Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi

Name: Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 large egg; 1 cup mashed potatoes; Salt to taste; 4 ripe tomatoes, diced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love making Sunday evenings special with a comforting dish like Tomato Basil Gnocchi. The vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil come together beautifully in this dish. Every bite transports me to an Italian piazza, especially when I use my homemade gnocchi recipe. It’s a quick and satisfying meal that brings the family together around the table, and I can’t help but feel accomplished with each plush, pillowy bite. Trust me; you’ll want to add this one to your weekly menu!

Created by

Freya Cooper

Last updated on 2026-01-13T02:16:10.331Z

When I made this Tomato Basil Gnocchi for the first time, my kitchen filled with irresistible aromas that made the whole family gather around. Using ripe, juicy tomatoes and fresh basil, I created a sauce that not only complements the gnocchi but also enhances it. I sauté the tomatoes just enough to release their juices, creating a light yet flavorful sauce. It was a hit!

One crucial tip I learned is to use starchy potatoes for the gnocchi—this ensures they’re fluffy and tender. If you prepared them from scratch, you’ll really appreciate how the textures come together. Cooking the gnocchi until they float guarantees you a perfectly cooked dish, every time.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        The fresh burst of flavor from tomatoes and basil enhances each bite.
Homemade gnocchi gives a comforting, fluffy texture.
It's a quick meal that perfectly balances indulgence with lightness.

      

Understanding Gnocchi Texture

The texture of gnocchi is crucial for this dish, as it contributes significantly to the overall eating experience. When mixing your ingredients, ensure the mashed potatoes are smooth and free of lumps. Using a ricer or food mill helps achieve an ideal consistency. The dough should feel soft yet slightly tacky; if it seems too wet, add a little more flour—but be cautious, as adding too much can yield dense gnocchi.

After cutting the gnocchi pieces, rolling them over a fork helps create ridges that hold onto the sauce beautifully. When formed correctly, these ridges will not only enhance the gnocchi's appearance but also improve its ability to cling to the flavors of your sauce. Remember to test one piece by cooking it before boiling the whole batch; this ensures your dough is perfect.

Perfecting the Tomato-Basil Sauce

For the sauce, using ripe, in-season tomatoes will make a world of difference. Vine-ripened tomatoes provide ample sweetness and natural acidity, enhancing the overall flavor. If your tomatoes aren't at their peak, consider using canned San Marzano tomatoes instead, which are known for their rich taste and low acidity, making them a fantastic alternative. Just remember to let them cook down until they’re soft and flavorful.

Garlic adds an aromatic depth that permeates the dish. Sauté it gently over medium heat; you want it fragrant, not browned, which can introduce bitterness. After adding the tomatoes, let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens and begins to shimmer. The addition of fresh basil at the end preserves the vibrant color and aromatic qualities of the herb, ensuring a fresh burst of flavor.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients needed to whip up this delicious dish:

Ingredients for Gnocchi

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 large egg
1 cup mashed potatoes
Salt to taste

Ingredients for the Sauce

4 ripe tomatoes, diced
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving

Having fresh ingredients ensures the best flavor for this dish.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Tomato Basil Gnocchi:

Prepare the Gnocchi

In a mixing bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, and egg until a soft dough forms. Roll the dough into ropes, approximately 1-inch thick, and cut into 1-inch pieces. Use a fork to create ridges on each piece.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi until they float, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer them to a plate.

Make the Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and cook until fragrant. Next, add the diced tomatoes and cook until they break down, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in the fresh basil, and seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the sauce and toss gently to coat. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your dish with some extra basil leaves on top!

Pro Tips

Always use fresh ingredients for the best flavor, and don’t overcook the gnocchi to keep them light and fluffy.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the gnocchi ahead of time, which is perfect for busy weeknights. Once formed, lay them out on a floured baking sheet in a single layer and freeze. Once solid, transfer them to a freezer bag. They can be cooked from frozen; just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time.

The sauce can also be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to three days or frozen for a month. When ready to serve, gently reheat it on the stove over low heat to retain its flavor without compromising the texture of the tomatoes.

Serving Suggestions

Pairing your Tomato Basil Gnocchi with a simple mixed green salad dressed in a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish. You can also serve it alongside crusty garlic bread to mop up the delicious sauce, providing a delightful textural contrast.

For a variation, consider adding grilled vegetables or sautéed spinach to the gnocchi for extra nutrition and color. These additions not only enhance the dish's appeal but also make it more substantial for a hearty meal. Top with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil for an elevated finish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, you can use store-bought gnocchi if you’re short on time, just follow the package instructions for cooking.

→ What other herbs can I add to the sauce?

You can experiment by adding parsley or oregano for an extra layer of flavor.

→ How do I store leftover gnocchi?

You can store the cooked gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

→ Can I freeze the gnocchi?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked gnocchi. Just freeze them on a baking sheet, then transfer to a freezer bag once solid.