30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata

This 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata is a luscious, garlicky pasta dish made with juicy cherry tomatoes, pillowy potato gnocchi, and rich burrata cheese. It’s quick enough for a weeknight yet elegant enough for guests.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ready in just 30 minutes

• Rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor

• Uses only 7 main ingredients

• Perfect for both weeknight dinners and special occasions

• Customizable with protein or veggies

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil

• 6 to 8 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly crushed

• 2 pints cherry tomatoes

• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)

• 1 teaspoon kosher salt

• 1/2 teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper

• 1/2 cup heavy cream

• 2 (16 oz) packages potato gnocchi

• 2 (4 oz) balls fresh burrata cheese

• 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced or torn

Directions

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.

2. In a large skillet over medium-low, heat olive oil. Add garlic and cook for about 2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Increase heat to medium and add cherry tomatoes. Cook, stirring occasionally, for 10–12 minutes until tomatoes burst and become jammy. Add red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.

4. Stir in heavy cream and reduce heat to medium-low.

5. Cook gnocchi according to package directions. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta water and drain the rest.

6. Add the gnocchi and reserved water to the skillet. Stir continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy.

7. Add most of the basil and stir to combine.

8. Break the burrata into pieces and scatter over the gnocchi. Garnish with remaining basil and serve.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 6

• Prep Time: 10 minutes

• Cook Time: 20 minutes

• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Protein: Include grilled chicken, sautéed shrimp, or meatballs

• Gluten-Free: Use chickpea or cauliflower gnocchi

• Extra Veggies: Add spinach, mushrooms, or fennel for extra nutrition

• Make it Spicy: Increase red pepper flakes or add Calabrian chilis

Storage/Reheating

• Store: Refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 4 days

• Reheat: Warm gently on the stove or in the microwave. Add a splash of broth or water to refresh the sauce

• Freeze: Store (without burrata) in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating

• Note: For best flavor and texture, add fresh burrata after reheating

FAQs

What is gnocchi made of?

Gnocchi is an Italian pasta made from potatoes, flour, and sometimes eggs. It’s soft and chewy, perfect for creamy sauces.

Is gnocchi healthier than pasta?

Gnocchi is often slightly higher in carbs and calories than pasta due to the potato base. However, it’s a satisfying and comforting option.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well in this recipe—no need to thaw before cooking.

What is burrata cheese?

Burrata is a fresh Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. It’s soft, rich, and melts beautifully over warm dishes.

Can I substitute burrata?

Yes, you can use fresh mozzarella or a dollop of ricotta for a similar creamy effect.

How can I make this dairy-free?

Substitute the cream with a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream or full-fat coconut milk, and skip or replace the burrata with a vegan cheese.

What tomatoes work best?

Cherry tomatoes are ideal because they burst easily and create a naturally sweet sauce. Grape tomatoes or chopped Roma tomatoes can also be used.

Can I add greens to the dish?

Absolutely. Baby spinach or arugula wilt beautifully into the hot sauce for added nutrients.

What if my sauce is too thick?

Add a bit more reserved pasta water or a splash of broth to loosen it to your desired consistency.

Is this good for meal prep?

Yes, but for best results, store the sauce and gnocchi separately and add fresh burrata when reheating.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata is a crowd-pleasing comfort dish that combines classic Italian flavors with weeknight convenience. With its rich tomato garlic sauce, silky burrata, and satisfying gnocchi, it’s bound to become a go-to in your recipe rotation.