One Pot Tomato Basil Gnocchi – Creamy & Easy Dinner

One Pot Tomato Basil Gnocchi is the ultimate cozy dinner made with pillowy gnocchi, rich tomato sauce, and fragrant fresh basil—all cooked in one pot. This recipe delivers bold Italian-inspired flavor with minimal cleanup and simple ingredients.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One pot means minimal cleanup
• Soft, pillowy gnocchi cooked directly in the sauce
• Creamy tomato flavor balanced with fresh basil
• Ready in under 30 minutes
• Comforting without feeling heavy

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 small onion, finely diced
• 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
• 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 pound shelf-stable potato gnocchi
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large deep skillet or pot over medium heat.
2. Add diced onion and cook for 3–4 minutes until soft.
3. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes; cook for 30 seconds.
4. Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring to combine.
5. Bring sauce to a gentle simmer.
6. Add gnocchi directly into the sauce and stir gently.
7. Cover and cook for 4–5 minutes, stirring once, until gnocchi is tender.
8. Stir in heavy cream, salt, and black pepper.
9. Add grated Parmesan and simmer uncovered for 2–3 minutes until thickened.
10. Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil before serving.

Tips & Variations

• Use shelf-stable gnocchi for best texture
• Add spinach or kale during the final minutes for extra greens
• Swap heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce
• Stir in roasted mushrooms for deeper flavor
• Finish with lemon zest for brightness

Storage & Freezer Instructions

• Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days
• Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of broth or milk
• Avoid overheating to prevent gnocchi from becoming mushy
• Freezing is not recommended due to cream-based sauce texture
• Add fresh basil after reheating for best flavor

Serving & Pairing Ideas

• Serve with garlic bread or warm focaccia
• Pair with a crisp green salad
• Top with extra Parmesan or fresh mozzarella
• Add roasted vegetables on the side
• Finish with cracked black pepper or chili oil

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use refrigerated or frozen gnocchi?

Yes. Adjust cooking time slightly and ensure gnocchi cooks gently in the sauce without boiling.

Will the sauce thicken as it sits?

Yes. The gnocchi releases starch, naturally thickening the sauce over time.

Can I make this dairy-free?

Use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream and omit Parmesan.

Is this recipe good for meal prep?

It’s best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers reheat well within a couple of days.

Ready to Make It?

This One Pot Tomato Basil Gnocchi delivers creamy comfort with minimal effort. It’s fast, flavorful, and perfect for nights when you want something cozy without a sink full of dishes. Save this recipe for a satisfying one-pot dinner you’ll make again and again.

You Might Also Like

• Vegetable Curry – Warm spices and rich plant-based comfort.
• Zucchini Noodles with Pesto – Fresh and light Italian-inspired dinner.
• Three Bean Meatless Chili – Hearty, protein-packed comfort food.
• One Pan Salmon and Vegetables – Easy, nutritious weeknight meal.

Print