Are you ready for a comforting meal that’s both easy and delicious? In this post, I’ll show you how to make One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll create a rich and creamy dish that packs a flavorful punch. Perfect for busy weeknights, this recipe will have you enjoying a warm bowl of goodness in no time. Let’s dive into this delightful dish!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
– 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
Sauce Components
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 cup heavy cream or coconut milk
Seasoning and Garnish
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1 cup fresh basil, chopped (reserve some for garnish)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, can substitute with nutritional yeast for vegan option)
Gather these ingredients before you start. Each one adds a special touch to your dish. The potato gnocchi gives a soft, pillowy texture. The olive oil brings flavor and helps cook the garlic. Garlic is key for that aromatic base.
Crushed tomatoes create a rich, saucy foundation. Vegetable broth adds depth and flavor. Heavy cream or coconut milk makes it creamy and delightful, perfect for coating the gnocchi.
For seasoning, dried oregano brings an earthy taste. Fresh basil adds brightness and a burst of flavor. Grated Parmesan cheese enhances richness. If you’re vegan, nutritional yeast works well too.
These ingredients work together to create a comforting meal. Prepare them with care for the best results. You will love how they combine in this one pot dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Garlic
Start with a large pot. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add 3 minced garlic cloves to the pot. Sauté for about 1 minute. You want it fragrant, not burnt. Stir it gently as it cooks.
Building the Base
Next, pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and 1 cup of vegetable broth. Stir well to combine the ingredients. Bring the mixture to a simmer. This will create a rich base for your gnocchi.
Cooking the Gnocchi
Now, add 1 pound of potato gnocchi to the pot. Stir the gnocchi into the sauce. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes. You’ll know it’s done when the gnocchi starts to float. This means they are ready to enjoy!
Finishing the Dish
Once the gnocchi is floating, lower the heat. Add 1 cup of heavy cream or coconut milk. Also, add 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, salt, and pepper to taste. Let it simmer gently for another 3 to 5 minutes. The sauce will thicken as it cooks. Finally, stir in 1 cup of chopped fresh basil and 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese, if you like. Mix until the cheese melts. Adjust the seasoning and enjoy your creamy dish!
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Texture
To check if your gnocchi is done, watch for them to float. This means they are ready. If they sink, give them a little more time. Cooking them for about 3-4 minutes usually does the trick. Stir gently to avoid breaking them.
Flavor Enhancements
You can boost the flavor with extra spices. A pinch of red pepper flakes adds heat. Fresh herbs like thyme or parsley also work well. For a zing, squeeze some lemon juice before serving. It brightens the dish and adds freshness.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the creamy gnocchi in deep bowls for a nice look. Top each bowl with fresh basil and a sprinkle of Parmesan. A drizzle of olive oil can make it shine even more. This adds a touch of richness and makes it more inviting.
Variations
Dietary Adaptations
You can make this dish vegan and dairy-free easily. Instead of heavy cream, use coconut milk. It gives a nice creamy texture without dairy. For cheese, swap Parmesan with nutritional yeast. This change adds a cheesy flavor without any animal products.
Ingredient Swaps
Feel free to switch up the veggies in this recipe. Add spinach or kale for extra greens. You can mix in mushrooms for a hearty touch. If you want protein, toss in cooked chicken, shrimp, or beans. Each swap brings a new flavor to the dish.
Seasonal Variations
Use fresh herbs when they are in season. Try adding thyme or parsley for a twist. You can also mix in seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. These additions keep the dish fresh and vibrant. Enjoy the flavors that each season brings!
Storage Info
Leftover Storage
Store your One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge if you plan to eat it within three days. For longer storage, freeze it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. This helps keep the dish fresh and tasty.
Reheating Tips
To reheat, you can use the stove or microwave. If using the stove, add a splash of broth or cream. Heat over low until warm. Stir to keep it creamy. For the microwave, cover the dish and heat in short bursts. Stir in between to ensure even heating.
Best Before Dates
When stored properly, your dish lasts about three days in the fridge. In the freezer, it stays fresh for up to three months. After that, the taste and texture may change. Always check for signs of spoilage before eating.
FAQs
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Cook the gnocchi and sauce as usual. Let it cool before storing it in an airtight container. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. When you are ready to eat, reheat it on the stove over low heat. Add a splash of broth or cream to keep it creamy. Stir often to prevent sticking.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, making this dish gluten-free is easy. Look for gluten-free potato gnocchi at your local store. Many brands offer tasty options. You can also make your gnocchi from scratch using gluten-free flour. This way, everyone can enjoy this creamy delight!
What can I serve with One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi?
This dish pairs well with several sides. A simple green salad adds freshness. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a comforting meal. Roasted veggies or steamed spinach work well too. Feel free to mix and match to find your favorite combo!
This blog post walks you through making One Pot Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi. You learned about the key ingredients, such as potato gnocchi, crushed tomatoes, and garlic. You explored each cooking step for a perfect finish and discovered tips for texture and flavor. Dietary adaptations and storage info make this dish easy to customize and save.
With these details, you can impress anyone with a warm, delicious meal. Enjoy cooking and sharing your new favorite dish!
