Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi

Name: Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound potato gnocchi; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

I love spending my Sunday afternoons preparing this delightful Tomato Basil Gnocchi. The combination of the tender gnocchi soaked in a rich tomato sauce, infused with fresh basil, brings a sense of comfort and warmth to every bite. Not only is this dish easy to whip up, but the vibrant flavors always leave my family eagerly asking for seconds. On weekends, when I have a bit more time to enjoy cooking, this recipe becomes my go-to choice that never fails to impress.

Created by

Lillian Hayes

Last updated on 2026-01-13T04:31:07.079Z

Making Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi has become a cherished tradition in my kitchen. I discovered that using fresh basil right from my garden elevates the dish, providing a burst of flavor that dried herbs simply can't match. The process of cooking the gnocchi until they float gives me a satisfying sense of accomplishment each time.

One essential tip I've learned is to sauté the garlic briefly before adding the tomatoes, as it brings out the sweetness and creates a wonderful aroma that fills my home. This small step transforms the sauce into something truly special and memorable.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh basil adds a fragrant, herbaceous note that brightens the dish
Soft and pillowy gnocchi that soak up the sauce perfectly
A comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a Sunday afternoon

      

Elevating Your Gnocchi Experience

To truly elevate your Tomato Basil Gnocchi, consider using freshly made gnocchi. While store-bought options are convenient, the texture of homemade gnocchi is unparalleled. If you're feeling adventurous, try incorporating a hint of ricotta or spinach into your gnocchi dough for added flavor and nutrition. The key is to work with your dough just enough to integrate ingredients without overworking it, ensuring a soft and pillowy result.

Another fantastic way to boost the flavor of your dish is by using different types of tomatoes. Heirloom tomatoes, for instance, will add a deeper sweetness compared to regular cherry tomatoes. If you're using canned tomatoes instead, opt for San Marzano for a rich and authentic taste. Be sure to let them simmer down until they break down slightly and create that luscious sauce that clings to the gnocchi.

Perfecting Your Sauce

When you're preparing the sauce, patience is key. Letting the cherry tomatoes cook until they're thoroughly soft, about 5-7 minutes, brings out their natural sugars and enhances the overall flavor of the dish. Stirring frequently ensures they cook evenly and don’t stick to the pan. You want your sauce to be glossy and slightly thickened before combining it with the gnocchi.

Don’t be afraid to adjust your seasoning as you cook. Taste your sauce after adding the basil and adjust the salt and pepper accordingly. For a bit more depth, a pinch of red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes beautifully. The basil should be added towards the end to keep its vibrant green color and fresh taste.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create a delicious Sunday meal.

Gnocchi Ingredients

1 pound potato gnocchi
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
3 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients will come together to create a dish that's full of flavor and love.

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create an unforgettable meal.

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of boiling salted water, add the gnocchi. Cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute. Add the cherry tomatoes and cook until they soften, about 5 minutes.

Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the tomato mixture. Gently toss to coat the gnocchi in the sauce. Stir in the chopped basil, and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve

Serve hot, garnished with extra basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi!

Now that you’ve created this delightful dish, it’s time to dig in!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick of flavor, consider adding a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftover Tomato Basil Gnocchi, great news! This dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply place it in an airtight container and refrigerate. When reheating, I recommend using a skillet on medium heat to preserve the texture of the gnocchi. Just add a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce, cover, and warm it through until heated evenly.

For longer storage, consider freezing the gnocchi before they’re cooked. Flash freeze on a baking sheet for about an hour and then transfer to a freezer-safe bag. This prevents them from sticking together. When ready to use, cook directly from frozen in boiling salted water; it may take an extra minute or two.

Serving Suggestions

To enhance your presentation, serve your Tomato Basil Gnocchi in a shallow bowl with a drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil on top. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and some extra basil leaves can take your dish to the next level, both visually and flavor-wise. This dish adapts beautifully to different side options, such as a light arugula salad with lemon dressing, which complements the richness of the sauce.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding protein to your gnocchi. Grilled chicken or sautéed shrimp pair wonderfully with this dish. Simply cook the protein separately and mix it in just before serving to keep all flavors intact. This not only makes the dish heartier but also enriches the flavor profile, especially when the protein soaks up some of that savory tomato sauce.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.

→ What can I substitute for fresh basil?

You can use dried basil, but fresh basil provides a much brighter flavor.

→ How can I make it vegetarian?

This recipe is already vegetarian! You can add vegetables like spinach or zucchini for more nutrition.

→ Can I prepare this dish ahead of time?

While the gnocchi are best fresh, you can prepare the sauce in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.