Tomato Basil Gnocchi with Olive Oil Drizzle is a heartwarming Italian-inspired dish featuring soft, pillowy gnocchi coated in a fragrant tomato-basil sauce and finished with a drizzle of golden olive oil.

This recipe brings together the essence of rustic Italian cooking — simple ingredients, fresh herbs, and a balance of comfort and elegance.

The gnocchi absorbs the tomato and basil flavors beautifully, creating a dish that’s both light and satisfying. Perfect for a romantic dinner or a family meal, it’s comfort food at its most refined.

Why I Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it celebrates the beauty of simplicity — every ingredient shines. The fluffy gnocchi paired with the freshness of tomatoes and basil creates a burst of flavor in every bite. The olive oil drizzle adds a luxurious, silky touch that enhances the dish’s richness.

It’s quick enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for entertaining guests. Plus, it smells heavenly as it cooks — a true Italian comfort dish that never disappoints.

Why It’s a Must-Try Dish

This dish is a must-try for anyone who loves classic Italian flavors. It’s not only quick and easy to make, but it also feels like a restaurant-quality meal you can prepare at home. The gnocchi cooks in minutes, and the sauce is made with just a few pantry staples.

The combination of basil, ripe tomatoes, and olive oil creates a perfect balance of sweetness, tang, and richness. It’s vegetarian-friendly, customizable, and pure comfort in a bowl.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Calories (per serving): ~420 kcal

Cuisine and Course

Cuisine: Italian
Course: Main Course, Dinner

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi and Sauce:

1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved (or 1 can crushed tomatoes)
1 tablespoon tomato paste
½ teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
Salt and black pepper, to taste
¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for spice)
¼ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped

For Garnish and Drizzle:

2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil (for drizzling)
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Simple Cooking Directions

Boil the gnocchi in salted water until they float to the top; drain and set aside.
Sauté garlic in olive oil, then add tomatoes and tomato paste.
Simmer the sauce until thickened, then stir in basil and seasoning.
Toss the cooked gnocchi in the sauce, drizzle with olive oil, and garnish with Parmesan and basil.

Step-by-Step Recipe Preparation

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Add gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface (about 2–3 minutes).
Drain and set aside, reserving ½ cup of the pasta water.

Step 2: Prepare the Tomato Basil Sauce

In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons olive oil over medium heat.
Add minced garlic and sauté until fragrant (about 30 seconds).
Add cherry tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes) and tomato paste. Stir well.
Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using).
Simmer for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens slightly.
Add sugar if needed to balance the acidity of the tomatoes.

Step 3: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss gently to coat in the sauce.
Add a splash of reserved pasta water to loosen the sauce if necessary.
Stir in chopped basil and cook for another minute.

Step 4: Finish and Serve

Remove from heat and drizzle with extra virgin olive oil.
Garnish with freshly grated Parmesan and extra basil leaves.

How to Serve

Serve Tomato Basil Gnocchi hot in shallow bowls. Drizzle a bit more olive oil over each portion just before serving for that signature silky finish. Pair it with garlic bread, a green salad, or a glass of crisp white wine. It also makes a beautiful main course for a dinner party or a cozy night in.

Additional Recipe Tips

Use fresh basil — it makes all the difference in flavor.
Choose high-quality olive oil for drizzling; it elevates the dish.
Don’t overcook the gnocchi — remove them as soon as they float.
For extra creaminess, stir in a tablespoon of mascarpone cheese at the end.
If you like heat, add a pinch of chili flakes before serving.

Variations

Creamy Tomato Gnocchi: Add ¼ cup heavy cream or cream cheese to the sauce.
Gnocchi al Pesto: Swap tomato sauce for basil pesto and drizzle with olive oil.
Tomato Spinach Gnocchi: Add a handful of fresh spinach to the sauce before tossing in the gnocchi.
Baked Gnocchi: Transfer to a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake at 375°F (190°C) for 10 minutes until bubbly.
Vegan Version: Skip the Parmesan and use plant-based cheese or nutritional yeast.

Freezing and Storage Time

Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezing (Uncooked Gnocchi): Freeze uncooked gnocchi on a tray, then transfer to a freezer bag for up to 2 months.
Freezing (Cooked Dish): You can freeze the sauced gnocchi for up to 1 month; thaw overnight and reheat on the stove with a splash of water.

Special Equipment Needed

Large pot (for boiling gnocchi)
Large skillet or sauté pan
Wooden spoon or spatula
Colander
Grater (for Parmesan)

FAQ

Q1: Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes! Store-bought gnocchi works great and saves time. Just make sure to not overcook it.

Q2: Can I make it dairy-free?
Absolutely. Skip the cheese or use a vegan alternative.

Q3: How do I make the sauce creamier?
Add a splash of heavy cream, ricotta, or mascarpone cheese to the sauce.

Q4: Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?
Yes, but reduce the quantity to 1 teaspoon — fresh basil has a more vibrant flavor.

Q5: What can I serve it with?
Pair it with garlic bread, salad, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Conclusion

Tomato Basil Gnocchi with Olive Oil Drizzle is a timeless Italian favorite that proves simple ingredients can create something truly extraordinary. The tender gnocchi, paired with a rich tomato-basil sauce and finished with fragrant olive oil, offers comfort and elegance in every bite.

Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a dinner party, this dish delivers restaurant-quality taste with homemade warmth. It’s quick, flavorful, and sure to become a staple in your kitchen.