Name: 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 (16-oz.) packages potato gnocchi (DeLallo brand recommended); 2 (4-oz.) balls fresh burrata cheese; 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 6 to 8 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly crushed; 2 pints cherry tomatoes; 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tsp. kosher salt; 1/2 tsp. freshly cracked black pepper; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced or torn (plus extra for garnish)

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Introduction

This 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata is a luscious and comforting dish that combines tender gnocchi with a rich, creamy tomato sauce. Fresh burrata cheese and fragrant basil bring a delightful, fresh finish. It’s simple enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress guests.

This image shows a close-up of a white pot filled with soft gnocchi coated in a creamy orange sauce, mixed with cherry tomatoes in red and orange hues. There are dollops of white ricotta cheese spread on top, lightly sprinkled with cracked black pepper. Fresh green basil leaves, both whole and sliced thinly, are scattered over the gnocchi and cheese, adding a fresh color contrast. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
6 to 8 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly crushed
2 pints cherry tomatoes
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 (16-oz.) packages potato gnocchi (such as DeLallo brand)
2 (4-oz.) balls fresh burrata cheese
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced or torn

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Step 2: Increase heat to medium and add cherry tomatoes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until most tomatoes break down and become jammy, about 10 to 12 minutes. If garlic begins to burn, reduce heat to medium-low. Season with red pepper flakes (if using), kosher salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream.
Step 3: Once the water boils, add gnocchi and cook according to package directions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the gnocchi.
Step 4: Transfer cooked gnocchi and reserved pasta water to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 2 minutes. Stir in most of the fresh basil, reserving some for garnish.
Step 5: Break burrata balls into pieces and distribute evenly over the pasta. Remove skillet from heat. Garnish with reserved basil and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a spicier kick, increase the red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, but it may be less rich and creamy.
If burrata is unavailable, fresh mozzarella or ricotta makes a good alternative.
To add more texture, sprinkle toasted pine nuts or breadcrumbs on top before serving.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When reheating, warm gently in a skillet over low heat to prevent the cream from separating. Burrata is best added fresh when serving rather than reheated.

How to Serve

A white bowl filled with soft, golden-yellow gnocchi mixed with vibrant roasted cherry tomatoes that are bright red-orange. There are fresh green basil leaves scattered on top, adding a pop of color. Small dollops of creamy white cheese sit among the gnocchi, lightly sprinkled with black pepper and red chili flakes. The bowl is resting on a green-speckled plate with a spoon inside, and near the bowl there is a small wooden cup holding crushed red pepper flakes. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well and can be cooked directly from frozen following package instructions. Just ensure it is drained well before tossing with the sauce.

How do I know when the gnocchi is done?

Gnocchi are done when they float to the surface of boiling water, usually within 2 to 3 minutes. Then cook them for an additional 30 seconds before removing to ensure they are cooked through.