Welcome to the world of swift and satisfying cooking! In this post, I’ll share my recipe for One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi. Imagine a rich, creamy dish that brings comfort in every bite—all made in just one pot! With fresh cherry tomatoes, basil, and tender gnocchi, this meal is easy to make and packed with flavor. Ready to impress your taste buds without the mess? Let’s dive in!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 pound gnocchi (fresh or shelf-stable)
– 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream
Additional Ingredients
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Ingredients
– Crushed red pepper flakes
The heart of my One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi lies in its fresh ingredients. Gnocchi forms the base of this dish. You can choose fresh or shelf-stable gnocchi based on what you have. Fresh gnocchi cooks quicker, while shelf-stable can be stored longer.
Cherry tomatoes add a sweet burst of flavor. Halving them helps release their juices, creating a rich sauce. Vegetable broth brings in depth and moisture. Heavy cream is the magic ingredient. It gives the dish its creamy texture and richness.
Next, fresh basil leaves infuse a bright taste. I always chop some but save a bit for later. Grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty kick. Garlic enhances the overall flavor with its aromatic notes. Olive oil is essential for sautéing and adds a nice finish.
Don’t forget the salt and pepper! They help balance all the flavors. If you like a bit of heat, crushed red pepper flakes are a great option. They elevate the dish without overpowering it.
Gather these ingredients, and you’re on your way to a creamy delight!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
– Heating olive oil and cooking garlic
Start by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add 2 minced cloves of garlic. Stir and cook for about 1 minute. The garlic should smell nice but not burn.
– Adding cherry tomatoes
Next, add 2 cups of halved cherry tomatoes to the pot. Stir them around. Cook for 3 to 5 minutes. The tomatoes will soften and release their juices, making a tasty base.
Cooking the Gnocchi
– Pouring in vegetable broth
Pour in 1 cup of vegetable broth. Bring the mix to a simmer. Let it cook for 2 to 3 minutes. This adds flavor and moisture to your dish.
– Stirring in gnocchi and cooking
Now, add 1 pound of gnocchi to the pot. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Stir the gnocchi into the tomato mix. Cook for about 5 minutes. The gnocchi will float to the top when done.
Making the Creamy Sauce
– Adding heavy cream and Parmesan cheese
Once the gnocchi is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese. Mix until the cheese melts and the sauce is smooth.
– Incorporating fresh basil and seasoning
Fold in 1 cup of chopped fresh basil, saving some for garnish. Season with salt, pepper, and optional crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well to combine. Let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken.
Tips & Tricks
Enhancing Flavor
To boost the taste of your One-Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi, consider adding crushed red pepper flakes. This small touch gives the dish a pleasant kick. If you want more flavor, try adding fresh herbs like oregano or thyme. They pair well with the basil and tomatoes.
Texture and Consistency
To get that perfect creamy sauce, make sure to stir in the heavy cream slowly. This helps it blend well with the other ingredients. If you like a thicker sauce, let it cook a bit longer. You can also add more cheese for creaminess if desired.
Cooking Equipment
Use a large pot or deep skillet for the best results. A non-stick surface helps prevent sticking and burning, making cleanup easier. A wooden spoon is great for stirring the ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Variations
Ingredient Swaps
You can swap ingredients to make this dish your own.
– Using different types of pasta: If you don’t have gnocchi, try small pasta shapes like penne or fusilli. They soak up the sauce well.
– Substituting cream with lighter options: For a lighter dish, use half-and-half or even coconut milk. This keeps the creamy texture but reduces calories.
Flavor Additions
Get creative with what you add to the dish.
– Incorporating protein like chicken or shrimp: Adding cooked chicken or shrimp gives the dish more protein. Cook it separately, then mix it in.
– Adding vegetables for a healthier twist: Toss in veggies like spinach or zucchini. They add nutrition and color, making your meal even better.
Serving Suggestions
Think about what to serve with your gnocchi for a full meal.
– Pairing with sides or salads: A fresh green salad pairs well with the creamy sauce. You can also serve crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
– Suggestions for side dishes that complement gnocchi: Roasted vegetables or garlic bread are great sides. They add flavor and texture to your meal.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your creamy tomato basil gnocchi fresh, use airtight containers. Glass or plastic containers work well. Store the dish in the fridge. It stays good for up to three days. Make sure to cool it first before sealing.
Reheating Instructions
When it’s time to enjoy leftovers, heat gently on the stove. This keeps the sauce smooth and creamy. Add a splash of cream or broth to help. Stir often to avoid burning. If the sauce separates, whisk it back together.
Freezing Tips
You can freeze creamy tomato basil gnocchi for later. Let it cool completely before freezing. Use freezer-safe bags or containers. Press out as much air as you can. It can last for up to three months.
To thaw, place it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on low heat, stirring gently. Add a bit of cream or broth to help it return to its creamy state. Enjoy your meal even after storing!
FAQs
Can I make this dish vegan?
Yes, you can make this dish vegan with a few swaps. Use plant-based gnocchi made from potatoes or other veggies. Replace heavy cream with coconut milk or cashew cream. For cheese, try nutritional yeast or a vegan Parmesan. These swaps keep the creamy texture while making it plant-based.
What can I use if I don’t have gnocchi?
If you lack gnocchi, don’t worry! You can use other pasta types. Try small shapes like penne, fusilli, or farfalle. Cook them in the same sauce until tender. For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free pasta. This will still create a tasty one-pot dish.
How do I know when the gnocchi is done?
Watch for gnocchi to float to the top of the pot. This shows they’re cooked through. You can also taste one to check for doneness. It should be soft but firm. Avoid overcooking to keep the perfect texture.
This blog post covered how to make a delicious gnocchi dish. We explored the key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and helpful tips. You can customize this recipe by adding flavors and swapping ingredients. Remember to store leftovers properly and enjoy them later by reheating correctly. With these instructions, you can create a creamy, flavorful meal that satisfies your cravings. Now it’s your turn to try making this gnocchi dish at home. Enjoy the cooking experience and have fun experimenting!
