10. Serve immediately, optionally garnished with extra Parmesan and a drizzle of olive oil.

Notes

Do not overcook gnocchi; they are done when they float to the surface. Stir sauce gently after adding cream to keep it silky. Grate Parmesan fresh for best melt and flavor. For dairy-free, substitute heavy cream with coconut cream and Parmesan with nutritional yeast.

Nutrition

Keywords: gnocchi, tomato cream sauce, creamy gnocchi, easy dinner, Italian recipe, quick pasta, comfort food