Creamy Tomato & Basil Gnocchi Skillet: A Quick Weeknight Wonder
Imagine pillowy soft gnocchi swimming in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce, brightened by the fresh, fragrant aroma of basil. This Creamy Tomato & Basil Gnocchi Skillet is a comforting and satisfying meal that comes together with surprising ease, making it perfect for a quick and flavorful weeknight dinner. The combination of rich tomato, velvety cream, and herbaceous basil creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. It's the kind of dish that's both impressive and effortlessly achievable, perfect for those nights when you want something delicious without the fuss.
A Simple Symphony of Flavor
This recipe is all about simplicity and maximizing flavor. We start with a base of sautéed garlic, which provides a fragrant foundation for the creamy tomato sauce. The addition of fresh basil adds a bright, herbaceous note that perfectly complements the richness of the tomatoes and cream. The gnocchi themselves are wonderfully soft and pillowy, providing the perfect vehicle for the delicious sauce. It’s a testament to the fact that sometimes, the simplest dishes offer the most profound satisfaction. This recipe is perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious, comforting, and ready in minutes. The entire dish comes together in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze!
Recipe Details: Creamy Tomato & Basil Gnocchi Skillet
| Prep Time | 10 minutes |
|---|---|
| Cook Time | 20 minutes |
| Servings | 4 |
Ingredients:
- 500g (1 lb) store-bought gnocchi
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (400g) can crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) and sauté for 1 minute, or until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Gently stir in the gnocchi.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until gnocchi are tender and heated through. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
- Stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Simmer for another 2-3 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
- Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil.
- Serve immediately, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese.
Expert Tips & Variations:
- Vegetarian Option: Add sautéed vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini along with the garlic.
- Cream Substitutes: Substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version or a dairy-free alternative.
- Flavor Boost: Add a tablespoon of tomato paste to enhance the tomato flavor.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving):
Approximately 450 calories, 15g protein, 60g carbohydrates, 20g fat.
Serving Suggestion:
Serve with a side salad and crusty bread for dipping. A crisp Pinot Grigio would pair beautifully with this dish.
For more quick and easy weeknight dinner ideas, be sure to explore the many other delicious recipes available on Flavor Trail Recipes. We constantly update our blog with fresh, flavorful recipes designed to inspire your culinary adventures. This recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight!
Enjoy your Creamy Tomato & Basil Gnocchi Skillet! Share your creations with us using #gnocchi, #creamytomatosauce, #basil, #quickweeknightmeal, and #easyrecipe. We love to see your culinary successes!