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: 1 lb gnocchi; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Salt and pepper, to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi as it brings my family together around the table for a cozy meal. The soft pillows of gnocchi pair beautifully with fresh tomatoes and fragrant basil, creating a dish that's both comforting and vibrant. I enjoy experimenting with different toppings, like grated Parmesan or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the weekend and indulge in seasonal produce, making every bite a flavorful experience.

Created by

Nora Ellis

Last updated on 2026-01-10T11:25:11.358Z

Whenever I'm in the mood for something truly comforting, I turn to my Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi. The combination of fresh tomatoes and basil transforms this dish into a seasonal delight. I’ve found that using ripe, in-season tomatoes makes a huge difference in flavor, so I always try to source the best ingredients I can find.

While preparing the gnocchi, I love to focus on achieving that perfect melt-in-your-mouth texture. Boiling them until they float is my little trick. It’s these small details that elevate the dish and ensure it’s a hit every time I share it with family and friends.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Fresh basil elevates the dish with a burst of flavor.
The gnocchi's soft texture is indulgent and satisfying.
Perfect for a cozy family dinner or special gatherings.

      

Perfecting the Gnocchi

To achieve the perfect texture with your gnocchi, it's essential not to overcook them. As soon as they float to the surface of the boiling water, they are ready to be drained. If you leave them in for too long, they can become mushy and lose their delightful pillowy consistency. Make sure to use a large pot with plenty of salted water to ensure even cooking.

A great tip for cooking gnocchi is to place them in boiling water one at a time. This minimizes the risk of sticking together. After draining, you can lightly toss the gnocchi in olive oil, which not only adds flavor but also prevents them from sticking as you prepare the sauce.

Sautéing the Tomatoes to Perfection

When sautéing the cherry tomatoes, resist the urge to stir too frequently. Allow them to sit for a minute or two after adding them to the skillet so that they can develop a bit of caramelization. This enhances their sweetness and adds depth to the overall flavor of the dish. Look for the tomatoes to soften and start to burst, releasing their juices.

It's important to keep the heat at medium to avoid burning the garlic or tomatoes. If the garlic starts to brown too quickly, lower the heat to ensure it becomes fragrant without becoming bitter. This step is crucial as it lays the foundation for the sauce, balancing the acidity of the tomatoes with the richness of the dish.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

For serving, consider adding a drizzle of high-quality extra-virgin olive oil on top, which can enhance the brightness of the dish. A few fresh basil leaves can also elevate the presentation. You can experiment with toppings like crushed red pepper flakes for added heat or even a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.

If you're looking to make this dish ahead of time, you can prepare the sautéed tomato mixture and store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. Just reheat it gently before adding the cooked gnocchi. For a twist, consider swapping out regular gnocchi for sweet potato gnocchi, which adds a lovely sweetness that pairs beautifully with the fresh tomatoes and basil.

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients to make your Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi:

Ingredients

1 lb gnocchi
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Now that you have everything, let's start cooking!

Instructions

Follow these steps to prepare your Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi:

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes. Once cooked, drain and set aside.

Sauté the Tomatoes

In a skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant. Then, add the halved cherry tomatoes, cooking until they soften, about 5-7 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the tomatoes and toss gently to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in the fresh basil and cook for another minute until heated through.

Serve

Plate the gnocchi and finish with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy your delicious Sunday dinner!

Now, sit back and enjoy your homemade meal!

Pro Tips

For an added layer of flavor, consider incorporating a splash of balsamic vinegar into the sautéed tomatoes. It enhances the sweetness and adds a nice tangy note to the dish.

Ingredient Insights

Using fresh basil is key to this dish, as it brings a fragrant herbal note that complements the sweetness of the tomatoes. If basil isn't available, consider subbing with fresh oregano, but reduce the amount by half, as its flavor is more intense.

For the best results with the cherry tomatoes, opt for ripe ones. Look for a glossy exterior and a sweet aroma when selecting your tomatoes at the market. If they are out of season, canned San Marzano tomatoes can work as a substitute, just be sure to sauté them over medium heat to reduce excess moisture.

Make-Ahead Tips

If you're planning on serving this dish for a gathering, you can easily make the sauce a day ahead. Store the sautéed tomatoes in an airtight container in the fridge. When you're ready to serve, simply cook the gnocchi, reheat the sauce, and combine.

For those who love prepping for the week, consider cooking a larger batch of gnocchi. You can freeze them for up to three months. Just make sure to dust them lightly with flour before freezing to prevent sticking. When ready to use, cook them directly from frozen in boiling water, adjusting the time as necessary until they float.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

If you find that your gnocchi are sticking together after cooking, it's likely they were overcooked or not enough flour was used in the mixture. Ensure you're using enough flour when making homemade gnocchi, as this helps create a chewy texture that holds up during cooking.

Should you encounter excess moisture in the dish, consider letting the sautéed tomatoes simmer a bit longer to reduce down. This concentrates their flavor and prevents the sauce from becoming too watery when combined with the gnocchi.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi saves time and can be just as delicious as homemade.

→ Can I add protein to this dish?

Yes! Grilled chicken or shrimp can be great additions for added protein.

→ What other herbs can I use?

You can substitute basil with oregano or parsley if you prefer. Fresh herbs really brighten up the flavor.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a splash of water.