This easy gnocchi with tomato sauce recipe is a quick and delicious meal, perfect for busy weeknights. It features soft, pillowy potato gnocchi cooked in a flavorful tomato sauce made with diced tomatoes, garlic, Italian seasoning, and a splash of chicken broth. Topped with melted mozzarella, parmesan, and fresh basil, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 tablespoon butter
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1/4 cup chicken broth or white wine
1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Small handful of fresh basil, torn or sliced
Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once the butter has melted, add the minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, tomato paste, chicken broth (or white wine), and Italian seasoning. Mix well.
Add the uncooked gnocchi to the skillet and cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are cooked through. The sauce will thicken as the gnocchi releases its starch.
Taste the gnocchi to ensure it’s fully cooked. Stir in the shredded mozzarella, grated parmesan, and fresh basil until the cheese has melted.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve immediately.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: With minimal ingredients and just a few steps, this gnocchi recipe is perfect for a busy weeknight dinner.
Comforting: The soft gnocchi combined with a rich tomato sauce creates a satisfying meal that feels cozy and homemade.
Cheesy Goodness: The mozzarella and parmesan add creamy, cheesy layers that make this dish irresistible.
Customizable: You can easily tweak the seasoning and add extras to make this dish your own.

Tips

Cook the Gnocchi Gently: Stir the gnocchi occasionally while it cooks in the sauce to prevent it from sticking to the pan.
Thicken the Sauce: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can reduce the chicken broth or wine slightly, or simmer the sauce longer before adding the gnocchi.
Use Fresh Basil: Fresh basil adds a fragrant, vibrant flavor to the dish, but if you don’t have fresh, dried basil can be used as a substitute.

Variations and Substitutions

Protein: Add grilled chicken, sausage, or ground beef to make this a heartier meal.
Vegetarian: Add vegetables like spinach, zucchini, or mushrooms to the sauce for added flavor and nutrition.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi to make this recipe suitable for those with dietary restrictions.
Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to give the sauce a little heat.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. Just make sure to cook it according to the package instructions before adding it to the sauce.

Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the tomato sauce can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the sauce before adding the gnocchi.

What other cheeses can I use?
You can substitute mozzarella with provolone or fontina, and Parmesan with Pecorino Romano for a slightly different flavor.

Serving and Suggestions

Side Dish: Pair with a simple green salad or garlic bread to complete the meal.
Wine Pairing: Serve with a light white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc to complement the tomato sauce.
Garnish: Add extra fresh basil or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for additional flavor and color.