30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata is the ultimate balance of comfort and elegance. It delivers pillowy gnocchi coated in a luscious tomato cream sauce, finished with creamy burrata and fresh basil. Even better, it comes together in half an hour, which makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
Although this dish feels restaurant-worthy, it relies on just a handful of fresh ingredients. Because the tomatoes cook down into a jammy sauce and the cream softens their acidity, every bite tastes rich yet balanced. Once you break into the burrata and let it melt into the sauce, the whole skillet transforms into something irresistible.
The first time I made 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata, I needed a dinner that felt special without requiring hours in the kitchen. I had cherry tomatoes that needed using and two packages of gnocchi in the pantry. As the garlic sizzled in olive oil and the tomatoes burst open, the kitchen filled with the kind of aroma that makes everyone wander in to ask what's cooking. When I spooned burrata over the top and watched it slowly melt into the sauce, I knew this would become a repeat favorite. Now it's my go-to when I want something cozy, vibrant, and impressive in very little time.
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-low. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
- Add cherry tomatoes and cook until they burst and become jammy. Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Stir in heavy cream and reduce heat to medium-low.
- Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Reserve 1/2 cup pasta water and drain.
- Add gnocchi and reserved pasta water to skillet. Toss until sauce is glossy. Stir in basil, top with burrata, and serve.
Nutrition
Notes
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Let us know how it was!Why You'll Love 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata
Quick Enough for Weeknights
Because this recipe relies on store-bought gnocchi, you skip complicated prep. Gnocchi cook in just a few minutes, which means the sauce becomes the star.
While the pasta water comes to a boil, you build the sauce in one skillet. Then, once the gnocchi are tender, you toss everything together until glossy and thickened. Therefore, the timing works seamlessly.
Even better, cleanup stays minimal since you only need one pot and one skillet.
Simple Ingredients, Big Flavor
30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata uses fresh, straightforward ingredients:
- Extra-virgin olive oil
- Garlic
- Cherry tomatoes
- Heavy cream
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Kosher salt and black pepper
- Potato gnocchi
- Burrata cheese
- Fresh basil
Although the list looks simple, each ingredient plays a crucial role. Olive oil carries flavor. Garlic builds depth. Tomatoes break down into a naturally sweet sauce. Cream smooths and enriches. Burrata adds creamy decadence. Finally, basil brightens the entire dish.
Together, they create bold flavor without complicated steps.
How to Make 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata
Step 1: Build the Tomato Cream Sauce
First, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add lightly crushed garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn them.
Next, increase the heat to medium and add cherry tomatoes. Cook for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the tomatoes burst and become jammy. If the garlic starts browning too quickly, reduce the heat slightly.
Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Then stir in heavy cream and reduce heat to medium-low.
The sauce should look silky and lightly thickened.
Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi
Once the water boils, add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until al dente. They typically float to the surface when done.
Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water before draining.
Step 3: Combine and Finish
Transfer the cooked gnocchi and reserved pasta water directly into the skillet with the sauce. Toss continuously for about 2 minutes until the sauce becomes glossy and clings to the gnocchi.
Stir in most of the fresh basil, reserving some for garnish.
Finally, tear the burrata into pieces and distribute evenly over the skillet. Remove from heat and garnish with remaining basil.
Serve immediately while the burrata is soft and creamy.
Tips for Perfect 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata
Use Plenty of Salt
Tomatoes need adequate seasoning to shine. Therefore, taste the sauce before adding gnocchi and adjust salt as needed. Proper seasoning transforms the dish from good to exceptional.
Don't Skip the Pasta Water
The reserved pasta water helps emulsify the sauce. Because it contains starch, it binds the cream and tomato juices into a silky coating.
Add just enough to achieve a glossy texture without thinning the sauce too much.
Customize to Your Preference
Although 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata tastes incredible as written, you can adjust it easily.
Add sautéed spinach for extra greens. Stir in mushrooms or fennel for depth. Include cooked chicken, shrimp, or meatballs for added protein. If you prefer heat, increase the red pepper flakes.
You can even swap traditional potato gnocchi for chickpea or cauliflower versions if you need a gluten-free option.
Serving Suggestions
Pair with a Crisp Salad
Because this dish leans rich, balance it with a fresh green salad. Peppery arugula or mixed greens dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette work beautifully.
The acidity from the salad complements the creamy sauce.
Add Crusty Bread
A warm baguette or rustic sourdough makes the perfect companion. It allows you to soak up every bit of tomato cream sauce.
Since the sauce stays indulgent, simple sides work best.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
When reheating, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce as needed.
For best results, avoid reheating the burrata. Instead, add fresh burrata after warming the gnocchi.
You can freeze the dish without burrata for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is gnocchi made of?
Traditional gnocchi consist of potatoes, flour, and sometimes egg.
2. Can I make this dairy-free?
You can substitute a dairy-free cream alternative and skip the burrata, though flavor will change.
3. Is gnocchi healthier than pasta?
It depends on portion size and ingredients. Both can fit into a balanced diet.
4. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of cherry tomatoes?
Yes, but fresh cherry tomatoes create a sweeter, brighter sauce.
5. How do I know when the gnocchi are done?
They typically float to the surface of boiling water when fully cooked.
Conclusion
30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata proves that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavor. With jammy tomatoes, silky cream, tender gnocchi, and rich burrata, this dish satisfies comfort cravings while remaining elegant.
Because it comes together quickly and uses minimal equipment, it fits seamlessly into busy schedules. Yet it still feels impressive enough for entertaining.
Once you make 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata, you'll keep it in regular rotation for both casual dinners and special gatherings alike.
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