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Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe

4.5 from 99 reviews
  • Author: Jessica
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop and Grilling
  • Cuisine: Italian
  • Diet: Vegetarian

Description

This Creamy Tomato Gnocchi recipe features tender gnocchi simmered in a rich and flavorful tomato sauce, enhanced with cream cheese and topped with melted mozzarella for a delightful finish. It’s a comforting and easy-to-make Italian-inspired dish perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

Scale

For the Sauce

  • 1 tbsp oil
  • 1 small red onion, diced
  • 100g cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) water or vegetable broth
  • 1 tbsp lighter cream cheese
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp Italian seasoning
  • 1 tsp thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Main Ingredients

  • 300g fresh gnocchi
  • 50g mozzarella, thinly sliced
  • Fresh basil, thinly sliced


Instructions

  1. Sauté the Onion: Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a skillet or pan over low heat. Add the diced red onion and sauté gently for 5-6 minutes until the onions have softened, creating a sweet base for the sauce.
  2. Add Garlic and Tomatoes: Stir in the minced garlic and halved cherry tomatoes, cooking briefly to release their flavors.
  3. Season and Simmer: Add the dried oregano, Italian seasoning, thyme, and tomato paste. Pour in the vegetable broth or water, then simmer the mixture for 7-8 minutes. Use the back of a spoon to gently break down the tomatoes into a saucy consistency.
  4. Melt Cream Cheese and Coat Gnocchi: Stir in the cream cheese until fully melted and incorporated into the sauce. Add the fresh gnocchi and cook for about 2 minutes, ensuring each piece is coated in the creamy tomato sauce.
  5. Add Cheese and Grill: Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Transfer the mixture to an oven-safe dish if your skillet is not oven-proof. Layer thin slices of mozzarella evenly on top and grill for up to 5 minutes until the cheese is melted and the gnocchi edges turn crispy and golden.
  6. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the grill, scatter fresh basil over the top, and serve immediately for a delicious, comforting meal.

Notes

  • Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened.
  • You can substitute the lighter cream cheese with mascarpone or ricotta for a different creamy texture.
  • Fresh gnocchi cooks quickly; avoid overcooking to maintain its soft, pillowy texture.

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving (approximately 1/4 of recipe)
  • Calories: 380 kcal
  • Sugar: 6 g
  • Sodium: 450 mg
  • Fat: 14 g
  • Saturated Fat: 7 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 6 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 48 g
  • Fiber: 4 g
  • Protein: 12 g
  • Cholesterol: 20 mg