Gnocchi with Tomato Sauce
There’s something undeniably comforting about a bowl of gnocchi with tomato sauce. This dish brings together pillowy potato dumplings and a rich, flavorful tomato sauce, creating a meal that feels both indulgent and wholesome. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or simply enjoy a cozy night in, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Easy to prepare and bursting with flavor, gnocchi with tomato sauce is not just food; it’s a warm hug on a plate.
Why This Recipe Belongs in Your Rotation
This gnocchi with tomato sauce recipe is the perfect combination of simplicity and deliciousness. The tender gnocchi pairs beautifully with the robust tomato sauce, making it a delightful dish for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. It’s a crowd-pleaser that can be customized to suit your taste—add veggies, switch up the cheese, or spice it up with your favorite herbs. Plus, it comes together in just about 30 minutes, making it a practical choice for those busy evenings when you still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal.
Gather These Ingredients
- 1 lb potato gnocchi – The star of the dish, these fluffy dumplings soak up the sauce beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, divided – Adds richness to the sauce.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the aromatics.
- 3 garlic cloves, minced – Infuses the sauce with a lovely, aromatic flavor.
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped – Provides sweetness and depth.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds a classic Italian flavor.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs that complements the sauce.
- 24 oz crushed tomatoes – The base of the sauce, providing acidity and flavor.
- 1 teaspoon salt – Enhances all the flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper – Adds a touch of heat.
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – Optional, for those who enjoy a little kick.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella – Melts beautifully over the dish.
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese – Adds a nutty, salty finish.
Must-Have Equipment
- Large pot – For boiling the gnocchi.
- Skillet – To prepare the sauce.
- Wooden spoon – For stirring and sautéing the ingredients.
- Measuring cups and spoons – For accurate ingredient measurements.
- Colander – To drain the gnocchi after cooking.
Cooking Gnocchi with Tomato Sauce: The Process
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the potato gnocchi. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. This indicates they are done. Drain the gnocchi in a colander and set aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Make the Tomato Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, followed by the salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce
Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Gently toss to coat the gnocchi in the sauce, ensuring each piece is generously covered. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
Step 5: Add the Cheese
Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Place a lid on the skillet and let the residual heat melt the cheese for about 2-3 minutes.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!
Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, give the gnocchi a gentle stir. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious gnocchi with tomato sauce!
Substitutions by Category
- Cheese: Use vegan mozzarella for a dairy-free option.
- Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can replace dried herbs for a fresher flavor.
- Tomatoes: Substitute crushed tomatoes with diced tomatoes for a chunkier sauce.
- Gnocchi: If you can’t find potato gnocchi, use store-bought or homemade ricotta gnocchi instead.
Don’t Do This
- Don’t overcrowd the skillet when making the sauce; it can lead to uneven cooking.
- Avoid overcooking the gnocchi; they should be tender but not mushy.
- Don’t skip the salt in the water when cooking gnocchi; it enhances the flavor.
- Refrain from using low-quality canned tomatoes; they can affect the overall taste of the sauce.
Keep-It-Fresh Plan
Leftover gnocchi with tomato sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce if needed. You can also freeze the dish for up to 2 months; however, the texture of the gnocchi may change slightly upon thawing. For best results, freeze the sauce and gnocchi separately.
Gnocchi with Tomato Sauce Q&A
Can I make gnocchi from scratch?
Absolutely! Making gnocchi from scratch is a fun and rewarding process. You’ll need potatoes, flour, and an egg to create a traditional dough. However, store-bought gnocchi is a quick and convenient option that still delivers great flavor.
What can I add to the sauce for extra flavor?
Feel free to customize your sauce! Add sautéed mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers for added nutrition and taste. You can also incorporate fresh herbs like basil or thyme for a burst of freshness.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes! This gnocchi with tomato sauce is perfect for meal prep. Cook a large batch and portion it out for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Just remember to store the sauce and gnocchi separately to maintain their textures.
Can I use a different type of pasta?
Definitely! While gnocchi is a delicious choice, you can substitute it with other pasta shapes like penne, rigatoni, or spaghetti. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Save & Share
If you love this gnocchi with tomato sauce recipe as much as I do, be sure to share it with your friends and family! It’s a great way to introduce them to a comforting classic that’s sure to become a favorite in their homes as well. Save this recipe for your next cooking adventure, and don’t forget to snap a picture of your delicious creation!
There’s no denying the joy that comes with a hearty serving of gnocchi with tomato sauce. Whether it’s a quick weeknight meal or a comforting dinner with loved ones, this dish is sure to satisfy. Embrace the simplicity and warmth of this classic, and let each bite take you on a delightful culinary journey. Enjoy your cooking!
Gnocchi with Tomato Sauce
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the potato gnocchi. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface. Drain the gnocchi in a colander and set aside.
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter over medium heat. Once melted and shimmering, add the chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic, dried oregano, and Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, followed by the salt, black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes if using. Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Gently toss to coat the gnocchi in the sauce, ensuring each piece is generously covered. If the sauce seems too thick, you can add a splash of pasta water to loosen it up.
- Remove the skillet from heat and sprinkle the shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese over the top. Place a lid on the skillet and let the residual heat melt the cheese for about 2-3 minutes.
- Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, give the gnocchi a gentle stir. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan or fresh basil if desired. Enjoy your delicious gnocchi with tomato sauce!
Notes
- For a dairy-free option, use vegan mozzarella instead of cheese.
- Feel free to add sautéed vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
