If you are searching for a luscious and cozy meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, the Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish effortlessly combines pillowy gnocchi with a dreamy tomato cream sauce, elevated by the luxurious melt of burrata cheese and brightened by fresh basil. It’s comfort food with an elegant twist, perfect for both a casual weeknight dinner and impressing guests without stress.
Ingredients You’ll Need
All the ingredients for this recipe are wonderfully straightforward, yet each one plays a crucial role in crafting the full flavor and texture experience. From the softness of the gnocchi to the richness of burrata, every component is essential and easy to find.
- 1 pound gnocchi: These fluffy potato dumplings are the perfect base, soaking up the creamy sauce beautifully.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Adds a silky richness and helps sauté the aromatics without overpowering them.
- 1 small onion, diced: Gives a subtle sweetness and depth when softened in the pan.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Brings aromatic warmth and a savory punch that elevates the sauce.
- 1 can diced tomatoes: Provides a fresh, tangy body for the sauce that balances the creaminess.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates that irresistible creamy texture that envelops every bite.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes: Adds just a touch of heat, waking up the flavors without overwhelming them.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to bring all the components into harmony.
- 8 oz burrata cheese: The star ingredient that melts into the sauce, delivering a luscious, gooey finish.
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish: Adds a pop of color and a fresh, herbaceous note to finish the dish.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a vigorous boil. Once bubbling, toss in the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions—usually until they float to the surface. This quick cooking ensures they stay pillowy and tender. Drain them carefully and set aside to be sauced later.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
In a roomy skillet, warm the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and cook until they become translucent and sweet, about 5 minutes. Then stir in the minced garlic, letting it cook just long enough to release its fragrant aroma, around 1 to 2 minutes. This sautéed base forms the flavorful backbone of your sauce.
Step 3: Simmer the Tomatoes
Pour the entire can of diced tomatoes, including their juices, into the skillet. Stir everything together, allowing the tomatoes to mingle with the onions and garlic. Let this simmer gently for about 10 minutes so all those fresh tomato flavors deepen and meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add Cream and Seasoning
Next, stir in the heavy cream along with the red pepper flakes for just a touch of spice. Season the sauce with salt and pepper, adjusting to your taste. Continue simmering the sauce for another 5 to 7 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly into a silky, luscious consistency that will cling lovingly to the gnocchi.
Step 5: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce
Gently add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing carefully to coat every piece in the creamy tomato sauce. This step is where the magic happens as the gnocchi soak up all the rich flavors, making each bite a delight.
Step 6: Incorporate Burrata Cheese
Tear the burrata into smaller chunks and nestle them into the gnocchi and sauce mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the burrata melt into the dish for about 2 to 3 minutes. This transformation turns the sauce into an irresistibly creamy and indulgent masterpiece.
Step 7: Final Stir and Serve
Remove the lid and stir the melted burrata gently into the gnocchi, creating the perfect creamy texture that defines this recipe. Scatter fresh basil leaves on top for a fragrant finish, and your Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe is ready to delight.
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh basil leaves aren’t just for color—they bring a bright, slightly peppery taste that cuts through the richness with grace. For an extra touch, a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil makes the presentation and flavors pop even more.
Side Dishes
This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or a side of roasted vegetables. Crusty garlic bread is also a fabulous option to scoop up every last bit of that luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a charming dinner party, plate the gnocchi in shallow bowls and top each serving with an additional small burrata piece. Garnish with microgreens or edible flowers to impress guests with a restaurant-quality look. You can also sprinkle toasted pine nuts for unexpected crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your creamy tomato gnocchi with burrata to an airtight container and keep it in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for up to 2 days, though the burrata’s texture might soften further.
Freezing
Because of the delicate burrata and cream sauce, freezing is not recommended. The texture and flavor may change unfavorably when thawed.
Reheating
Reheat your leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cream from separating. Adding a splash of cream or milk can help restore that silky, luscious consistency.
FAQs
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! If you have ripe, juicy tomatoes, peeling and dicing them can give the sauce an even fresher taste. Just be sure to simmer them a bit longer to achieve the right texture for the sauce.
Is there a substitute for burrata?
Mozzarella or ricotta can work in a pinch, but burrata’s creamy center is what makes this recipe truly special. If you want to keep the indulgent creaminess, fresh mozzarella is your best alternative.
How spicy is this dish?
The red pepper flakes add just a gentle kick to balance the creaminess, but you can adjust the amount to suit your heat preference or omit them entirely if you prefer no spice.
Can I make this vegan?
To make a vegan version, swap the heavy cream for full-fat coconut milk or a cashew cream, and replace burrata with a vegan mozzarella-style cheese. The flavors will be different but still delicious and comforting.
What wine pairs well with this gnocchi?
A crisp, light-bodied white wine like Pinot Grigio or a fruity Chianti pairs beautifully, cutting through the richness while complementing the tomato and basil notes.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe that feels like a celebration of simple ingredients coming together in a way that’s both comforting and elegant. I encourage you to try it out—it’s guaranteed to become one of your favorite weeknight treats or a stunning dish to share with friends. Enjoy every creamy, cheesy bite!
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Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 20m
- Total Time: 0h 35m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata is a comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring pillowy gnocchi cooked to perfection and tossed in a rich, creamy tomato sauce made with sautéed onions, garlic, diced tomatoes, and a touch of cream. Finished with luscious burrata cheese that melts into the sauce and fresh basil garnish, this recipe delivers a luscious, flavorful meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
Gnocchi and Sauce
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Cheese and Garnish
- 8 oz burrata cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Gnocchi: Heat a large pot of salted water over high heat. Once boiling, add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté Onions and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sauté until translucent and soft, about 5 minutes. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Add Tomatoes and Simmer: Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices, stirring to combine with the onion and garlic. Let the mixture simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to reduce slightly.
- Incorporate Cream and Spices: Stir in the heavy cream and red pepper flakes, then season with salt and pepper to taste. Continue simmering the sauce for another 5-7 minutes until it thickens to a creamy consistency.
- Toss Gnocchi in Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, gently tossing to coat each piece evenly with the creamy tomato sauce, ensuring a uniform mixture.
- Add Burrata Cheese: Tear the burrata cheese into small pieces and nestle them into the gnocchi and sauce mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and let the burrata melt into the dish for about 2-3 minutes, creating a luscious creamy texture.
- Combine Burrata Into Sauce: Remove the lid and gently stir the melted burrata into the gnocchi mixture, blending everything into a rich, creamy sauce.
- Garnish and Serve: Add fresh basil leaves on top for a burst of color and bright flavor. Serve the creamy tomato gnocchi with burrata hot, enjoying a satisfying and comforting Italian meal. Buon appetito!
Notes
- Use fresh gnocchi if possible for the best texture.
- If burrata is unavailable, fresh mozzarella can be used as a substitute.
- Adjust red pepper flakes quantity to your preferred spice level or omit for a milder dish.
- Fresh basil leaves add a lovely freshness; substitute with parsley if needed.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the creamy texture of burrata.
