Burrata Gnocchi with Basil and Tomato – Creamy, Fresh, and Restaurant-Worthy

Burrata Gnocchi with Basil and Tomato

Comfort food meets summer freshness in this simple yet luxurious dish. Burrata Gnocchi with Basil and Tomato brings together pillowy soft gnocchi, sweet cherry tomatoes, and fragrant basil—all topped with rich, creamy burrata. It’s elegant enough to impress guests but easy enough for a weeknight dinner. This is Italian-inspired comfort at its best: fresh, flavorful, and ready in under 30 minutes.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

With just a few high-quality ingredients, this dish shines. Use store-bought gnocchi for ease or homemade for a special touch. The key is in ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and ultra-creamy burrata.

  • 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi (fresh or shelf-stable)
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic, thinly sliced
  • 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Salt and black pepper, to taste
  • 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
  • 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn or sliced
  • 1 large ball of burrata cheese (or 2 smaller ones)
  • Optional: grated Parmesan for extra richness

Nutritional Value at a Glance

This dish is balanced with carbs, healthy fats, and protein. Gnocchi provides cozy comfort, tomatoes add antioxidants, and burrata brings richness and creaminess without overwhelming the plate.

  • Calories: ~420 per serving
  • Protein: 14g
  • Carbs: 45g
  • Fat: 20g
  • Sugars: 5g
  • Fiber: 4g

Timing Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
Total Time: 25–30 minutes

How to Make It – Simple Steps

This recipe is fast, fresh, and filled with flavor. Lightly pan-fried gnocchi adds a golden crust, while tomatoes burst into a natural sauce. Top it all with creamy burrata for the final wow factor.

  1. Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package directions; drain and set aside.
  2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.
  3. Add cherry tomatoes, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes. Cook until tomatoes start to blister and soften, about 5–7 minutes.
  4. Stir in cooked gnocchi and fresh basil. Toss gently to combine and heat through.
  5. Transfer to serving bowls. Tear burrata and place on top. Drizzle with olive oil and serve immediately.

Ingredient Swaps & Add-Ons

Make it your own with easy changes. Whether you want more protein, fewer carbs, or a different twist, this recipe is endlessly flexible.

  • Swap gnocchi with cauliflower gnocchi for a lighter version
  • Use mozzarella pearls if burrata is unavailable
  • Add sautéed spinach or zucchini for extra veggies
  • Top with toasted pine nuts for crunch
  • Stir in pesto for a more herby finish
  • Add grilled chicken or shrimp for a protein boost

Serving Ideas for Any Occasion

This dish can stand alone as a main course or be served with sides for a full spread. It’s cozy enough for cool nights and fresh enough for warmer days.

  • Serve with a crisp green salad and balsamic vinaigrette
  • Pair with crusty bread to mop up every drop
  • Enjoy with a chilled glass of white wine or sparkling water
  • Add roasted vegetables on the side
  • Serve family-style with extra burrata for the table

Storing & Reheating Tips

This dish is best served fresh, but leftovers still taste amazing. Just reheat gently and add a little water or oil to keep the gnocchi soft.

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 2 days
  • Reheat in a skillet with a splash of water or broth
  • Burrata is best fresh, but you can top with fresh cheese again before serving
  • Avoid freezing due to the cheese texture

Chef’s Tips for a Next-Level Finish

Little upgrades make a big difference here. These tips help you get that restaurant-style look and taste at home—without any fuss.

  • Pan-fry the gnocchi in butter after boiling for extra crisp edges
  • Let tomatoes blister and caramelize for richer flavor
  • Use high-quality olive oil and flaky sea salt to finish
  • Add a splash of white wine or lemon juice for brightness
  • Always tear, not cut, the basil for the best aroma

Fresh, Creamy, and Completely Crave-Worthy

Burrata Gnocchi with Basil and Tomato is that magical mix of simple and sophisticated. It’s full of comforting textures, bright flavors, and creamy richness that feels indulgent without being heavy. Whether you’re cooking for guests or treating yourself to a quiet night in, this dish is guaranteed to deliver. Pin it, try it, and fall in love with the perfect bite of summer-meets-cozy.

FAQs

You can use store-bought potato gnocchi for convenience or make homemade gnocchi if you prefer. Either regular or gluten-free options work well in this dish.

Yes! While burrata adds a rich, creamy center, you can swap it with fresh mozzarella, ricotta, or even a dollop of mascarpone for a different twist.

You can prepare the tomato-basil sauce ahead and cook the gnocchi just before serving. Add the burrata fresh to keep its creamy texture.

Boil the gnocchi until they float (about 2–3 minutes), or pan-fry them for a crispy golden edge before tossing with sauce—both versions work beautifully.

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, but add fresh burrata just before serving for best texture.

Fresh parsley, oregano, or even arugula can substitute for basil in a pinch, though basil provides the most classic flavor.