Name: 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil; 6 to 8 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly crushed; 2 pints cherry tomatoes; 1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes (optional); 1 tsp. kosher salt; 1/2 tsp. freshly cracked black pepper; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 2 (16-oz. packages) potato gnocchi (I like DeLallo brand); 2 (4-oz.) balls fresh burrata cheese; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced or torn

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When life gets busy, you need a recipe that’s quick, easy, and utterly delicious. Enter 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata, a dish packed with fresh flavors and creamy textures that will satisfy the whole family.

With just a handful of simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for weeknights when you want something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

Let’s dive into how you can whip up this crowd-pleaser in no time!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.
Fresh Ingredients: Cherry tomatoes, garlic, basil, and burrata bring vibrant flavors to the dish.
Comforting and Creamy: The heavy cream and burrata create a luscious sauce that clings to every bite of gnocchi.
Customizable: Add your favorite protein or veggies to make it your own.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious dish:

1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
6 to 8 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly crushed
2 pints cherry tomatoes
1/2 tsp. red pepper flakes (optional)
1 tsp. kosher salt
1/2 tsp. freshly cracked black pepper
1/2 cup heavy cream
2 (16-oz.) packages potato gnocchi (DeLallo brand is recommended)
2 (4-oz.) balls fresh burrata cheese
1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced or torn

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare Your Ingredients

Start by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. While waiting for the water to heat, gather all your ingredients to streamline the cooking process.

2. Cook the Garlic and Tomatoes

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-low heat. Add the lightly crushed garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Be careful not to burn the garlic—it should be golden and aromatic.

Increase the heat to medium and add the cherry tomatoes. Cook them for about 10 to 12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until most of the tomatoes break down into a jammy consistency. If the garlic starts to brown too much, reduce the heat slightly. Season with red pepper flakes (if using), kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper.

3. Make the Creamy Sauce

Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. This will transform the tomato mixture into a rich, creamy sauce that coats the gnocchi beautifully.

4. Cook the Gnocchi

Once the water comes to a boil, add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions until al dente. Reserve about 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water before draining the rest.

5. Combine Everything

Transfer the cooked gnocchi and reserved pasta water to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss everything together continuously for about 2 minutes until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy. Stir in most of the fresh basil, saving some for garnish.

6. Add Burrata and Serve

Break the burrata balls into pieces and scatter them over the gnocchi. Remove the skillet from heat and let the residual warmth soften the burrata slightly—it’s best not to heat burrata directly as it can lose its creamy texture. Garnish with the remaining basil and serve immediately.

Tips for Success

Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly—usually in just a few minutes—so keep an eye on it to prevent it from becoming mushy.
Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh cherry tomatoes, basil, and burrata make all the difference in flavor and texture.
Reserve Pasta Water: The starchy pasta water helps thicken the sauce and bind it to the gnocchi. Don’t skip this step!
Customize It: Want to add protein? Try grilled chicken or seared beef strips as a topping for an extra hearty meal.

FAQs

Can I Make This Dish Ahead of Time?

This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but you can store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, warm it gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, but avoid reheating the burrata as it’s best added fresh after warming the dish.

Can I Freeze It?

Yes! You can freeze leftovers (without burrata) in an airtight freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. Add fresh burrata after reheating for best results.

Can I Use Store-Bought Gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe and saves time. Look for high-quality brands like DeLallo for a better texture and flavor.

What Can I Use Instead of Heavy Cream?

If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based alternative like coconut cream or cashew cream. Keep in mind that this may slightly alter the flavor and texture of the sauce.

Can I Add Vegetables or Protein?

Yes! Feel free to customize this dish by adding sautéed spinach, roasted red peppers, or even grilled beef strips for added protein and flavor.

Final Thoughts

This 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata is everything you want in a weeknight dinner—fast, easy, and bursting with flavor! The creamy tomato sauce paired with pillowy gnocchi and fresh burrata is pure comfort food at its finest. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to impress without requiring hours in the kitchen.

So grab your ingredients and get cooking—this delicious meal is just 30 minutes away!