Name: Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata for Busy Weeknights
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons Extra-virgin olive oil (Substitute with avocado oil for a unique taste.); 3 cloves Garlic (Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth.); 2 cups Cherry tomatoes (Any ripe tomatoes will suffice.); 1 teaspoon Red pepper flakes (Optional; skip for a milder dish.); 1 teaspoon Kosher salt (Sea salt is a great alternative.); 1 teaspoon Freshly cracked black pepper (Add to taste.); 1 cup Heavy cream (Use half-and-half for a lighter option.); 1 pound Potato gnocchi (Store-bought or homemade.); 8 ounces Fresh burrata cheese (Mozzarella can be substituted.); 1 bunch Fresh basil leaves (Dried basil can be used if fresh isn’t available.)

As I stood in my kitchen, the aroma of sautéing garlic filled the air, instantly transporting me to an Italian trattoria. There’s something magical about creating a comforting bowl of 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata at home, especially when it brings everyone together around the table. This quick dinner is not only a delightful explosion of rich flavors but also a solution for those busy weeknights when you crave something special without the fuss. With just seven fresh ingredients, this vegetarian dish is about as easy as it gets while still feeling luxurious. The pillowy gnocchi nestled in a velvety tomato cream sauce creates the ultimate cozy comfort food, making it a sure-fire hit for both family and friends. Ready to whip up something that’ll have everyone asking for seconds? Let’s dive into the recipe!

Why is Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Special?

Quick Preparation: In just 30 minutes, you can serve a homemade meal that impresses.
Rich, Creamy Sauce: The luscious tomato cream sauce envelops each gnocchi, delivering a burst of flavor.
Simple Ingredients: With only seven fresh components, it’s easy to whip up without a long grocery list.
Vegetarian Delight: This comforting dish caters to both meat lovers and vegetarians alike, ensuring everyone enjoys a delicious bite.
Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for family dinners or entertaining friends, it’s bound to have everyone raving about your cooking.
Perfect Pairing: Serve alongside a crisp salad for a complete meal, or try it with a side of Garlic Butter Sauce for an extra flavor boost!

Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Ingredients

For the Sauce

Extra-virgin olive oil – A flavorful base for sautéing; substitute with avocado oil for a unique taste.
Garlic cloves – Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth; minced garlic can work in a pinch.
Cherry tomatoes – Sweet and tangy, these are perfect in the sauce; any ripe tomatoes will suffice.
Red pepper flakes (optional) – For a touch of heat; feel free to skip if you prefer a milder dish.
Kosher salt – Enhances flavor; sea salt is a great alternative.
Freshly cracked black pepper – Add to taste; ground black pepper works as well.
Heavy cream – Provides the creamy richness; use half-and-half or dairy-free cream for a lighter option.

For the Gnocchi

Potato gnocchi – The star of the dish; store-bought makes it quick, or go homemade for an extra touch.

For Garnish

Fresh burrata cheese – Adds a luxurious, creamy finish; mozzarella can be substituted for a different texture.
Fresh basil leaves – Imparts a fresh note; dried basil can be used if the fresh variety isn’t available.

This Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata recipe is not just a meal—it’s a delightful experience that comes together effortlessly! Happy cooking!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata

Step 1: Boil the Gnocchi
Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over high heat. This will be used to cook your potato gnocchi, ensuring it’s tender and fluffy. Once the water is bubbling vigorously, add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions until they float to the surface, indicating they’re done—typically around 2-3 minutes.

Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
While the gnocchi cooks, heat a skillet over medium-low heat and add a generous drizzle of extra-virgin olive oil. Once hot, toss in minced garlic cloves and sauté for about 2 minutes until the garlic is fragrant and begins to turn golden, careful not to let it burn. This aromatic foundation sets the stage for the creamy tomato sauce.

Step 3: Cook the Tomatoes
Increase the heat to medium and add halved cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them for about 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and start to break down into a jammy texture. If the garlic begins to brown too quickly, lower the heat to prevent bitterness. This step enhances the flavors of your Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata.

Step 4: Prepare the Sauce
Stir in a dash of red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper into the jammy tomatoes. Next, reduce the heat slightly before pouring in heavy cream, stirring to create a luscious sauce. Let this mixture simmer gently for 2-3 minutes to allow the flavors to meld perfectly, coating the gnocchi beautifully.

Step 5: Combine the Gnocchi and Sauce
Once the gnocchi is cooked and has floated to the top, reserve about ½ cup of the cooking water before draining it. Add the drained gnocchi to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce, tossing everything together. Pour in a splash of the reserved pasta water if needed, and cook for an additional 2 minutes until the mixture is glossy and beautifully incorporated.

Step 6: Finish and Serve
Lastly, fold in fresh basil leaves, saving a few for garnishing, and add in pieces of creamy burrata cheese. Remove the skillet from the heat, allowing the heat from the pasta to slightly warm the burrata. Plate your Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata, garnishing with the reserved basil leaves for a fragrant touch.

Expert Tips for Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata

Perfectly Cooked Gnocchi: Avoid mushy gnocchi by cooking it until just tender; it should be firm to the bite, typically 2-3 minutes.
Garlic Flavor Boost: Use plenty of fresh garlic for a flavor-packed sauce. Adjust according to your preference, but don’t skimp!
Creamy Burrata: Add burrata pieces at the end to keep their luscious texture intact; don’t cook it too long or it will lose creaminess.
Add More Veggies: Enhance nutrition by sautéing spinach or including roasted bell peppers; they contribute vibrant flavors and textures to the dish.
Custom Seasoning: Taste the sauce and tweak salt and pepper as desired; everyone’s palette is different, so find that perfect balance for your Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata!

Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Variations

Feel free to play with these ideas and make this creamy tomato gnocchi your own!

Dairy-Free: Use coconut cream in place of heavy cream and omit burrata for a vegan-friendly version without sacrificing creaminess.
Imagine a velvety sauce enriched with the tropical flavors of coconut—comfort food that makes your taste buds dance!
Vegetable Boost: Add in sautéed spinach, zucchini, or roasted bell peppers to incorporate vibrant colors and nutrition.
These additions not only enhance the dish visually but also offer extra layers of flavor that complement the sauce beautifully.
Pasta Swap: Try swapping gnocchi for fettuccine or any pasta shape you prefer; simply adjust the cooking time accordingly.
This twist keeps the essence of the dish while allowing you to enjoy your favorite pasta type!
Zesty Lemon: A squeeze of fresh lemon juice and zest can brighten up the whole dish, adding a refreshing bite to the creaminess.
Pairing citrus with tomato creates a delightful contrast that elevates the overall flavor experience.
Add Heat: For those who love heat, sprinkle in more red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños to amp up the spice level.
This variation transforms the dish into a fiery delight, perfect for spice enthusiasts at the dinner table.
Umami Flavor: Mix in some sautéed mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes for an umami flavor explosion that rounds out the dish.
These rich ingredients bring depth and complexity, making each bite a taste of gourmet indulgence.
Garnish Enhancements: Instead of just basil, finish with roasted pine nuts or a sprinkle of nutritional yeast for an added layer of texture and flavor.
These simple touches can transform your presentation while introducing delightful crunch and nutty flavors.

Don’t forget to try variations that suit your taste preferences. If you’re in the mood for something different, how about serving it with a side of a fresh salad, or perhaps a bowl of Garlic Chicken Gnocchi Skillet for a heartier meal? The possibilities are endless!

Make Ahead Options

These 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata are ideal for meal prep, letting you save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the garlic and halve the cherry tomatoes up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator. Alternatively, prepare the creamy tomato sauce itself (without the gnocchi or burrata) and keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions, then combine it with the prepped sauce, folding in the fresh burrata just before serving. By prepping ahead, you’ll have a comforting, homemade meal ready in no time, perfect for impressing your family!

What to Serve with 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata

A delightful meal isn’t complete without the perfect accompaniments that elevate each savory bite and excite your palate.

Crisp Side Salad: A refreshing mix of arugula, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy lemon vinaigrette provides a bright contrast to the creamy dish.
Garlic Bread: Golden, toasted garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that luscious tomato cream sauce, making each mouthful a flavorful delight.
Sauteed Spinach: Lightly cooked spinach with garlic adds a pop of color and boosts nutrition, complementing the richness of the gnocchi.
Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots offers a crunchy texture and earthy flavor, enhancing your dinner experience.
White Wine: A chilled glass of Pinot Grigio balances the richness of the creamy sauce with its crisp acidity, making it the ideal sip.
Chocolate Mousse: Conclude your meal with a silky chocolate mousse for a sweet, decadent touch, perfect for satisfying your dessert cravings.

With these enticing pairings, your 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata transforms into a heartwarming feast sure to impress every guest at your table!

Storage Tips for Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This keeps your creamy tomato gnocchi fresh and ready to enjoy again.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the dish (without burrata) for up to 3 months. Be sure to let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
Reheating: When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to maintain the right texture, ensuring the gnocchi doesn’t become mushy.
Leftover Burrata: If you have burrata leftover, store it separately in the fridge and add it fresh when reheating the gnocchi for an indulgent finish.

Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe FAQs

What type of tomatoes should I use for this recipe?
I recommend using ripe cherry tomatoes for their sweetness and acidity. However, if they’re not available, you can substitute any ripe tomatoes you have on hand. Just chop them up to an appropriate size for cooking. The goal is to achieve that delicious, jammy texture that complements the creamy sauce.

How should I store leftover Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps the flavors fresh and ready for a quick meal. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to maintain the texture.

Can I freeze Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata?
Absolutely! You can freeze the dish (without the burrata) for up to 3 months. To do this, allow the gnocchi to cool completely after cooking, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. For reheating, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator, then warm it gently on the stovetop with a bit of reserved pasta water for the best results.

What if my gnocchi comes out mushy?
If you find your gnocchi is mushy, it may have been overcooked. Always cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Make sure they only cook until they float to the surface for that perfect tender but firm bite. If you overcook them, try using slightly less cooking time next time, and you’ll nail the texture!

Is this Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata suitable for a vegan diet?
To make this dish vegan, simply replace the heavy cream with a dairy-free alternative, such as cashew cream, and omit the burrata. You can also explore using a vegan cheese substitute if you still want that creamy element. This way, you can enjoy the delicious flavors of the dish while accommodating a vegan lifestyle!