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This Gnocchi with Tomato Cream Sauce recipe is the perfect weeknight comfort dish — creamy, flavorful, and quick to make in just 30 minutes.
What sets it apart is the harmonious blend of fire-roasted tomatoes and heavy cream, creating a silky, tangy sauce that clings beautifully to the pillowy gnocchi.
The garlic-infused butter and herbs add rich depth, while a touch of red pepper brings subtle heat.
Beyond its indulgent taste, this dish offers nutritional highlights. It’s a moderate-carb, fiber-rich meal with plant-based ingredients (when using vegetarian gnocchi and broth alternatives).
The tomato base adds antioxidants like lycopene, while olive oil and cream provide healthy fats in moderation. It’s also protein-friendly when paired with grilled chicken, shrimp, or legumes.
This recipe is ideal for everyday cooking thanks to its simplicity, fast prep, and minimal cleanup.
It also reheats well, making it a smart choice for meal-prepping or make-ahead lunches.
Must-Have Tools for Perfect Results
1. All-Clad Stainless Steel Skillet
A high-quality stainless steel skillet is essential for sautéing the garlic, browning the gnocchi, and simmering the sauce evenly.
This pan’s heat retention ensures a golden sear and well-developed flavors. A must-have for daily sautéing, sauces, and skillet meals.
2. Calphalon Nonstick Saucepan (3-Qt)
Perfect for boiling gnocchi quickly and evenly. Its nonstick surface prevents sticking while draining and stirring is effortless.
A versatile choice for pasta, grains, soups, and reheating.
3. Microplane Zester/Grater
For finishing touches of freshly grated Parmesan or zesting herbs like thyme or basil.
This lightweight tool adds fresh, aromatic flair to pasta, salads, or desserts with minimal effort.
4. OXO Good Grips Garlic Press
Speeds up prep with finely minced garlic in seconds, keeping your hands odor-free. A kitchen essential for flavor-packed dishes from pasta sauces to marinades.
5. Cuisinart Immersion Blender (Optional)
If you prefer a smoother sauce texture, an immersion blender lets you blend right in the skillet—no transfers or mess. Great for soups, sauces, and purees.
Gnocchi with Tomato Cream Sauce
Equipment
- 1 Medium Saucepan – for boiling gnocchi
- 1 Large Skillet – for sautéing and sauce making
- 1 Slotted Spoon or Strainer – to remove gnocchi from boiling water
- 1 Garlic Press or Knife – for mincing garlic
- 1 Grater – for fresh Parmesan
Ingredients
- 1 pound gnocchi store-bought or homemade
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 2 teaspoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 teaspoons finely minced garlic
- 1 can 15 ounces fire-roasted crushed or diced tomatoes
- ½ cup tomato sauce plain or seasoned
- ½ teaspoon dried Italian seasoning or Herbs de Provence
- ½ cup low-sodium chicken broth or water for vegetarian option
- ⅓ cup heavy cream
- ¼ to ½ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes adjust to heat preference
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt or to taste
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper or to taste
- Optional garnish: fresh basil or thyme and freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the Gnocchi Until Tender: Fill a medium saucepan with about 3 inches of water and bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat. Add the gnocchi and let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or until the gnocchi floats to the surface—a sign that it’s done. Drain immediately, then toss with 2 teaspoons of olive oil to prevent sticking. Set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics and Brown Gnocchi: In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Once melted, stir in the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant but not browned. Add the cooked gnocchi and dried herbs, stirring occasionally. Let the gnocchi cook for 2 to 4 minutes until the edges are lightly golden and crispy. Transfer to a bowl and cover to keep warm.
- Simmer the Creamy Tomato Sauce: In the same skillet, pour in the fire-roasted tomatoes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth. Stir well and bring to a simmer over medium heat. Allow the mixture to cook for about 2 minutes to blend the flavors.
- Finish the Sauce with Cream and Spice: Reduce the heat slightly and stir in the heavy cream, crushed red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce gently simmer for 4 to 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally, until it thickens slightly and becomes creamy.
- Combine Gnocchi and Sauce: Return the sautéed gnocchi to the skillet with the sauce. Gently stir to coat all the pieces evenly. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed with additional salt or pepper.
- Garnish and Serve: Serve hot, topped with fresh thyme or basil and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan if desired. Enjoy immediately while the gnocchi is soft and the sauce is rich and warm.
Notes
- Enhance Garlic Flavor: For a stronger garlic presence and a rustic presentation, consider tossing in a few whole peeled garlic cloves while sautéing.
- Creamier Sauce Option: If you prefer a richer, more luxurious sauce, increase the heavy cream to ½ cup. This makes the dish even more comforting.
- Vegetarian Swap: Replace chicken broth with vegetable broth or water for a meat-free version.
- Storage Tips: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
- Add Protein: Boost the meal by adding cooked Italian sausage, grilled chicken, or sautéed mushrooms for a heartier plate.
Chef’s Secrets for Creamy Perfection
The key to this dish’s irresistible texture and flavor lies in balancing high heat with gentle timing.
When sautéing the gnocchi, be sure to use medium heat to get those delicious golden-brown edges without overcooking the soft centers.
This gives the gnocchi a slightly crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender and pillowy.
Using fire-roasted tomatoes adds a natural smokiness and depth that elevates the sauce far beyond a basic tomato base.
Don’t rush the cream addition—stir it in after the tomatoes have simmered to preserve its richness and prevent curdling.
And for the best results, always taste and adjust salt and pepper at the end to account for varying tomato and broth salt levels.
If you have fresh herbs like basil or thyme on hand, toss them in just before serving for a burst of garden-fresh flavor.
Delicious Ways to Serve This Dish
Gnocchi with tomato cream sauce is a comfort meal on its own, but it also pairs beautifully with a few thoughtful additions.
Serve it alongside a crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sauce.
A side of garlic bread or warm crusty ciabatta helps soak up any leftover sauce on the plate.
To boost protein and turn this dish into a more filling dinner, add grilled chicken breast, sautéed shrimp, or white beans directly into the sauce before mixing in the gnocchi.
If you’re hosting, garnish with extra shaved Parmesan and fresh herbs for an elevated presentation that looks and tastes gourmet.
Smart Storage and Reheating Tips
This dish is as friendly to leftovers as it is to your taste buds.
Once cooled, store any remaining gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
The sauce will continue to thicken as it sits, so when reheating, add a splash of broth, cream, or even water to help loosen it back to its silky texture.
Warm gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to prevent uneven heating.
While this recipe is not ideal for freezing due to the cream content and gnocchi texture, it can be made a few hours ahead and kept warm in a covered skillet over very low heat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes! Shelf-stable or refrigerated store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this dish. It cooks quickly and holds its shape well when pan-seared.
2. How can I make this vegetarian?
To make the dish fully vegetarian, substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth or water. Also, be sure to use vegetarian-friendly Parmesan or omit it entirely.
3. Is there a dairy-free version of the sauce?
Yes. You can replace the heavy cream with full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. The flavor will be slightly different but still deliciously rich and creamy.
4. Can I add vegetables to the sauce?
Absolutely! Spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini can be sautéed along with the garlic for added nutrition and texture. Just be sure to cook off excess moisture before adding the tomatoes.
5. What’s the best way to keep gnocchi from sticking?
After boiling, toss the drained gnocchi with olive oil to prevent clumping. Also, avoid overcrowding the skillet when pan-frying—this helps them crisp up instead of steaming.
This recipe is inspired by lecremedelacrumb and has been carefully refined to enhance clarity, streamline preparation steps, and ensure accurate results. We’ve also included health benefits, nutritional highlights, and Must-Have Tools to help you get the best results every time you cook.