Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi

Name: Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups all-purpose flour; 1 cup mashed potatoes; 1 large egg; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste; Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Comfort Food

I absolutely love making this Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi because it combines fresh, vibrant flavors that bring comfort and joy to my weekend meals. The homemade gnocchi, tender and pillowy, soak up the rich tomato sauce beautifully. Every bite is an explosion of flavor, and the fragrant basil adds a refreshing touch. This dish has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for sharing with family or enjoying on a cozy evening. It truly represents what I adore about Italian cooking: simplicity and quality ingredients.

Created by

Helena Wright

Last updated on 2026-01-13T06:07:07.871Z

When I first decided to make gnocchi from scratch, I was a bit intimidated by the process. However, I quickly discovered that it’s all about using the right ingredients and technique—fluffy potatoes and a gentle hand when mixing the dough are key. This Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi has become a favorite of mine, as it highlights fresh produce and can be made ahead of time. I've even started adding a touch of lemon zest to the sauce for an extra pop of flavor!

Bringing this dish to life has been a delightful journey—picking ripe tomatoes from my garden and harvesting fresh basil always feels rewarding. I've learned that a slow simmer of the sauce allows all those beautiful flavors to meld together. It's truly all about patience and love when preparing this dish, and I'm always excited to share it with loved ones over a cheerful Sunday dinner.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Tender, homemade gnocchi that melt in your mouth
Fresh basil aroma that fills your kitchen
Rich tomato sauce with a hint of garlic for depth

      

Perfecting Your Gnocchi Technique

To achieve that melt-in-your-mouth texture, it's essential to properly handle the gnocchi dough. Over-kneading can lead to dense gnocchi, so aim for a smooth consistency without excessive manipulation. After rolling the dough into ropes, make sure to cut them into uniform pieces—this helps them cook evenly. Using a fork to shape each piece isn't just for aesthetics; it creates ridges that help hold onto the sauce, enhancing every bite.

Cooking the gnocchi in a large pot of boiling salted water is crucial. The salt elevates the flavor of the gnocchi, while the boiling water ensures they cook quickly and don’t become gummy. Watch for the telltale sign—they'll float to the top when they're done, usually around 2-3 minutes. Using a slotted spoon allows you to transfer them without losing any in the water.

Building the Flavorful Sauce

The sauce for this dish is all about freshness and depth of flavor. Using ripe, juicy tomatoes is key; ideally, opt for vine-ripened or heirloom varieties that are in season for the best taste. The garlic should be sautéed just until fragrant, around 1 minute, to avoid bitterness. If you want to add an extra layer of richness, consider a splash of balsamic vinegar or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Basil is not just a garnish; it brightens the sauce and adds a herbal note that complements the tomatoes beautifully. Always add the basil towards the end of cooking to preserve its vibrant color and flavor. For a twist, try mixing in other herbs like thyme or oregano, or even a bay leaf during simmering, but remember to remove the latter before serving.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to make your own gnocchi and sauce:

For the Gnocchi

2 cups all-purpose flour
1 cup mashed potatoes
1 large egg
1/2 teaspoon salt

For the Sauce

2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups fresh tomatoes, chopped
1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese for serving

Make sure to have fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Here’s how to make Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi:

Prepare the Gnocchi Dough

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, egg, and salt. Mix until a dough forms, then knead gently on a floured surface until smooth. Divide the dough into small portions and roll each into a rope. Cut into bite-sized pieces, shaping each gnocchi with a fork.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop the gnocchi into the water, cooking until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Make the Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Stir in chopped tomatoes and simmer for 15 minutes until the sauce thickens. Add chopped basil and season with salt and pepper.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked gnocchi with the sauce in the skillet. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and extra basil.

Enjoy your delicious homemade Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi!

Pro Tips

For an added depth of flavor, consider roasting the tomatoes before adding them to the sauce. You can also use gluten-free flour for a gluten-free version of the gnocchi.

Making Ahead and Storing

You can prepare the gnocchi ahead of time, making this dish perfect for busy weeks. Once formed, allow the gnocchi to dry for about 30 minutes on a floured surface, then freeze them on a sheet tray. Once frozen, transfer them to a zip-top bag for up to three months. When ready to use, cook them straight from frozen, adding an extra minute or two to the cooking time.

The sauce can also be made in advance. After cooking, let it cool completely and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to five days, or freeze for up to three months. Reheat gently on the stove, adding a splash of water if it becomes too thick. This allows you to enjoy the flavors of your Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi without the prep stress on a busy day.

Serving Suggestions

When it comes to serving, this dish pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad dressed in lemon and olive oil to cut through the richness of the sauce. For a touch of luxury, consider serving it alongside some crusty garlic bread or a light cheese plate featuring sharp Pecorino or creamy burrata to balance the meal.

To elevate the presentation, finish the dish with additional fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top. You could even drizzle a bit of high-quality extra virgin olive oil just before serving for added flavor and a beautiful sheen.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, you can save time by using store-bought gnocchi. Just add them to the sauce in the last few minutes of cooking.

→ How can I store the leftover gnocchi?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a bit more sauce.

→ Can I freeze the gnocchi?

Yes, you can freeze uncooked gnocchi. Simply place them on a baking sheet to freeze individually, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.

→ What other sauces can I use with gnocchi?

Gnocchi pairs well with a variety of sauces, such as pesto, cream sauces, or a brown butter sage sauce for a different flavor profile.