Simple and Delicious Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe

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Some meals are more than just food—they’re an experience, a moment of bliss you can savor with every bite. Simple and Delicious Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe is one of those dishes. Combining tender, pillowy gnocchi with a rich tomato sauce and creamy burrata, this recipe is a celebration of simplicity and flavor. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion, this meal is bound to become your new favorite.

The Comfort of Gnocchi and Burrata

Imagine a warm bowl of potato gnocchi, perfectly coated in a velvety tomato sauce, topped with pieces of creamy burrata that melt into the dish. It’s comfort food elevated to perfection, combining simple ingredients into a masterpiece.

Ingredients Breakdown

Here’s everything you need to bring this recipe to life:

For the Sauce and Pasta

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Extra-virgin olive oil¼ cupAdds richness and a smooth flavor
Garlic cloves, peeled, crushed6–8Provides aromatic depth
Cherry tomatoes2 pintsForms the base of the sauce, sweet and tangy
Red pepper flakes (optional)½ tspAdds a hint of heat
Kosher salt1 tspEnhances overall flavor
Freshly cracked black pepper½ tspAdds depth and balance
Heavy cream½ cupCreates a creamy, luscious texture
Potato gnocchi2 (16-oz.) packagesThe star of the dish, soft and tender

For Garnish

IngredientQuantityPurpose
Burrata cheese2 (4-oz.) ballsAdds creaminess and indulgence
Fresh basil leaves, sliced½ cupAdds freshness and a burst of flavor

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prep Your Ingredients

  • Gather all your ingredients and bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
  • Slice the garlic and halve the cherry tomatoes for easier cooking.

2. Cook the Garlic

  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
  • Add the crushed garlic and cook for about 2 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent burning.

3. Create the Tomato Sauce

  • Increase the heat to medium and add the cherry tomatoes.
  • Stir occasionally, cooking until the tomatoes break down and become jammy, about 10–12 minutes.
  • Season with red pepper flakes (if using), kosher salt, and black pepper.

4. Add the Cream

  • Reduce the heat to medium-low and gently stir in the heavy cream.
  • Let the sauce simmer while you cook the gnocchi.

5. Cook the Gnocchi

  • Once the water is boiling, add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually about 2–3 minutes.
  • Reserve ½ cup of the pasta cooking water, then drain the remaining water.

6. Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

  • Transfer the cooked gnocchi and reserved pasta water into the skillet with the tomato sauce.
  • Toss continuously over medium heat until the sauce thickens and coats the gnocchi evenly.

7. Add Fresh Basil

  • Stir in most of the fresh basil, reserving a small amount for garnish.

8. Top with Burrata

  • Tear the burrata into pieces and scatter them over the gnocchi.
  • Remove the skillet from heat and allow the burrata to melt slightly into the dish.

9. Serve and Enjoy

  • Garnish with the reserved basil and serve immediately.

Why This Recipe Works

  • Minimal Ingredients, Maximum Flavor: Using high-quality ingredients ensures every bite is packed with flavor.
  • Perfect Texture Combination: The soft gnocchi, creamy burrata, and slightly chunky sauce create a delightful mix of textures.
  • Versatile and Adaptable: This dish can be customized with additional herbs, vegetables, or proteins like shrimp or chicken.

Tips for Success

Selecting the Right Ingredients

  • Cherry Tomatoes: Choose ripe and juicy ones for the sweetest flavor.
  • Gnocchi: Use store-bought for convenience or homemade if you have time.
  • Burrata: Fresh burrata is key—its creamy center elevates the dish.

Cooking Tips

  • Avoid overcrowding the skillet when cooking the sauce to ensure the tomatoes break down evenly.
  • Toss the gnocchi gently to prevent breaking.

Customizing the Recipe

  • Add spinach or arugula for a touch of greens.
  • Swap out heavy cream for a dairy-free alternative if needed.

Nutritional Information

NutrientPer Serving (Approx.)
Calories450
Protein14g
Fat22g
Carbohydrates50g
Fiber4g
Sodium580mg

Variations and Pairings

Make It Vegetarian-Friendly

  • This dish is already vegetarian, but you can easily turn it vegan by using plant-based cream and vegan gnocchi.

Pair It with a Salad

  • A crisp green salad with a lemon vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish perfectly.

Add a Protein Boost

  • Grilled chicken or seared shrimp make excellent additions for a heartier meal.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use canned tomatoes instead of fresh cherry tomatoes?

Yes, but fresh cherry tomatoes offer a sweeter, more vibrant flavor. Use canned San Marzano tomatoes as a substitute if needed.

2. What can I substitute for burrata?

Fresh mozzarella or ricotta are excellent alternatives, though burrata’s creamy texture is unmatched.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce in advance, but cook the gnocchi just before serving for the best texture.

4. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Use gluten-free gnocchi, which is widely available at most grocery stores.

5. Can I add wine to the sauce?

Absolutely! A splash of white wine while cooking the tomatoes adds depth and complexity to the sauce.

6. How do I store leftovers?

Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

The Simple and Delicious Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe brings together rustic Italian flavors in a dish that’s easy to prepare yet feels luxurious. The creamy burrata, sweet tomatoes, and tender gnocchi create a harmonious blend that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

Your Next Culinary Adventure

Ready to experience the magic of this recipe? Gather your ingredients, follow these steps, and treat yourself to a bowl of this heavenly gnocchi. Share it with your loved ones, and let the flavors transport you to the Italian countryside.

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Simple and Delicious Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe


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  • Author: Melany
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Experience a comforting bowl of tender potato gnocchi coated in a rich, velvety tomato sauce and topped with creamy burrata. This Simple and Delicious Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata recipe is the perfect blend of rustic Italian flavors and elegant indulgence.


Ingredients

For the Sauce and Pasta:

  • ¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
  • 68 garlic cloves, peeled and crushed
  • 2 pints cherry tomatoes, halved
  • ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1 tsp kosher salt
  • ½ tsp freshly cracked black pepper
  • ½ cup heavy cream
  • 2 (16-oz.) packages potato gnocchi

For Garnish:

  • 2 (4-oz.) balls burrata cheese
  • ½ cup fresh basil leaves, sliced

Instructions

  • Prep Ingredients:
    • Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Halve the cherry tomatoes and crush the garlic cloves for cooking.
  • Cook the Garlic:
    • Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add crushed garlic and sauté for about 2 minutes until aromatic.
  • Make the Tomato Sauce:
    • Increase heat to medium and add cherry tomatoes to the skillet. Cook for 10–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and release their juices. Season with red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper.
  • Add Cream:
    • Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream. Let the sauce simmer gently while you cook the gnocchi.
  • Cook the Gnocchi:
    • Add gnocchi to the boiling water and cook according to package instructions (usually 2–3 minutes). Reserve ½ cup of pasta water before draining.
  • Combine Gnocchi and Sauce:
    • Transfer cooked gnocchi and reserved pasta water to the skillet. Toss gently over medium heat until the sauce thickens and coats the gnocchi evenly.
  • Add Fresh Basil:
    • Stir in most of the fresh basil, reserving a small amount for garnish.
  • Top with Burrata:
    • Tear burrata into pieces and place them over the gnocchi. Remove skillet from heat and let the burrata melt slightly.
  • Serve:
    • Garnish with remaining basil and serve immediately.

Notes

  • Opt for fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
  • For a vegan version, substitute heavy cream with a plant-based alternative and omit the burrata.
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days and reheat gently.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Sautéed
  • Cuisine: Italian

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