Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi

Name: Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups potato (mashed); 1 cup all-purpose flour; 1 large egg; Salt to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion (chopped); 3 cloves garlic (minced); 4 cups fresh tomatoes (chopped); 1 cup fresh basil leaves; Salt and pepper to taste; Parmesan cheese for serving

Highlighted under: Everyday World Food Ideas

As a lover of Italian cuisine, I often find myself craving the comforting embrace of gnocchi. This Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi recipe became my go-to for weekend dinners with family. The moment you sink your fork into these pillowy dumplings, you’ll understand why they’ve captured my heart. The vibrant tomato sauce, infused with fresh basil, adds a fragrant touch that elevates each bite. Cooking gnocchi from scratch might seem daunting, but trust me—the process is more rewarding than you can imagine, and the results are nothing short of divine.

Created by

Cecilia Grant

Last updated on 2026-01-12T00:13:35.337Z

I'll never forget the first time I made gnocchi from scratch. It was a Sunday afternoon filled with laughter and a hint of flour on my nose. As I mixed the dough, the aroma of fresh basil filled the kitchen, making me feel like I was transported straight to a rustic Italian villa. The method of gently boiling the gnocchi before tossing them in the sauce makes all the difference, allowing each piece to absorb that delicious flavor.

One important tip I’ve learned is to only knead the dough as much as necessary; overworking it can lead to dense gnocchi. Once you've formed the dough, roll it into ropes and cut them into bite-sized pieces. The simple yet divine pairing of fresh tomatoes with basil creates a sauce that complements the gnocchi perfectly, making it an instant favorite.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Deliciously soft and fluffy gnocchi that melts in your mouth
Vibrant, fresh tomato sauce bursting with flavor
A crowd-pleaser perfect for family gatherings or special occasions

      

The Art of Gnocchi Making

Crafting the perfect gnocchi starts with the right potato. I recommend using starchy varieties, like Russets, which yield a fluffier texture. After peeling and boiling your potatoes, mash them until smooth—tiny lumps can make for uneven dough, so aim for a consistency that’s almost silky. Allowing the mashed potatoes to cool completely before mixing in the flour and egg is crucial. This prevents the flour from absorbing too much moisture, ensuring your gnocchi remains light and tender.

When shaping the gnocchi, be gentle. Overworking the dough can lead to dense dumplings. After rolling the ropes and cutting them, use a fork to create ridges—this is not just for looks! The ridges help hold onto the sauce, ensuring each bite is flavorful. If you're struggling to maintain a soft texture while shaping, consider lightly flouring your hands and the surface, which can help prevent sticking while keeping the gnocchi airy.

Perfecting the Tomato Basil Sauce

Using fresh tomatoes in this sauce is key for achieving that vibrant flavor. Look for ripe, juicy varieties like Roma or on-the-vine tomatoes. If they seem a bit firm, a quick dip in boiling water followed by an ice bath can make peeling easier. When sautéing the onion and garlic, be watchful; you want them golden and fragrant but not burned, which can introduce bitterness. A medium heat is ideal—around 350°F (175°C) for even cooking.

Basil plays a starring role, giving the sauce its aromatic quality. I suggest adding the basil towards the end of the cooking process; this preserves its bright color and fragrance. If you prefer a smoother sauce, use an immersion blender once all ingredients are combined; just pulse a few times to maintain some texture while unifying the flavors.

Ingredients

Before you start making this delightful Sunday dish, gather your ingredients to ensure a smooth cooking experience.

Gnocchi Ingredients

2 cups potato (mashed)
1 cup all-purpose flour
1 large egg
Salt to taste

Tomato Basil Sauce Ingredients

2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion (chopped)
3 cloves garlic (minced)
4 cups fresh tomatoes (chopped)
1 cup fresh basil leaves
Salt and pepper to taste
Parmesan cheese for serving

Once you have all your ingredients, you're ready to make some delicious gnocchi!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to create a mouthwatering Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi.

Make the Gnocchi Dough

In a large bowl, combine the mashed potatoes, flour, egg, and salt. Mix until a dough forms, being careful not to over-knead.

Shape the Gnocchi

On a floured surface, roll the dough into ropes about 1 inch thick. Cut into 1-inch pieces and gently press with a fork to create ridges.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the onion and garlic, sautéing until soft. Stir in the chopped tomatoes, basil, salt, and pepper, cooking until heated through.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi in batches; once they float to the surface, cook for an additional 2 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Drain the cooked gnocchi and toss gently with the tomato basil sauce. Serve warm, topped with fresh Parmesan cheese.

Enjoy your homemade Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of balsamic vinegar to the sauce or serving with a side of garlic bread.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

This gnocchi can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days; just be sure to toss it in a little flour to prevent sticking. For longer storage, freeze the uncooked gnocchi on a baking sheet until solid, then transfer to an airtight container. They can go directly from the freezer to boiling water; just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time. A quick tip: test one gnocchi to check for doneness before draining the whole batch.

The sauce can also be prepared in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days, or frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to reheat gently over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent it from sticking or burning. Adding a splash of water or broth can help revive the sauce as it heats.

Serving Suggestions

For a truly Italian experience, serve your Sunday Tomato Basil Gnocchi with a light side salad dressed in balsamic vinaigrette to balance the richness of the dish. A sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes can add a delightful kick if you enjoy some spice. Don’t forget freshly grated Parmesan! It not only enhances the flavor but also adds a beautiful finishing touch.

For those looking to switch things up, consider adding seasonal vegetables to the sauce, such as zucchini or bell peppers. Simply sauté these alongside the onions and garlic for a heartier dish. Alternatively, you could swap the basil for other herbs like oregano or thyme, which could give a lovely twist to the flavor profile while maintaining that homemade Italian essence.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I make gnocchi ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi in advance and freeze them. Just cook from frozen without thawing.

→ What type of potatoes are best for gnocchi?

Starchy potatoes like Russets or Yukon Golds work best as they yield a lighter gnocchi.

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! This sauce works perfectly with store-bought gnocchi for a quick meal.

→ Is this recipe suitable for vegans?

To make it vegan, substitute the egg with a flaxseed meal mixture or a vegan egg replacer.