Imagine a dish that’s creamy, comforting, and bursting with flavor—all made in one pot! In this blog post, I’ll guide you through a simple recipe for One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi that’s perfect for busy weeknights. With just a handful of ingredients, you can whip up a delightful meal that will impress your family and friends. Get ready to enjoy a bowl of happiness with minimal fuss!
Why I Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This one-pot recipe can be prepared in just 20 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich and Creamy: The addition of heavy cream creates a luscious sauce that perfectly coats the gnocchi.
- Flavorful Ingredients: With fresh basil and Italian herbs, each bite is packed with vibrant flavors that elevate the dish.
- Minimal Cleanup: Since it’s all cooked in one pot, cleanup is a breeze, allowing you to enjoy your meal without the hassle.
Ingredients
List of Ingredients
- Gnocchi (16 oz package)
- Olive oil (2 tablespoons)
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced)
- Crushed tomatoes (14 oz can)
- Vegetable broth (1 cup)
- Heavy cream (1 cup)
- Dried Italian herbs (1 teaspoon)
- Fresh basil leaves (1 cup, chopped)
- Salt and pepper
- Parmesan cheese (for serving)
One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi needs simple, fresh ingredients. Each item adds flavor and comfort. Gnocchi serves as the main star, bringing a soft and pillowy texture. Olive oil helps to sauté garlic, which gives a warm aroma.
Crushed tomatoes add a rich base. They mix well with vegetable broth, creating a savory sauce. Heavy cream brings a creamy richness that ties everything together. Dried Italian herbs add a burst of flavor, while fresh basil gives it a bright finish.
Salt and pepper season the dish. Finally, Parmesan cheese makes a perfect topping. It adds a salty kick and enhances the overall taste. Gathering these ingredients sets the stage for a delightful dish.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparatory Steps
First, let’s get our pot ready. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 4 minced cloves of garlic and sauté them for about 1-2 minutes. You want the garlic to be fragrant but not burnt.
Next, it’s time to add the flavor. Pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and 1 cup of vegetable broth. Give it a good stir. Make sure everything is mixed well and ready for the next step.
Cooking the Gnocchi
Now comes the fun part! Bring your mixture to a gentle simmer. Carefully add 1 package of gnocchi. Stir it gently to ensure the gnocchi is fully submerged in the sauce. Cover the pot and let it cook for about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the gnocchi floats to the top.
Once the gnocchi is cooked, lower the heat. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs, and 1 cup of chopped fresh basil. Mix everything well until it becomes creamy and heated through.
Final Touches
Now, let’s make it taste great! Season your dish with salt and pepper to your liking. Keep cooking for another 2-3 minutes. This will allow all those lovely flavors to meld together.
Once done, remove the pot from heat. Let it sit for a couple of minutes. This rest time helps the dish become even more delicious!
Tips & Tricks
Cooking Tips
To cook gnocchi well, start with a large pot. Use plenty of water and salt. Bring the water to a boil before adding the gnocchi. Cook until they float. This shows they are done.
When cooking garlic, avoid burning it. Sauté on medium heat for just 1-2 minutes. Stir often and watch closely. Burnt garlic can ruin your dish.
Presentation Suggestions
Serve your creamy tomato basil gnocchi in deep bowls. This helps keep the sauce in place. Top each bowl with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add a sprinkle of extra basil leaves for color. A drizzle of olive oil adds richness too.
Flavor Enhancements
If you want more creaminess, add extra heavy cream. You can also use cream cheese for a thicker texture.
Feel free to add more herbs or spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes can add heat. Try fresh herbs like thyme or parsley to boost flavor.
Pro Tips
- Use Fresh Basil: For the best flavor, use fresh basil leaves instead of dried. Add them at the end for a vibrant taste.
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Keep an eye on the gnocchi as they cook. They’re done when they float, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes.
- Adjust Creaminess: If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute with half-and-half for a creamy texture.
- Enhance with Cheese: For added flavor, mix in some shredded mozzarella or a sprinkle of feta cheese before serving.
Variations
Ingredient Substitutions
For a lighter option, you can use non-dairy cream. Almond milk or coconut cream works well. They add richness without dairy. Try unsweetened versions to keep flavors balanced.
If you need an alternative for vegetable broth, use chicken broth instead. You can also make your broth by boiling vegetables. This adds flavor and nutrition, making it a great swap.
Different Protein Additions
You can easily add protein to your gnocchi dish. Chicken or shrimp are both great options. Cook them in the pot first, then follow the recipe.
If you prefer a vegetarian option, try adding chickpeas or lentils. They boost protein and make the dish hearty. Tofu is another great choice; just sauté it with the garlic.
Seasonal Variations
This recipe is flexible for different seasons. In fall or winter, add roasted squash or kale. They bring warmth and color to the dish.
In summer, use fresh tomatoes instead of canned ones. They add a bright taste and freshness. Just chop them up and toss them in with the broth. Enjoy the taste of summer in your bowl!
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
To store your leftover creamy tomato basil gnocchi, let it cool first. Transfer it to an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Make sure to seal the container tightly. It will stay good in the fridge for up to three days.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to eat again, use the stovetop to reheat. Place the gnocchi in a pan over low heat. Stir gently to warm it through. Adding a splash of broth or cream can help keep it moist. Avoid the microwave if you want to keep the gnocchi from getting soggy.
Freezing Tips
Yes, you can freeze creamy gnocchi. To do this, let it cool completely. Then, portion it into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat gently on the stove, adding liquid as needed to regain creaminess.
FAQs
Common Questions
What is gnocchi made from?
Gnocchi is made from simple ingredients. It often includes potatoes, flour, and eggs. Some recipes skip eggs for a lighter texture. The mixture forms small dumplings that are soft and fluffy.
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. There’s no need to thaw it before cooking. Just add it to the pot with the sauce. It cooks in the same time as fresh gnocchi. This makes it a quick meal option.
Recipe Adjustments
How to make it vegan?
To make this dish vegan, swap heavy cream for coconut cream or cashew cream. You can also use vegetable broth. For cheese, try vegan Parmesan or skip it altogether. The dish will still be creamy and delicious.
Can I make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, you can use gluten-free gnocchi. These options are now available at many stores. Make sure all other ingredients, like broth and cream, are gluten-free too. This way, everyone can enjoy the dish.
Cooking Time Queries
How long does it take to cook gnocchi?
Cooking gnocchi takes about 5-7 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when it floats to the top. Floating means the dough is cooked through and ready to eat.
What if my gnocchi doesn’t float?
If your gnocchi doesn’t float, it may need more time. Let it simmer for a bit longer. If it’s still sinking, check if your water was boiling enough. A good boil helps cook the gnocchi properly.
This recipe is a simple way to make creamy gnocchi. You learned about the key ingredients, cooking steps, and ways to enhance flavor. Don’t forget the tips on storage and reheating to keep your dish fresh. I encourage you to try different variations, like adding proteins or seasonal veggies. Gnocchi can be a versatile meal that fits any occasion. Enjoy experimenting with flavors and making this dish your ow
One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Ingredients
- 16 oz gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 14 oz crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, thyme)
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- to taste salt
- to taste pepper
- for serving freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot or deep skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
- Add the crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth to the pot. Stir well to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the gnocchi. Stir to ensure all the gnocchi is submerged in the sauce.
- Cover the pot and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the top and is cooked through.
- Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream, dried Italian herbs, and chopped fresh basil. Mix well until creamy and heated through.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue to cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
- Remove from heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes before serving.
