Name: Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata: A Cozy Delight
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Extra-virgin olive oil (Adds richness and flavor; substitute with any light cooking oil.); 6-8 cloves Garlic (Provides aromatic flavor; use minced garlic if fresh isn't available.); 2 pints Cherry tomatoes (Adds freshness and sweetness; can substitute with canned diced tomatoes if fresh aren't handy.); 1/2 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (Provides a hint of heat; omit for a milder dish.); 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (Enhances overall flavor; switch to table salt with slight adjustments as it's more potent.); 1/2 teaspoon Freshly cracked black pepper (Delivers spice and depth; pre-ground black pepper can be used in a pinch.); 1/2 cup Heavy cream (Makes the sauce rich and creamy; replace with half-and-half or non-dairy cream for lighter options.); 2 packages Potato gnocchi (The heart of the dish; gluten-free gnocchi is available for dietary needs.); 2 balls Fresh burrata cheese (Adds creaminess and luxurious texture; substitute with mozzarella if preferred.); 1/2 cup Fresh basil leaves (Provides freshness and brightness; dried basil can be used in a pinch.)

As I stirred the vibrant sauce bubbling on the stove, the comforting scent of roasted cherry tomatoes and garlic danced around the kitchen, instantly transforming my home into a cozy Italian escape. This 30-minute creamy tomato gnocchi with burrata is not just any weeknight meal; it’s a delightful fusion of easy preparation and rich flavor that brings joy to the table. Perfect for a quick dinner after a long day or an impressive dish for friends, this vegetarian recipe is incredibly customizable. Whether you want to add a kick of heat or throw in some seasonal veggies, it’s your canvas to play with! Are you ready to embrace warm, creamy goodness in a matter of minutes?

Why is Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata a Must-Try?

Creamy Comfort: This recipe offers a velvety texture that melts in your mouth, with burrata elevating every bite to heavenly levels of indulgence.

Quick to Prepare: In just 30 minutes, you can have a gourmet meal on the table, perfect for busy weeknights.

Endless Customization: Whether you prefer adding sautéed spinach or adjusting spice levels, this dish is completely adaptable to your palate.

Crowd-Pleasing Appeal: Perfect for impressing guests or simply enjoying a cozy night in, this vegetarian dish will leave everyone asking for seconds.

Fresh Ingredients: Utilizing ripe cherry tomatoes and aromatic garlic not only boosts flavor but encourages a healthy dining experience.

Let your taste buds explore this delicious dish, and if you love quick and satisfying meals, you might also enjoy Cherry Tomato Pasta and Turkey Pasta with Peas.

Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Ingredients

For the Sauce

Extra-virgin olive oil – Adds richness and flavor; substitute with any light cooking oil.
Garlic cloves (6-8) – Provides aromatic flavor; use minced garlic if fresh isn’t available.
Cherry tomatoes (2 pints) – Adds freshness and sweetness; can substitute with canned diced tomatoes if fresh aren’t handy.
Red pepper flakes (1/2 tsp, optional) – Provides a hint of heat; omit for a milder dish.
Kosher salt (1 tsp) – Enhances overall flavor; switch to table salt with slight adjustments as it’s more potent.
Freshly cracked black pepper (1/2 tsp) – Delivers spice and depth; pre-ground black pepper can be used in a pinch.
Heavy cream (1/2 cup) – Makes the sauce rich and creamy; replace with half-and-half or non-dairy cream for lighter options.

For the Gnocchi

Potato gnocchi (2 packages, 16 oz each) – The heart of the dish; gluten-free gnocchi is available for dietary needs.

For the Topping

Fresh burrata cheese (2 balls, 4 oz each) – Adds creaminess and luxurious texture; substitute with mozzarella if preferred.
Fresh basil leaves (1/2 cup, sliced or torn) – Provides freshness and brightness; dried basil can be used in a pinch.

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata

Step 1: Boil Water
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil, which should take about 8-10 minutes. Ensure the water is generously salted to season the gnocchi properly. You’ll know it’s ready when the surface is bubbling vigorously, perfect for cooking the gnocchi and creating a delightful meal.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic
While the water is heating, heat a tablespoon of extra-virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium-low heat. Add 6-8 minced garlic cloves, stirring them for about 2 minutes until they become fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can turn bitter, and let the savory aroma fill your kitchen.

Step 3: Cook Tomatoes
Increase the skillet’s heat to medium and add 2 pints of halved cherry tomatoes. Stir occasionally for about 10-12 minutes, allowing the tomatoes to soften and release their juices, creating a flavorful sauce. Look for the tomatoes to burst and become succulent while blending with the garlic.

Step 4: Season & Add Cream
Once the tomatoes have softened, season them with half a teaspoon of red pepper flakes, 1 teaspoon of kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper to taste. Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in half a cup of heavy cream, simmering for an additional minute until the mixture is well combined and creamy.

Step 5: Cook Gnocchi
Add the potato gnocchi to the boiling water, cooking them until they float and are al dente, which should take about 2-3 minutes. Reserve half a cup of the cooking water, as this starchy liquid will help thicken your creamy tomato sauce. Drain the gnocchi well to ensure they’re ready for the final blend.

Step 6: Combine
Toss the drained gnocchi with the creamy tomato sauce in the skillet, mixing gently to coat each piece. Gradually add the reserved cooking water until the sauce reaches your desired consistency, tossing for about 2 minutes. The gnocchi should be perfectly enveloped in the rich, velvety sauce.

Step 7: Add Basil
Stir in half a cup of sliced or torn fresh basil leaves into the gnocchi and sauce mixture. This will impart a lovely freshness to the creamy tomato gnocchi with burrata. Reserve some basil for a beautiful garnish when serving, enhancing both presentation and flavor.

Step 8: Serve
To serve, spoon the creamy tomato gnocchi into bowls and top each serving with generous pieces of fresh burrata cheese. Garnish with the reserved basil leaves for a pop of color and flavor. Enjoy this comforting dish immediately to experience the delightful combination of creaminess and freshness at its best.

Expert Tips for Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata

Watch the Garlic: Avoid burning by cooking it on medium-low heat; burnt garlic can make your sauce bitter.
Timing is Key: Cook gnocchi according to package instructions to ensure they are al dente; overcooked gnocchi can become mushy.
Adjust Consistency: Gradually add reserved pasta water to the sauce until it reaches your desired creaminess without becoming too thin.
Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh basil and ripe cherry tomatoes for optimal flavor; canned tomatoes can be a last-minute backup.
Serving Temperature: Serve immediately to enjoy the deliciously melty burrata and creamy texture; reheating can alter the dish’s quality.

Make Ahead Options

These Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata are perfect for meal prep, saving you time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the sauce (minus the cream and burrata) up to 24 hours in advance and refrigerate it in an airtight container. This allows the flavors to deepen and meld together beautifully. Just heat it gently on the stovetop, then stir in the heavy cream for that rich texture before adding the cooked gnocchi when ready to serve. To maintain quality, avoid cooking the gnocchi until just before serving, as they will be best when freshly cooked. You’ll have a delicious, satisfying meal ready in no time!

What to Serve with Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata?

A cozy meal is more than just a dish; it’s about creating harmony with delightful pairings that elevate the experience.

Crisp Green Salad: The fresh crunch of mixed greens with a light vinaigrette perfectly cuts through the creamy richness, refreshing your palate.
Garlic Bread: Warm, buttery garlic bread offers an irresistible side that complements the velvety sauce while providing a satisfying crunch.
Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies, like zucchini and bell peppers, add a burst of natural sweetness and a hearty texture, balancing the meal beautifully.
Sparkling Water: A bubbly drink like sparkling water brightens the flavors, cleansing the palate between bites and enhancing the overall dining experience.
Tiramisu: End your meal on a sweet note with this classic dessert; its creamy layers and hint of coffee provide a wonderful contrast to the savory dish.
Grilled Asparagus: Light and smoky, grilled asparagus adds an elegant touch to your table and its earthiness pairs wonderfully with the creaminess of the dish.
Mediterranean Olives: A small dish of marinated olives brings an explosion of flavor to the table, providing a delightful briny contrast to the sweet tomato sauce.
Wine Pairing: A glass of chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio, beautifully complements the flavors and adds a touch of sophistication to your meal.

How to Store and Freeze Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Ensure the gnocchi is well coated in sauce to maintain moisture and flavor.
Freezer: Freeze the creamy tomato gnocchi without burrata for up to 3 months. Portion into freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible for best results.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or cream. This helps to revive the creamy texture of the sauce, ensuring it tastes just as delightful as fresh.
Avoid Freezing Burrata: Keep burrata separate until serving, as it doesn’t freeze well and can alter the dish’s creaminess. Add it fresh just before serving for the best flavor.

Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Variations

Feel free to mix and match flavors and ingredients to create your perfect version of this creamy dish!

Cheese Swap: Try swapping burrata for mozzarella for a slightly different texture and a stretchier consistency that many love.
Veggie Boost: Add sautéed spinach or zucchini to the sauce for added color and nutrition. The fresh veggies meld beautifully with the creamy sauce, making this dish even more wholesome.
Spicy Kick: Increase the heat by adding sliced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. The layers of flavor will invigorate your taste buds!
Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh herbs like oregano or thyme along with basil for an aromatic twist. They’ll elevate your dish with delightful, herbaceous notes.
Gluten-Free Gnocchi: Opt for gluten-free gnocchi to cater to dietary preferences while still enjoying that tender texture. It’s a simple swap that keeps everyone happy!
Tomato Variation: Experiment with different tomato types like sun-dried tomatoes or even roasted red peppers blended into the sauce for added depth and richness.
Cream Alternatives: For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with Greek yogurt or coconut cream; it will keep the dish rich while adding unique flavors.
Protein Addition: Toss in some cooked, chopped chicken or shrimp for added protein that complements the creamy sauce beautifully. Just be sure to adjust your cooking time accordingly!

If you enjoyed this recipe, consider trying out a vibrant Shrimp Tacos with Mango Salsa or a classic Chicken Biscuits with Hot Honey Butter for more tasty, customizable meals!

Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe FAQs

How do I choose the best cherry tomatoes?
Absolutely! When selecting cherry tomatoes, look for plump, vibrant tomatoes with a slightly glossy sheen. They should be firm to the touch with no dark spots or wrinkles. If you can, choose organic tomatoes for the best flavor. Ideally, they should be deeply colored, and if they’re a bit overripe, they can be great for roasting but may not be ideal for fresh eating.

What’s the best way to store leftover creamy tomato gnocchi?
Very! To store your leftovers, transfer the creamy tomato gnocchi into an airtight container. Keep them in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Make sure the gnocchi is well coated in sauce to prevent drying out. When ready to eat, simply reheat on the stovetop with a splash of cream or water to restore its luscious texture.

Can I freeze creamy tomato gnocchi?
Certainly! You can freeze the creamy tomato gnocchi without the burrata for up to 3 months. Portion the gnocchi and sauce into freezer-safe bags, squeezing out as much air as possible. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw in the refrigerator overnight, and reheat gently on the stovetop, adding a bit of water or cream to revive the sauce.

What should I do if my sauce is too thick?
No worries! If your creamy tomato sauce is thicker than desired, simply stir in a little bit of the reserved pasta cooking water or more cream until you reach your preferred consistency. Start by adding a couple of tablespoons, mixing well, and continue to add until it’s just right.

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely! You can easily make this creamy tomato gnocchi with burrata gluten-free by using gluten-free potato gnocchi, which is widely available in stores. Just check the label to ensure it meets your dietary needs, and you’ll have a delicious meal that everyone can enjoy!