Tomato & Marinara

Gnocchi With Tomato And Basil

Name: Gnocchi With Tomato And Basil
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 lbs (900g) Russet potatoes; 1 cup (120g) all-purpose flour; 2 large eggs; 1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese; 1/2 cup (120ml) olive oil; 2 cups (400g) San Marzano tomatoes; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh basil; Salt and pepper to taste; 1/4 cup (60g) chopped fresh parsley

By Marcus Vanover · June 19, 2026 · Tomato & Marinara

Prep30 min

Cook20 min

Total50 min

Serves4

Gnocchi with tomato and basil is one of my favorite Italian-American comfort foods. This dish reminds me of my childhood, when my grandmother used to make it for me on special occasions. The combination of soft gnocchi, flavorful tomato sauce, and fresh basil is simply irresistible.

As a home cook, I've learned to appreciate the simplicity and elegance of this recipe. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. The best part is that it's easy to make from scratch, and the ingredients are readily available at most supermarkets.

In this recipe, I'll guide you through the process of making gnocchi from scratch, cooking them to perfection, and tossing them in a delicious homemade tomato sauce. We'll also talk about the importance of using high-quality ingredients, such as San Marzano tomatoes and fresh basil, to bring out the best flavors in the dish.

Whether you're a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household. So let's get started and make some delicious gnocchi with tomato and basil!

I love serving this dish with a side of garlic bread or a green salad, and it's also perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly evening. The leftovers are great for lunch the next day, and you can even freeze the gnocchi for up to three months.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This recipe is easy to make and requires minimal ingredients
The dish is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering
The combination of gnocchi, tomato sauce, and basil is a classic and delicious combination
The recipe is versatile and can be made with different types of tomatoes and herbs
The leftovers are great for lunch the next day and can be frozen for up to three months
The dish is perfect for a comforting meal on a chilly evening

Why This Recipe Works

The key to making great gnocchi is to use the right type of potatoes and to not overwork the dough. This will help you achieve a light and fluffy texture that's just perfect for soaking up the flavorful tomato sauce.

Another important aspect of this recipe is the tomato sauce. We're using San Marzano tomatoes, which are sweeter and less acidic than other types of tomatoes. This gives the sauce a rich and depthful flavor that complements the gnocchi perfectly.

Finally, the addition of fresh basil adds a bright and refreshing touch to the dish. It's the perfect way to balance out the richness of the tomato sauce and the gnocchi.

By following these simple tips and techniques, you'll be able to create a delicious and authentic Italian-American dish that's sure to impress your friends and family.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make this recipe, you'll need a few simple ingredients, including potatoes, flour, eggs, San Marzano tomatoes, and fresh basil. You'll also need some basic pantry staples, such as salt, pepper, and olive oil.

When shopping for ingredients, be sure to choose high-quality potatoes that are high in starch, such as Russet or Idaho potatoes. This will help you achieve a light and fluffy texture in your gnocchi.

2 lbs (900g) Russet potatoesHigh-starch potatoes are essential for making light and fluffy gnocchi. Look for Russet or Idaho potatoes at your local supermarket.
1 cup (120g) all-purpose flourAll-purpose flour is a good all-around choice for making gnocchi. You can also use '00' flour or caputo flour for a more authentic Italian texture.
2 large eggsEggs help to bind the gnocchi dough together and add moisture to the finished product. Make sure to use fresh eggs for the best results.
1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheeseParmesan cheese adds a salty, nutty flavor to the gnocchi. You can also use other types of cheese, such as mozzarella or ricotta, for a different flavor profile.
1/2 cup (120ml) olive oilOlive oil is used to cook the gnocchi and to make the tomato sauce. Choose a high-quality olive oil with a mild flavor to avoid overpowering the other ingredients.
2 cups (400g) San Marzano tomatoesSan Marzano tomatoes are sweeter and less acidic than other types of tomatoes, making them perfect for this recipe. Look for them at your local Italian market or supermarket.
4 cloves garlic, mincedGarlic adds a pungent flavor to the tomato sauce. Make sure to mince it finely to avoid any bitter flavors.
1/4 cup (15g) chopped fresh basilFresh basil adds a bright and refreshing touch to the dish. Choose fresh, fragrant basil leaves for the best results.
Salt and pepper to tasteSeason the gnocchi and tomato sauce with salt and pepper to taste. You can also add other seasonings, such as dried oregano or thyme, for extra flavor.
1/4 cup (60g) chopped fresh parsleyFresh parsley adds a fresh and herbaceous flavor to the dish. Choose fresh, fragrant parsley leaves for the best results.

Ingredients for Gnocchi With Tomato And Basil

Equipment You’ll Need

Large pot for boiling gnocchiColander or strainer for draining gnocchiCutting board for chopping ingredientsChef's knife for chopping ingredientsLarge skillet for making tomato sauceWooden spoon for stirring tomato sauceInstant-read thermometer for checking gnocchi doneness

How to Make Gnocchi With Tomato And Basil

1
Start by boiling the potatoes in a large pot of salted water until they are tender, about 15-20 minutes.
2
While the potatoes are cooking, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
3
Add the San Marzano tomatoes to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, until the sauce has thickened and reduced slightly, about 20-25 minutes.
4
Once the potatoes are done, drain them and let them cool slightly. Then, peel and mash them in a large bowl using a fork or potato masher.
5
Add the flour, eggs, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper to the bowl with the mashed potatoes. Mix the ingredients together until a dough forms, being careful not to overwork the dough.
6
Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead it gently until it becomes smooth and pliable, about 5-10 minutes.
7
Divide the dough into 4 equal pieces and roll each piece into a long rope. Cut the rope into 1-inch pieces to form the gnocchi.
8
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi until they float to the surface, about 3-5 minutes.
9
Use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi from the water and add them to the tomato sauce. Toss the gnocchi in the sauce until they are well coated, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
10
Stir in the chopped fresh basil and parsley, and serve the gnocchi hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil.
11
Let the gnocchi rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.

Expert Tips

Use high-quality potatoes that are high in starch for the best results.
Don't overwork the gnocchi dough, as this can make the gnocchi dense and heavy.
Use a gentle touch when cooking the gnocchi to avoid breaking them apart.
Add the tomato sauce to the gnocchi while they are still warm, as this will help the sauce to coat the gnocchi evenly.
Season the gnocchi and tomato sauce with salt and pepper to taste, and don't be afraid to add other seasonings or herbs to suit your taste.
Let the gnocchi rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld together and the sauce to thicken slightly.
Consider adding other ingredients to the tomato sauce, such as ground beef or pork, for added flavor and texture.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or ricotta, for a unique flavor profile.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Overworking the gnocchi dough, which can make the gnocchi dense and heavy.
Not using high-quality potatoes that are high in starch, which can result in a less-than-desirable texture.
Not cooking the gnocchi long enough, which can leave them undercooked and unpleasant to eat.
Not seasoning the gnocchi and tomato sauce with salt and pepper to taste, which can result in a bland and unappetizing dish.
Not letting the gnocchi rest for a few minutes before serving, which can cause the sauce to become too thin and the gnocchi to become dry.
Not using fresh and high-quality ingredients, which can result in a less-than-desirable flavor and texture.

Variations and Substitutions

Add other ingredients to the tomato sauce, such as ground beef or pork, for added flavor and texture.
Experiment with different types of cheese, such as mozzarella or ricotta, for a unique flavor profile.
Add other herbs or spices to the tomato sauce, such as dried oregano or thyme, for added depth and complexity.
Use different types of potatoes, such as sweet potatoes or Yukon golds, for a unique flavor and texture.
Add other ingredients to the gnocchi dough, such as chopped herbs or grated cheese, for added flavor and texture.
Use a different type of flour, such as '00' flour or caputo flour, for a more authentic Italian texture.
Serve the gnocchi with a different type of sauce, such as pesto or arrabbiata, for a unique flavor profile.

What to Serve With Gnocchi With Tomato And Basil

Gnocchi with tomato and basil is a delicious and satisfying dish that can be served as a main course or as a side dish. It's perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family.

Consider serving the gnocchi with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a well-rounded meal. You can also add other ingredients to the dish, such as grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables, for added flavor and texture.

Serve the gnocchi with a side of garlic bread for a classic Italian-American combination.Add some grilled chicken or sautéed vegetables to the dish for added flavor and texture.Serve the gnocchi as a main course or as a side dish.Consider serving the gnocchi with a green salad or a side of roasted vegetables for a well-rounded meal.Add some grated Parmesan cheese to the dish for an extra burst of flavor.Serve the gnocchi with a side of marinara sauce or pesto for a unique flavor profile.

Make-Ahead, Storage, Freezing and Reheating

Gnocchi with tomato and basil can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To store the dish, let it cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze.

To reheat the gnocchi, simply cook them in boiling water until they are tender, then toss them in the tomato sauce and serve. You can also reheat the dish in the microwave or oven, but be careful not to overcook the gnocchi.

It's also possible to make the gnocchi ahead of time and store them in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to cook them. Simply cook the gnocchi in boiling water until they are tender, then toss them in the tomato sauce and serve.

When reheating the gnocchi, be sure to check the temperature of the dish to ensure that it is heated to a safe internal temperature. You can use an instant-read thermometer to check the temperature of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of potatoes should I use to make gnocchi?

High-starch potatoes, such as Russet or Idaho potatoes, are the best type of potatoes to use to make gnocchi. These potatoes will yield a light and fluffy texture that is characteristic of gnocchi.

How do I cook gnocchi?

Gnocchi can be cooked in boiling water until they are tender, about 3-5 minutes. They can also be pan-fried or sautéed in a little bit of oil until they are golden brown and crispy.

What is the best way to store gnocchi?

Gnocchi can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. To store the gnocchi, let them cool to room temperature, then transfer them to an airtight container and refrigerate or freeze.

Can I make gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, gnocchi can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator or freezer until you're ready to cook them. Simply cook the gnocchi in boiling water until they are tender, then toss them in the tomato sauce and serve.

What is the best type of tomato to use for the sauce?

San Marzano tomatoes are the best type of tomato to use for the sauce. They are sweeter and less acidic than other types of tomatoes, which makes them perfect for this recipe.

How do I reheat gnocchi?

Gnocchi can be reheated in boiling water until they are tender, then tossed in the tomato sauce and served. They can also be reheated in the microwave or oven, but be careful not to overcook the gnocchi.

Can I add other ingredients to the gnocchi dough?

Yes, you can add other ingredients to the gnocchi dough, such as chopped herbs or grated cheese, for added flavor and texture. Just be sure not to overwork the dough, as this can make the gnocchi dense and heavy.

What is the best way to serve gnocchi?

Gnocchi can be served as a main course or as a side dish. They are perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special gathering with friends and family. Consider serving the gnocchi with a side of garlic bread or a green salad for a well-rounded meal.

The Full Recipe

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