Why Make This Recipe
Are you craving a delightful meal that is both quick and comforting? Look no further than this 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata. This dish offers rich flavors, creamy texture, and the delightful pull of fresh burrata. In just half an hour, you can have an impressive meal on your table that feels gourmet but is simple to prepare.
Using fresh ingredients like juicy cherry tomatoes and aromatic garlic, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests. The pillowy gnocchi coats in a luscious sauce that ties in with the creamy burrata and fragrant basil, creating a wonderful balance of flavors.
How to Make 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata
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
- 2 4-oz. balls fresh burrata cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (sliced or torn)
Directions:
Prepare Water: Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. This is critical for cooking the gnocchi properly.
Cook Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the crushed garlic, and cook until it becomes fragrant, around 1-2 minutes. Careful not to burn it!
Add Tomatoes: Increase the heat to medium and add the cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook them until they are soft and start to burst, which should take about 5-7 minutes. The juices from the tomatoes will mix perfectly with the olive oil.
Season: Season your mixture with red pepper flakes (if using), kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Stir well and let it simmer for another minute to combine the flavors.
Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Let the mixture simmer gently so it thickens slightly, about 2-3 minutes.
Cook Gnocchi: While the sauce is simmering, add the gnocchi to the boiling water. Cook them until they float to the top, which will take around 2-3 minutes. When they’re done, reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water, then drain the gnocchi.
Combine: Toss the cooked gnocchi into the skillet with the sauce. Add reserved pasta water a little at a time if you want to thin the sauce to your desired consistency.
Add Burrata and Basil: Gently stir in the torn basil leaves and dollops of fresh burrata cheese. Remove the skillet from heat, allowing the cheese to melt slightly into the sauce.
Serve: Serve the dish immediately. Garnish with a few more fresh basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil for that extra flavor punch.
How to Serve 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata
This dish is best enjoyed fresh and hot right off the stove. You can serve it in warm bowls to keep it cozy. For a little extra indulgence, consider adding a sprinkle of grated parmesan on top and a drizzle of good quality olive oil. A side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad can complement this meal elegantly. Don’t forget to include extra basil leaves as garnish for a pop of freshness.
How to Store 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata
If you have leftovers, they can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to eat, reheat the dish on the stove over medium heat. Add a splash of water or cream to help bring the sauce back to life and prevent it from drying out. Stir well as you heat it to ensure even warming.
Tips to Make 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata
Choose Quality Ingredients: Fresh ingredients make a significant difference in this dish. Opt for ripe cherry tomatoes and quality burrata cheese for the best results.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on the gnocchi while cooking; they only need a brief time in boiling water. Once they float, they are done!
Adjust Spice Levels: If you’re sensitive to heat, you can skip the red pepper flakes altogether or reduce the quantity to your preference.
Make it Vegetarian: This dish is already vegetarian-friendly. You can easily add more veggies, like spinach or zucchini, to bulk it up.
Basil Variations: While fresh basil is recommended, you could also use baby spinach or arugula for a different flavor profile.
Variation
If you would like to give this dish a different twist, consider swapping out the burrata for ricotta or goat cheese, adding earthy flavors. Moreover, you can switch cherry tomatoes for other types, such as diced heirlooms or even roasted tomatoes for a deeper flavor. For a protein boost, cooked chicken, shrimp, or even crispy bacon can be added to the mix.
For a creamier consistency, substitute part of the heavy cream with cream cheese or mascarpone. For a more robust taste, a splash of balsamic vinegar can be added when cooking the sauce.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought gnocchi instead of homemade?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi is convenient and just as delicious for this recipe. It saves time and allows you to enjoy a great meal quicker.
2. What if I can’t find burrata?
If burrata is unavailable, you can substitute it with fresh mozzarella or even ricotta cheese for a creamy texture. Both would work well and enhance the dish’s flavors.
3. Can I freeze leftovers of this dish?
While it is possible to freeze the creamy sauce separately and then combine it with freshly cooked gnocchi when reheating, freezing the entire dish is not recommended. The cream can cause texture changes when thawed.
4. What can I serve with this dish?
This creamy tomato gnocchi pairs well with garlic bread, a green salad, or even charred vegetables for a balanced meal. For something a bit fancier, consider a light, crisp Italian wine to accompany it.
By following this guide, you now have the steps to prepare an outstanding 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata. It’s simple, quick, and irresistibly delicious—perfect for any occasion! Happy cooking!
Print
30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A quick and comforting creamy tomato gnocchi dish topped with fresh burrata and basil.
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
- 2 (4-oz.) balls fresh burrata cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves (sliced or torn)
Instructions
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-low heat and cook garlic until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
- Add cherry tomatoes to the skillet and cook until soft and bursting, about 5-7 minutes.
- Season with red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and black pepper, and let simmer for another minute.
- Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream. Simmer gently for 2-3 minutes until thickened.
- Add gnocchi to boiling water and cook until they float, about 2-3 minutes, then reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- Toss cooked gnocchi into the skillet with the sauce, adding reserved pasta water if needed.
- Gently stir in torn basil leaves and dollops of burrata cheese, then remove from heat.
- Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil and a drizzle of olive oil.
Notes
For a more decadent touch, sprinkle grated parmesan on top and serve with garlic bread.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 400
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 50mg
Keywords: gnocchi, creamy, tomato, burrata, quick meal