Name: Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard; 3–4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning; 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes with juices; 1 cup heavy/whipping cream; 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi; 1 small handful fresh basil, torn or chopped; Salt & pepper, to taste; Freshly grated parmesan cheese (optional), to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 7 reviews

There is something truly magical about a dish that combines comfort, ease, and full-bodied flavor all in one skillet, and this Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe hits every mark perfectly. Imagine tender potato gnocchi bathed in a luscious, velvety tomato cream sauce infused with garlic, mustard, and fresh basil—ready in just 25 minutes. It’s a celebration of simple ingredients coming together to create a rich and satisfying meal that feels both indulgent and approachable. Whether you’re after a quick weeknight dinner or something to impress without fuss, this recipe is an absolute winner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In a shiny silver pan on a white marbled surface, there is one layer of small white chopped onions spread across the bottom. On top of the onions in the center, there are three small piles of light yellow paste and two small piles of fine, light beige powder sitting close together. The pan handle extends out towards the bottom right corner. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Getting the ingredients right is the key to nailing this recipe. Each component plays a crucial role, from building the base flavors to enriching the creamy sauce and giving the gnocchi their delightful texture and aroma.

Olive oil: Provides a fragrant, silky foundation to sauté the aromatics and adds a subtle fruity note.
Onion: A finely chopped half onion layers in sweetness and depth as it softens to golden perfection.
Dijon mustard: Adds a sharp, tangy kick that perfectly balances the richness of the cream.
Garlic: Freshly minced for that unmistakable aromatic punch that elevates every bite.
Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the sauce with classic Mediterranean warmth.
Diced tomatoes with juices: Bring a natural acidity and vibrant color, making the sauce bright and fresh.
Heavy/whipping cream: The source of that dreamy, luscious texture which makes this dish uniquely comforting.
Uncooked potato gnocchi: Soft pillows of potato that soak up the sauce and create a wonderfully tender base.
Fresh basil: Torn or chopped to bring a burst of fragrant herbaceousness just before serving.
Salt & pepper: Essential seasoning that enhances all the flavors in harmony.
Parmesan cheese (optional): A final sprinkle adds savory, nutty complexity and a creamy finish.

How to Make Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Onions

Start by heating the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onions and let them cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and turn a lovely light golden hue. This step unlocks the natural sweetness and forms the flavorful base for the sauce.

Step 2: Build Flavor with Mustard, Garlic, and Herbs

Next, stir in the Dijon mustard, minced garlic, and Italian seasoning. Cook for about one minute while stirring continuously so that the mustard melds into the oil and the garlic releases its fragrant oils without burning. This quick step layers in complexity and warmth.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes, Cream, and Gnocchi

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, followed by the heavy cream and uncooked gnocchi. Bring this mixture to a gentle bubble, then reduce the heat to medium and cover the skillet. Let everything cook together for 5 minutes so the gnocchi can absorb the creamy tomato goodness and become tender.

Step 4: Finish with Basil and Seasoning

Remove the lid, stir well to combine, and toss in the fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let the sauce simmer uncovered for another 2 to 3 minutes, allowing it to thicken slightly and for the flavors to fully meld.

Step 5: Add Parmesan and Serve

Finally, stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese if you like, or sprinkle it over each serving. This adds a rich umami finish that complements the creamy tomato base beautifully. Serve immediately to enjoy the gnocchi at its tender, saucy best.

How to Serve Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe

A white bowl filled with soft, plump gnocchi covered in a creamy light orange sauce with small pieces of pinkish red tomatoes and green herbs mixed in. The dish is topped with a layer of finely grated white cheese that lightly covers the gnocchi and sauce, adding a fluffy texture. Some black pepper dots are scattered across the surface, adding contrast. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, highlighting the colors of the food. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To take your Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe to the next level, consider garnishing with a few fresh basil leaves or a light drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a subtle heat, while a dusting of freshly cracked black pepper gives a gentle pep to every forkful.

Side Dishes

This dish stands strong on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with balsamic vinegar for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or crusty artisan bread also complements the creamy textures perfectly, allowing you to mop up every last bit of that delicious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the creamy tomato gnocchi in rustic shallow bowls and garnish with edible flowers or microgreens for a restaurant-style touch. Alternatively, turn it into a hearty baked dish by transferring to a gratin dish, topping with extra Parmesan, and broiling briefly until golden and bubbly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce will thicken as it cools, so before reheating, add a splash of cream or milk to loosen it and bring back that silky texture.

Freezing

You can freeze the Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe, but keep in mind that gnocchi can sometimes become a little softer after freezing. To freeze, place cooled gnocchi and sauce in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stovetop.

Reheating

Reheat your creamy tomato gnocchi gently in a skillet over medium-low heat. Stir frequently, adding a splash of cream or water if the sauce appears too thick. Microwave reheating works too, but be sure to cover and stir halfway through for even warming without drying out the gnocchi.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought fresh or frozen potato gnocchi work wonderfully. Just make sure to check packaging instructions if frozen and adjust cooking time slightly as needed.

Is it possible to make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or a cashew cream for a dairy-free version. Keep in mind that the flavor and texture will vary slightly but remain deliciously creamy.

What can I substitute if I don’t have Dijon mustard?

If you don’t have Dijon mustard, a little yellow mustard or whole grain mustard can work as alternatives, though Dijon offers the mildest and creamiest tang specific to this recipe.

Can I add protein to this dish?

Definitely! Adding cooked shredded chicken, crispy pancetta, or sautéed mushrooms makes this dish heartier while complementing the creamy tomato sauce beautifully.

How do I know when the gnocchi is perfectly cooked?

The gnocchi is done when it becomes tender and soft but still holds its shape. After cooking covered for 5 minutes, the pieces should feel light and pillowy when pierced with a fork.

Final Thoughts

There is truly nothing like the cozy indulgence of this Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe. It’s a wonderful reminder that great food doesn’t need to be complicated—just fresh ingredients and a little love. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or yourself, this recipe is destined to become one of those reliable, cherished go-tos that makes weeknights tastier and weekends cozier. So grab your skillet, and get ready to dive into a bowl of silky, comforting goodness that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need