Are you ready for a quick and tasty meal? This Creamy One Pot Tomato Basil Gnocchi recipe is perfect for busy weeknights. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor. You only need one pot and a few simple ingredients. In no time, you'll enjoy a warm, creamy dish that’s sure to please everyone. Let’s gather our ingredients and dive into this delicious recipe!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi
To make this dish, gather these key ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
These ingredients create a rich and creamy sauce that coats the gnocchi perfectly.
Optional Ingredients and Garnishes
You can enhance your dish with these optional items:
- Extra basil for garnish
- Additional Parmesan cheese for topping
These add flavor and make your dish look even more appealing.
Ingredient Substitutions
If you need to swap ingredients, here are some ideas:
- Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream for a dairy-free option.
- Swap vegetable broth with chicken broth for extra flavor.
- Try fresh tomatoes if you do not have crushed tomatoes.
These substitutions will keep your dish tasty and fun while catering to your needs.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparation Steps
To start, gather all your ingredients. You will need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: Extra basil and Parmesan for garnish
Next, measure everything out. Having your ingredients ready makes cooking easier and faster.
Cooking Process Explained
Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the minced garlic. Sauté for about one minute until it smells good.
Now, stir in the crushed tomatoes, vegetable broth, heavy cream, and tomato paste. Mix everything well. Season with oregano, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture gently simmer for a few minutes.
Add the potato gnocchi to the pot. Stir to coat them in the creamy sauce. Cover the pot and cook for about 4-5 minutes. Stir occasionally to keep the gnocchi from sticking. They should be tender when done.
After the gnocchi are cooked, reduce the heat to low. Add the torn basil leaves and grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce is creamy.
Final Touches for Serving
Once done, taste the dish. Adjust the seasoning if needed.
Serve the creamy gnocchi in bowls. For a nice touch, garnish with extra torn basil leaves and a sprinkle of Parmesan on top. This makes the dish look great and adds more flavor. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
Common Mistakes to Avoid
One common mistake is overcooking the gnocchi. Gnocchi cooks quickly, usually in 4-5 minutes. If you cook it too long, it can become mushy. Another mistake is not seasoning well. Taste your sauce before serving. A pinch of salt or pepper can make a big difference. Lastly, be careful with the heat. Cooking on high can burn the garlic before the sauce is ready.
How to Enhance Flavor
To boost the flavor, add fresh herbs. You can use thyme or parsley along with basil. A splash of balsamic vinegar adds depth to the sauce. For heat lovers, sprinkle in red pepper flakes. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness. Lastly, finish with a drizzle of high-quality olive oil before serving for a gourmet touch.
Tools You'll Need for Easy Cooking
For this recipe, you need a large pot. A heavy-bottomed pot is best for even heat. You will also need a wooden spoon for stirring. A sharp knife will help you chop the garlic and herbs. Use measuring cups for accurate amounts. If you have a lid for your pot, that’s great for simmering the sauce. A grater is handy for the Parmesan cheese, too.
Variations
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
You can easily make this dish vegetarian or vegan. For vegetarian, just keep the heavy cream and Parmesan. For a vegan version, swap heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream. Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor. This way, you keep all the creaminess and taste without dairy.
Ingredient Swaps for Different Flavors
You can change flavors by swapping ingredients. Try adding sautéed mushrooms for an earthy taste. You can also use spinach or kale for more greens. For a spicy kick, toss in red pepper flakes. If you want a smoky flavor, add some smoked paprika. These swaps keep the dish exciting while still being simple.
Serving Suggestions with Sides
When serving creamy tomato basil gnocchi, pair it with a fresh salad. A simple arugula salad with lemon dressing works well. You can also serve garlic bread on the side to soak up the sauce. For a heartier meal, add roasted vegetables or a side of grilled chicken. These sides balance the rich flavors of the gnocchi.
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
After enjoying your creamy tomato basil gnocchi, let it cool first. Then, place it in an airtight container. This helps keep it fresh. Store the container in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to label it with the date for easy tracking.
Reheating Instructions
When you want to enjoy your leftovers, reheat them gently. You can use a pot on the stove or a microwave. If using the stove, add a splash of broth or cream. This keeps the dish creamy. Heat it slowly on low until warm. Stir often to avoid sticking. In the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between until the gnocchi is hot.
Freezing Gnocchi for Future Meals
If you want to save some gnocchi for later, freezing works well. First, let the dish cool completely. Then, spoon it into freezer-safe bags. Flatten the bags to save space. Remove as much air as you can before sealing. You can freeze it for up to three months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above. Enjoy a quick meal anytime!
FAQs
Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of packaged?
Yes, you can use fresh gnocchi. Fresh gnocchi cooks faster than packaged ones. Adjust your cooking time. Check it after about 2-3 minutes. Fresh gnocchi will float when done. This gives you a light and fluffy texture.
How long will leftovers last in the fridge?
Leftovers can last up to three days in the fridge. Store them in an airtight container. The sauce will thicken as it cools. You may need to add a splash of broth when reheating. This helps keep the gnocchi creamy.
Can I make this recipe ahead of time?
You can make the sauce ahead of time. Cook the sauce and store it separately. When ready, heat the sauce and add the gnocchi. This keeps the dish fresh and tasty. It saves time for busy days.
This blog post covers all you need for creamy tomato basil gnocchi. We explored essential ingredients, cooking steps, and helpful tips. You learned about variations like vegetarian options and how to store leftovers. Remember, good gnocchi takes practice, so don't rush. Enjoy playing with flavors and finding what you love. With these steps, you can create a delightful dish anytime. Happy cooking!
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