15-Minute Tomato Basil Gnocchi: The Ultimate Weeknight Dinner

Are you craving a comforting, flavorful meal but short on time? Look no further than this incredibly quick and easy tomato basil gnocchi recipe! It’s perfect for busy weeknights, lazy weekends, or anytime you need a satisfying dinner on the table in a flash. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal effort, you can create a restaurant-quality dish that the whole family will love.

This recipe centers around the beautiful simplicity of fresh tomatoes, fragrant basil, and pillowy-soft gnocchi. The result is a vibrant and delicious dish that’s both hearty and light. We’ll walk you through each step, from preparing the simple tomato sauce to achieving perfectly cooked gnocchi, ensuring a foolproof and delightful cooking experience. Let’s dive in!

## Why This Recipe Works

* **Speed:** The entire dish comes together in just 15 minutes, making it ideal for busy schedules.
* **Simplicity:** It requires only a few common ingredients, most of which you probably already have in your pantry.
* **Flavor:** The combination of fresh tomatoes, basil, and garlic creates a bright and aromatic sauce that complements the gnocchi perfectly.
* **Customizable:** You can easily adapt this recipe to your preferences by adding vegetables, protein, or different herbs.
* **Comfort Food:** Gnocchi is naturally comforting and satisfying, making it a perfect choice for a cozy meal.

## Ingredients You’ll Need

Before you start cooking, gather the following ingredients:

* **1 pound gnocchi:** Look for pre-made gnocchi in the refrigerated section of your grocery store. Potato gnocchi is the most common and works best for this recipe.
* **1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes:** High-quality crushed tomatoes are the foundation of the sauce. San Marzano tomatoes are a great option if you can find them.
* **2 cloves garlic, minced:** Garlic adds depth and complexity to the sauce.
* **1/4 cup olive oil:** Use good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.
* **1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped:** Fresh basil is essential for the classic tomato basil flavor. Save some for garnishing.
* **1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional):** Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory touch to the dish.
* **Salt and pepper to taste:** Seasoning is key to bringing out the flavors of the ingredients.
* **Pinch of red pepper flakes (optional):** For a touch of heat.

## Equipment You’ll Need

* Large skillet or pot
* Colander
* Measuring cups and spoons
* Cutting board
* Knife

## Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create your delicious tomato basil gnocchi:

**Step 1: Prepare the Garlic and Basil**

* Mince the garlic cloves. Aim for a fine mince to ensure even distribution of flavor in the sauce.
* Chop the fresh basil leaves. You can use a knife or kitchen shears to chop the basil. Reserve a few leaves for garnishing.

**Step 2: Sauté the Garlic**

* Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat.
* Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it will become bitter. Reduce the heat if necessary.

**Step 3: Add the Crushed Tomatoes**

* Pour the can of crushed tomatoes into the skillet with the garlic.
* Stir well to combine the tomatoes and garlic.
* Add a pinch of red pepper flakes (if using) for a touch of heat.

**Step 4: Simmer the Sauce**

* Bring the tomato sauce to a simmer.
* Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. This will allow the flavors to meld together.
* Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount of salt and pepper, and then adjust to your liking.

**Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi**

* While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
* Add the gnocchi to the boiling water.
* Cook the gnocchi according to the package directions. Typically, gnocchi is cooked when it floats to the surface of the water. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes.

**Step 6: Drain the Gnocchi**

* Once the gnocchi is cooked, carefully drain it in a colander.
* Do not rinse the gnocchi, as this can wash away some of the starch that helps the sauce adhere to it.

**Step 7: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce**

* Add the drained gnocchi to the skillet with the tomato sauce.
* Gently stir to coat the gnocchi evenly with the sauce.

**Step 8: Add the Basil**

* Stir in the chopped fresh basil leaves. The basil will wilt slightly from the heat of the sauce, releasing its fragrant aroma.

**Step 9: Serve and Garnish**

* Serve the tomato basil gnocchi immediately.
* Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese (if using) and a few fresh basil leaves.

## Tips and Tricks for Perfect Gnocchi

* **Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi:** Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy. Cook it just until it floats to the surface.
* **Salt the Pasta Water Generously:** This will season the gnocchi from the inside out.
* **Use High-Quality Ingredients:** The quality of your ingredients will directly impact the flavor of the dish. Use good-quality crushed tomatoes, olive oil, and fresh basil.
* **Don’t Burn the Garlic:** Burnt garlic will make the sauce bitter. Sauté the garlic over low to medium heat and watch it carefully.
* **Taste and Adjust Seasoning:** Always taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning as needed. Add more salt, pepper, or red pepper flakes to your liking.
* **Garnish Generously:** A generous garnish of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil adds visual appeal and enhances the flavor of the dish.

## Variations and Adaptations

This tomato basil gnocchi recipe is incredibly versatile and can be easily adapted to your preferences. Here are a few variations to try:

* **Add Vegetables:** Sauté some chopped vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or spinach, along with the garlic.
* **Add Protein:** Add cooked Italian sausage, ground beef, or shredded chicken to the sauce for a heartier meal.
* **Use Different Herbs:** Experiment with different herbs, such as oregano, thyme, or rosemary, to create a unique flavor profile.
* **Add Cream:** Stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half to the sauce for a richer, creamier texture.
* **Make it Spicy:** Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce for extra heat.
* **Add Mozzarella:** Top the gnocchi with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake it in the oven until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
* **Pesto Gnocchi:** Substitute the tomato sauce with pesto for a vibrant and flavorful dish.
* **Brown Butter Sage Gnocchi:** Brown butter with sage leaves and toss with cooked gnocchi for a sophisticated and delicious meal.

## Serving Suggestions

Tomato basil gnocchi is a satisfying meal on its own, but it can also be served as a side dish or part of a larger Italian feast. Here are a few serving suggestions:

* **Serve with a side salad:** A simple green salad with a light vinaigrette dressing complements the richness of the gnocchi.
* **Serve with crusty bread:** Crusty bread is perfect for soaking up the delicious tomato sauce.
* **Serve with grilled chicken or fish:** Grilled chicken or fish provides a healthy and protein-rich addition to the meal.
* **Serve as part of a pasta buffet:** Include tomato basil gnocchi as part of a pasta buffet with other pasta dishes, sauces, and toppings.
* **Pair with a glass of wine:** A light-bodied red wine, such as Chianti or Pinot Noir, pairs well with tomato basil gnocchi.

## Storage and Reheating Instructions

**Storage:**

* Store leftover tomato basil gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

**Reheating:**

* **Microwave:** Reheat the gnocchi in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or until heated through. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
* **Skillet:** Reheat the gnocchi in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from sticking.
* **Oven:** Reheat the gnocchi in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes, or until heated through.

## Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

* **Can I use dried basil instead of fresh basil?**

While fresh basil is preferred for its vibrant flavor, you can use dried basil in a pinch. Use about 1 teaspoon of dried basil for every 1/4 cup of fresh basil.

* **Can I use a different type of tomato?**

Yes, you can use different types of tomatoes, such as diced tomatoes, tomato puree, or even fresh tomatoes (peeled and chopped). Adjust the cooking time as needed.

* **Can I make this recipe vegan?**

Yes, you can make this recipe vegan by using vegan gnocchi (check the ingredients list carefully) and omitting the Parmesan cheese or using a vegan Parmesan cheese alternative.

* **Can I freeze this recipe?**

Yes, you can freeze tomato basil gnocchi. Let it cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

* **My gnocchi is sticking together. What can I do?**

Make sure you’re using enough water when cooking the gnocchi. Also, avoid overcrowding the pot. If the gnocchi is still sticking, try adding a tablespoon of olive oil to the water.

## Conclusion

This quick and easy tomato basil gnocchi recipe is a lifesaver for busy weeknights. It’s packed with flavor, requires minimal effort, and can be easily customized to your liking. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So, gather your ingredients, follow the simple steps, and enjoy a delicious and comforting meal in just 15 minutes!

Enjoy your homemade gnocchi! Bon appétit! Remember to share your creations and variations in the comments below – we love to see what you come up with!