Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi

Name: Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup ricotta cheese; 1 egg, beaten; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg; 3 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I love making Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi because it perfectly combines the vibrant flavors of fresh tomatoes and basil into a comforting dish that's great for family gatherings. The texture of the gnocchi is light and tender, soaking up the rich sauce beautifully. I often prepare it on lazy Sundays when I want something hearty yet uncomplicated. This recipe not only warms the soul but also fills the kitchen with an irresistible aroma that draws everyone in. You can't go wrong with this classic Italian favorite!

Created by

Evelyn Parker

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:28:13.601Z

When I first tried making gnocchi from scratch, I was surprised by how easy and rewarding it was. I started with basic ingredients and gradually perfected my technique by experimenting with different types of potatoes and flours. One tip I learned is to avoid over-kneading the dough; otherwise, the gnocchi can become dense. Instead, I gently mix until just combined for the perfect lightness.

On another occasion, I decided to add vibrant cherry tomatoes and fresh basil from my garden to the sauce, turning a simple dish into something extraordinary. The sweetness of the ripe tomatoes combined with fragrant basil elevates this dish to something truly special, perfect for any family dinner or gathering!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh flavors that brighten any meal
Homemade gnocchi that's soft and pillowy
A celebratory dish perfect for gatherings

      

Gnocchi Mastery

Perfecting gnocchi takes a bit of practice, but with a gentle touch, you'll create wonderfully soft and pillowy dumplings. When mixing the dough, work quickly but carefully to avoid over-kneading, which can lead to a dense texture. Aim for a dough that is just combined and pliable; it should not stick excessively to your hands or the surface. If it feels too sticky, lightly incorporate more flour a tablespoon at a time until manageable.

After cutting your gnocchi into bite-sized pieces, consider using a fork to create a little groove on each piece. This simple step not only enhances the gnocchi’s appearance but also helps the sauce cling better to each bite, making for a more flavorful experience. Just press down lightly on each piece while rolling it off the tines.

Tomato Basil Sauce Secrets

The star of the sauce is the cherry tomatoes, which should be ripe and bursting with flavor. When sautéing, be patient and let them cook long enough to caramelize slightly, enhancing their natural sweetness. Stir occasionally until they soften and release their juices, typically around 5 minutes over medium heat. If you prefer a smoother sauce, consider mashing some of the tomatoes with the back of a spoon to help incorporate them into a more cohesive sauce.

Basil brings a fresh pop of flavor, but it's sensitive to heat. To maintain its bright color and aromatic qualities, add it at the end of the cooking process. I usually tear the basil leaves rather than chop them to avoid bruising, which can result in a bitter taste. This method gives your sauce an aromatic finish that truly enhances the overall dish.

Ingredients

Gather your ingredients to make this delicious gnocchi.

For the Gnocchi

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup ricotta cheese
1 egg, beaten
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon nutmeg

For the Tomato Basil Sauce

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

Once you have everything ready, you can begin preparing the dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delightful gnocchi.

Make the Gnocchi

In a large bowl, combine flour, ricotta cheese, beaten egg, salt, and nutmeg. Mix until a dough forms, then knead lightly on a floured surface until smooth. Cut into pieces and roll into ropes, then cut into bite-sized pieces.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add gnocchi in batches; once they float to the surface, cook for 2 more minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add halved cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper, cooking until the tomatoes release their juices, about 5 minutes. Stir in fresh basil.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce, tossing gently to combine. Serve hot, garnished with additional basil if desired.

Your delicious Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi is now ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For the best flavor, use ripe, in-season tomatoes and fresh basil. Feel free to customize the sauce by adding crushed red pepper for heat or a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

Gnocchi can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 24 hours or frozen for several weeks. To freeze, arrange the gnocchi on a floured baking sheet and place it in the freezer until solid. Once frozen, transfer them to a resealable bag. This method prevents them from sticking together and allows you to cook them straight from frozen—just extend the boil time by a minute or two.

The tomato basil sauce can also be prepared ahead of time. In fact, the flavors deepen and improve if allowed to sit for a few hours or even overnight. Simply reheat the sauce gently before adding the cooked gnocchi to maintain the fresh taste and bright colors, ensuring that the dish remains inviting.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your tomato basil gnocchi alongside a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. The acidity of the dressing will cut through the richness of the dish and elevate the flavors. Additionally, consider offering crusty bread on the side for mopping up any extra sauce—that’s always a hit!

You can also personalize your dish by adding vegetables like spinach or zucchini to the sauce for an extra nutritional boost. They can be sautéed along with the garlic before adding the tomatoes. This not only adds color but also texture, making for a heartier plate that satisfies even the hungriest of diners.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi can save time; just follow the package instructions for cooking.

→ What can I substitute for ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or a mix of cream cheese and yogurt.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

→ Can I freeze gnocchi?

Yes, freeze uncooked gnocchi by arranging them in a single layer on a baking sheet until firm, then transfer to a freezer bag.