Dinner

30-Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe

Name: 30-Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
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 (DeLallo brand recommended); 2 (4-oz.) balls fresh burrata cheese; 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced or torn

ByRafael Mansero April 19, 2026April 19, 2026

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Introduction

This 30 Minute Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata is a comforting and elegant dish that combines pillowy gnocchi with a rich tomato cream sauce and fresh burrata cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, it’s simple to prepare yet feels decadent.

A close-up top view of a creamy gnocchi dish in a white round pan placed on a white marbled surface. The gnocchi are plump and coated in a rich, orange-hued creamy sauce. Scattered throughout are whole cherry tomatoes with vibrant red and orange tones, some slightly roasted. Dollops of soft white cheese sit on top, melting gently into the sauce. Fresh green basil leaves and thinly sliced basil pieces are sprinkled generously over the dish, adding bright color contrast. Small black pepper flakes are visible, seasoning the creamy texture. The overall look is warm, creamy, and inviting, with a mix of smooth and soft textures. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

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

Instructions

Step 1: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Meanwhile, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add garlic and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
Step 2: Increase heat to medium and add cherry tomatoes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until most tomatoes break down and become jammy, about 10 to 12 minutes. If garlic starts to burn, lower heat to medium-low. Season with red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in heavy cream.
Step 3: When water boils, add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve 1/2 cup of pasta cooking water, then drain the rest.
Step 4: Transfer cooked gnocchi and reserved pasta water to the skillet with tomato sauce. Toss continuously until the sauce thickens and becomes glossy, about 2 minutes. Stir in most of the basil, reserving some for garnish.
Step 5: Break burrata balls into pieces and distribute evenly over the pasta. Remove skillet from heat and garnish with the reserved basil before serving.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, roast the cherry tomatoes before adding them to the skillet.
Substitute burrata with fresh mozzarella if burrata is unavailable.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice to the sauce for a bright, fresh note.
Use fresh gnocchi from the refrigerated section for best results.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of cream or pasta water if the sauce has thickened too much. Burrata is best added fresh at serving and does not reheat well.

How to Serve

The image shows a bowl of gnocchi in a creamy orange sauce, with bright red cherry tomatoes scattered throughout. The bowl is white with a brown rim, placed on a green speckled plate on a white marbled surface. There are three dollops of white cheese or cream on top of the gnocchi, sprinkled lightly with black pepper and red chili flakes. Fresh green basil leaves are placed on one side, adding a pop of color. A gold spoon is partially dipped inside the bowl. In the background, there is a small brown bowl with chili flakes and another similar bowl of gnocchi partly visible. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used. Just be sure to cook it according to package instructions and add it to the sauce immediately after draining.

Is burrata cheese necessary, or can I use another cheese?

Burrata adds a creamy, rich texture that complements the sauce beautifully, but fresh mozzarella or ricotta can be used as alternatives for a similar effect.