Comfort food meets elegance with this 30-Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata. Soft, pillowy gnocchi are bathed in a luscious tomato cream sauce, then topped with rich, creamy burrata cheese. This dish is perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner but impressive enough to serve guests. Plus, it comes together in just half an hour, making it a go-to for quick yet gourmet meals.
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi:
- 1 lb (16 oz) gnocchi (fresh or store-bought)
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon dried basil (or 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Topping:
- 1 ball of burrata (about 4 oz)
- Fresh basil leaves (for garnish)
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Preparation
1. Cook the Gnocchi
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Add gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.
2. Prepare the Tomato Cream Sauce
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and chopped onion. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, stirring well. Let it simmer for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
- Stir in heavy cream, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Combine the Gnocchi and Sauce
- Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the creamy tomato sauce. Simmer for 2-3 minutes until everything is heated through.
4. Add the Burrata
- Transfer the gnocchi to a serving dish or keep in the skillet for a rustic presentation.
- Place the burrata ball on top of the gnocchi. Break it open slightly to let the creamy center ooze into the dish.
- Garnish with fresh basil leaves and grated Parmesan, if desired.
Variations
- Spinach Gnocchi: Add a handful of fresh spinach to the sauce for extra nutrients and color.
- Meaty Option: Stir in cooked Italian sausage or grilled chicken for added protein.
- Vegan Option: Use plant-based gnocchi and substitute heavy cream with coconut milk and burrata with vegan cheese.
Cooking Notes
- Gnocchi Texture: Pan-fry the gnocchi in a bit of olive oil for a crispy exterior before adding to the sauce for extra texture.
- Tomato Brightness: Add a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of sugar to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette.
- Serve with crusty garlic bread to mop up the creamy tomato sauce.
- A glass of chilled white wine, like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the dish beautifully.
Tips
- Fresh Basil: Use fresh basil for garnish right before serving to preserve its bright flavor.
- Burrata Substitute: If you can’t find burrata, fresh mozzarella or ricotta will work well as a creamy alternative.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to maintain the creamy texture.
Prep Time:
10 minutes
Cooking Time:
20 minutes
Total Time:
30 minutes
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
- Calories: 520
- Protein: 18g
- Carbohydrates: 60g
- Fat: 22g
- Sodium: 780mg
FAQs
1. Can I use homemade gnocchi?
Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi adds a personal touch, but store-bought gnocchi works just as well for a quick meal.
2. How do I store leftover burrata?
Keep burrata in its original liquid in the refrigerator and consume it within 2-3 days for optimal freshness.
3. Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the tomato cream sauce can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it and add fresh cream before serving for the best flavor.
Conclusion
This 30-Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata is a comforting yet elegant meal that’s easy to make and bursting with flavor. Whether it’s a quick family dinner or an impressive dish for guests, it will leave everyone satisfied and asking for seconds.