30-Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe

Dreamy Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe

Comfort meets elegance in this delectable 30-minute creamy tomato gnocchi with burrata that promises to tantalize your taste buds.

Soft, pillowy gnocchi swims in a rich, velvety tomato sauce that whispers of home-cooked warmth.

creamy burrata adds a luxurious touch, melting gently into the vibrant sauce and creating a harmonious blend of flavors.

Each bite tells a story of simplicity and indulgence, transforming ordinary weeknight dinner into a gourmet experience.

The recipe comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings when you crave something extraordinary.

Fresh herbs and a sprinkle of parmesan cheese elevate this dish from good to unforgettable.

Prepare to fall in love with this irresistible Italian-inspired creation that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Gnocchi with Burrata – Different Styles to Try

  • Vegan Gnocchi Delight: Replace burrata with cashew cream and use plant-based heavy cream alternative for a dairy-free version.
  • Gluten-Free Gnocchi Bowl: Swap traditional gnocchi with sweet potato or cauliflower gnocchi to create a celiac-friendly meal.
  • Spicy Mediterranean Remix: Add kalamata olives, swap basil for oregano, and include crumbled feta instead of burrata for a Greek-inspired transformation.
  • Protein-Packed Variation: Incorporate cooked chicken or white beans to increase protein content while maintaining the creamy tomato sauce profile.

Serving Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Hot

  • Rustic Italian Feast: Serve the gnocchi on large ceramic plates to highlight the creamy burrata and vibrant tomato sauce.
  • Wine Pairing Paradise: Select a crisp Italian white like Pinot Grigio or a light Chianti to complement the rich, creamy texture.
  • Fresh Green Accent: Sprinkle chopped fresh basil or arugula on top for added color, brightness, and herbal freshness that cuts through the creaminess.
  • Bread Companion: Serve with crusty sourdough or garlic bread to soak up the delicious tomato cream sauce and add delightful crunch.

Storage for Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata

  • Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Keep burrata separate to maintain its creamy texture.
  • Transfer cooled gnocchi and sauce to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for maximum 2 weeks. Avoid freezing burrata as it will lose its delicate consistency.
  • Warm gnocchi in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of pasta water or cream to restore moisture. Stir gently to prevent sticking.
  • Reheat in short 30-second intervals, stirring between each to distribute heat evenly. Add a touch of cream to prevent dryness.

FAQs

  • Can I use fresh or canned tomatoes?

You can use both fresh or canned whole peeled tomatoes. Fresh tomatoes work best during summer when they’re ripe, while canned tomatoes provide consistent flavor year-round.

  • Is burrata necessary for this recipe?

While burrata adds a luxurious creaminess, you can substitute with fresh mozzarella or skip the cheese if needed. The sauce will still be delicious.

  • How spicy are the red pepper flakes?

Red pepper flakes add a mild heat. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with a pinch and adjust to taste. You can always add more, but can’t remove once mixed in.

Creamy Tomato Gnocchi – Why It’s a Dinner Winner

  • Whip up a restaurant-worthy meal in just a few simple steps with minimal cooking skills required.
  • Creamy tomato sauce with soft gnocchi creates an irresistible dish that pleases both kids and adults at the dinner table.
  • Luxurious burrata cheese adds a professional restaurant-style finish without complicated preparation techniques.
  • Minimal cleanup and straightforward ingredients make this recipe perfect for busy weeknight dinners or spontaneous cooking adventures.

Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata

Gnocchi Base:
  • Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy potato dumplings that serve as the hearty foundation of this pasta dish.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavor and helps season the cooking water.
Sauce Ingredients:
  • Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes that create a rich, jammy base for the creamy sauce.
  • Garlic: Crushed garlic that provides a deep, aromatic flavor to the sauce.
  • Red Pepper Flakes: Adds a subtle heat and warmth to the dish.
  • Black Pepper: Brings a mild spiciness and depth to the sauce.
  • Heavy Cream: Creates a luxurious, smooth texture for the tomato sauce.
Finishing Ingredients:
  • Basil: Fresh herb that adds a bright, aromatic freshness to the final dish.
  • Burrata: Creamy, soft cheese that provides a rich and indulgent topping.
  • Olive Oil: Used to sautĂ© garlic and create a smooth sauce base.

Gear for Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Success

  • Large Pot: Essential for boiling gnocchi with plenty of salted water.
  • Wooden Spoon: Perfect for stirring sauce and preventing sticking.
  • Sharp Knife: Needed for preparing garlic and chopping fresh basil.
  • Cutting Board: Provides safe surface for ingredient preparation.
  • Measuring Cups: Helps measure cream and reserve pasta water accurately.
  • Colander: Drains gnocchi after cooking.
  • Skillet or SautĂ© Pan: Ideal for creating creamy tomato sauce and cooking ingredients.

Steps for Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Magic

Step 1: Prepare Boiling Liquid

Fill a spacious pot with water and generously sprinkle salt.

Bring the water to a rolling boil, creating the perfect environment for cooking gnocchi.

Step 2: Craft Aromatic Base

In a skillet, warm olive oil over gentle heat.

Add minced garlic and sauté until it releases its delightful fragrance, about 2 minutes.

Step 3: Develop Tomato Essence

Introduce whole or crushed tomatoes to the skillet.

Allow them to simmer and transform, cooking for 10-12 minutes until they become wonderfully jammy.

Enhance with red pepper flakes, salt, and freshly ground black pepper.

Step 4: Introduce Creamy Texture

Lower the heat and gently pour heavy cream into the tomato mixture.

Stir carefully to create a smooth, luxurious sauce.

Step 5: Cook Gnocchi

Carefully drop gnocchi into the boiling water.

Cook until they float to the surface and reach a perfect al dente texture.

Before draining, carefully set aside 1/2 cup of pasta water.

Step 6: Combine and Finish

Merge the cooked gnocchi with the tomato cream sauce, using reserved pasta water to achieve the ideal consistency.

Tear fresh basil leaves and scatter over the dish.

Crown the creation with creamy burrata pieces, allowing them to melt slightly into the warm gnocchi.

Pro Insights for Creamy Tomato Gnocchi

  • Cook garlic slowly over medium-low heat to release sweet, mellow flavors without burning.
  • Simmer tomatoes patiently until they become thick and jammy for intense, concentrated flavor.
  • Save pasta water to help sauce cling perfectly to gnocchi and create silky, smooth texture.
  • Add fresh burrata at the very end to preserve its creamy, delicate texture and prevent melting.
  • Adjust red pepper flakes based on heat preference, starting with a small amount and tasting as you go.
Print
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30-Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe

30-Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe


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4.6 from 16 reviews

  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 1x

Description

Homemade 30 minute creamy tomato gnocchi with burrata delivers Italian comfort in one skillet. Quick weeknight dinner combines pan-roasted gnocchi, rich marinara, and creamy cheese for a memorable meal you can savor.


Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

  • 2 16-ounces (907 grams) potato gnocchi
  • 2 4-ounces (113 grams) fresh burrata cheese
  • 2 pints (680 grams) cherry tomatoes
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) fresh basil leaves, sliced or torn

Seasoning and Spices:

  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

Oil, Cream, and Aromatics:

  • 1/4 cup (60 milliliters) extra-virgin olive oil
  • 68 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly crushed
  • 1/2 cup (120 milliliters) heavy cream

Instructions

  1. Fill a generously sized pot with water, add a handful of salt, and bring to a rolling boil for preparing the gnocchi.
  2. Warm olive oil in a skillet over gentle heat, then introduce minced garlic and sauté for approximately 2 minutes until aromatic and lightly golden.
  3. Incorporate whole tomatoes into the skillet, allowing them to simmer and break down for 10-12 minutes until they transform into a thick, concentrated sauce. Sprinkle red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly ground black pepper to enhance the flavor profile.
  4. Lower the heat to a gentle medium-low and gently fold heavy cream into the tomato mixture, creating a luxurious and velvety sauce.
  5. Carefully drop gnocchi into the boiling water and cook until they float to the surface, indicating they are perfectly al dente. Before draining, carefully extract and reserve 1/2 cup of the starchy cooking liquid.
  6. Transfer the cooked gnocchi into the tomato cream sauce, using the reserved pasta water to help bind and thicken the sauce. Toss thoroughly to ensure even coating. Finish by scattering fresh basil leaves and crowning the dish with soft, creamy burrata pieces.

Notes

  • Choose high-quality gnocchi to ensure a perfect texture and prevent mushiness during cooking.
  • Crush garlic gently to release maximum flavor without burning, creating a rich aromatic base for the sauce.
  • Use ripe, fresh tomatoes or high-quality canned tomatoes for the most intense and vibrant sauce.
  • Keep pasta water as a secret weapon to adjust sauce consistency and help ingredients bind together smoothly.
  • Tear fresh basil leaves right before serving to maintain their bright green color and maximize herb aromatics.
  • Consider using gluten-free gnocchi for a celiac-friendly version without compromising taste.
  • Add protein like shredded rotisserie chicken or crispy pancetta for extra depth and nutrition.
  • Swap burrata with fresh mozzarella if burrata is unavailable or too expensive.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Dinner, Lunch, Snacks
  • Method: Boiling
  • Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 4
  • Calories: 575
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 600 mg
  • Fat: 34 g
  • Saturated Fat: 15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 52 g
  • Fiber: 2 g
  • Protein: 16 g
  • Cholesterol: 70 mg
Clara Thompson

Clara Thompson

Recipe Developer & Food Educator

Expertise

Plant-based and vegetarian recipe development, Nutritional analysis and meal planning, Culinary education and workshop facilitation, Content writing with a focus on healthy living​

Education

Diploma in Culinary Arts, Mt. San Jacinto College, CA
Focus: Comprehensive culinary training with an emphasis on sustainable cooking practices.

Certificate in Nutrition and Healthy Living, Cornell University (Online Program)
Focus: Understanding the principles of nutrition to create balanced and health-conscious recipes.


Clara lives where fresh ideas and fresh ingredients meet. She pairs her culinary know-how with her passion for healthy, planet-friendly cooking.
For Clara, good food should taste great, nourish your body, and feel easy to make. Her recipes highlight whole foods, colorful produce, and a deep respect for seasonal eating.

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