Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi

Name: Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound potato gnocchi; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 1/4 cup heavy cream; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Classic Kitchen

I love making Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi as a cozy weekend treat. The rich, savory sauce combined with pillowy gnocchi creates a delightful dish that warms the soul. Every bite is bursting with the freshness of basil and the sweetness of ripe tomatoes, making it a perfect way to end the week. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to whip up, allowing me to spend more time enjoying this delicious meal with my family and less time in the kitchen. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you for trying this recipe!

Created by

Leonie Fairchild

Last updated on 2026-01-12T05:17:34.549Z

Making Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi has become a beloved ritual for me. One of the secrets I discovered is to use fresh basil, which really elevates the dish's flavor. Fresh herbs bring a vibrant taste that dried herbs simply can’t replicate. The gnocchi itself absorbs the sauce beautifully, creating a harmony of flavors in every bite.

Additionally, I often add a touch of cream to the sauce, which gives the meal a luxurious, velvety finish. It’s the small details that can transform an ordinary dinner into a restaurant-quality experience right from my own kitchen!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bursting with fresh basil flavor that brightens the dish
Pillowy gnocchi that soaks up the rich tomato sauce
Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for any weeknight
Classic Italian comfort food that satisfies the whole family

The Importance of Fresh Ingredients

Using fresh basil and ripe tomatoes elevates the flavors in this Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi. Fresh basil offers a vibrant, aromatic quality that dried herbs simply cannot match. When chopping the basil, aim for a rough chop to maximize its surface area, allowing for a more pronounced flavor. As you simmer the sauce, the aroma will fill your kitchen, making it an inviting space for your family to gather around the table.

Ripe, in-season tomatoes provide natural sweetness and acidity to the sauce. If you cannot find fresh tomatoes, opt for quality canned tomatoes that are packed at peak ripeness. Look for varieties that have minimal added ingredients. This small detail can significantly affect the flavor profile, ensuring your dish is as delicious as possible.

Cooking Gnocchi Like a Pro

Cooking gnocchi correctly is vital to achieving the perfect texture. Once the gnocchi begins to float, this indicates they are cooked and ready to be removed from the pot. Overcooking can lead to a mushy texture, so be attentive! I recommend preparing your sauce while the water heats, ensuring that the gnocchi can be added right to the sauce without delay for optimal flavor absorption.

If you're making this dish for a crowd, consider doubling the gnocchi without overloading a single pot. Instead, cook in batches to maintain an even texture and prevent sticking. Keeping the water at a rolling boil will help ensure the gnocchi remains light and fluffy.

Customizing Your Gnocchi Dish

Feel free to make this recipe your own! You can add seasonal vegetables such as spinach or zucchini to the sauce for extra texture and nutrition. Simply sauté them with the garlic before adding the crushed tomatoes; this will allow their flavors to meld beautifully with the sauce. For those looking for a protein boost, consider incorporating grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp for a heartier meal.

If you're looking for a vegan alternative, swap the heavy cream for coconut cream or a cashew-based cream to maintain a similar richness. Additionally, sprinkle nutritional yeast on top instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. These variations keep the dish nutritive while catering to various dietary needs.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi

For the Gnocchi

1 pound potato gnocchi
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
1/4 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Instructions

Steps to Make Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the top. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Careful not to burn it!

Mix Everything Together

Add the crushed tomatoes to the skillet and simmer for about 5 minutes. Stir in the chopped basil, heavy cream, and cooked gnocchi. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Cook for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.

Serve

Serve the gnocchi hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil if desired.

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes or quality canned tomatoes. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, as fresh ingredients can vary in strength.

Storage and Reheating Tips

To store your Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi, let it cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheating is simple; just add a splash of water or olive oil to a skillet over low heat, and stir gently until warmed through. This prevents the gnocchi from becoming too dry or chewy.

If you want to make the dish ahead of time, prepare the sauce and cook the gnocchi separately. Combine them just before serving to keep the gnocchi’s texture intact. You can also freeze the sauce in individual portions, making it easy to whip up a quick meal on another day.

Pairing Suggestions

This gnocchi dish pairs perfectly with a simple side salad. A mix of arugula with a lemon vinaigrette adds a refreshing counterpoint to the rich sauce. You might also consider grilled vegetables or garlic bread to soak up the delicious tomato sauce — both are simple sides that complement the gnocchi beautifully.

For a beverage, a light white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, would work well, balancing the flavors of the dish. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, a sparkling Italian soda adds a festive touch without overshadowing the meal.

Adjusting for Dietary Needs

If you're cooking for those with gluten sensitivities, opt for gluten-free gnocchi, which is increasingly available at grocery stores. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so check the package instructions closely for best results.

For a low-carb spin on this dish, consider zucchini noodles (zoodles) instead of gnocchi. Prepare the tomato sauce as directed, and toss it with the zoodles just before serving for a light, refreshing alternative that still captures the essence of the original recipe.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi is a great time-saver and will work perfectly in this recipe.

→ What can I substitute for heavy cream?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream substitute if you prefer a lighter dish.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water or olive oil.

→ Can I freeze the gnocchi dish?

It’s best to freeze the gnocchi before cooking. Once cooked, the texture may change when thawed.