Description
This Tomato Goat Cheese Gnocchi is a quick and comforting Italian-inspired dish featuring tender potato gnocchi simmered in a flavorful tomato sauce, enriched with creamy goat cheese and fresh basil. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner, it combines simple pantry staples with fresh ingredients to deliver a rich, tangy, and slightly spicy meal that’s done in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
Scale
Sauce and Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14 fluid ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 3/4 cup chicken or vegetable broth
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper to taste
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
- 4 ounces goat cheese (or to taste)
- 1 small handful fresh basil, torn or sliced thin
For Serving (Optional)
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Fresh bread
Instructions
- Sauté the Onion: Heat the olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 5 to 7 minutes, allowing it to soften and lightly brown, which will develop a sweet, caramelized flavor base for the sauce.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant, being careful not to burn it to preserve its fresh flavor.
- Simmer Sauce with Gnocchi: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Add the Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes if using, and the uncooked gnocchi. Cook uncovered, stirring frequently, for about 6 to 7 minutes or until the gnocchi are tender and have absorbed some of the sauce. Adjust heat as necessary to maintain a gentle simmer without burning.
- Finish with Cheese and Basil: Remove from heat and stir in the goat cheese and fresh basil leaves until the cheese melts into the sauce, creating a creamy texture. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, optionally topping with freshly grated parmesan cheese and accompanied by fresh bread to soak up the delicious sauce.
Notes
- If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the crushed red pepper flakes.
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Fresh gnocchi can be used if available; cooking times may be slightly shorter.
- Pairing this dish with a crisp green salad balances the richness of the goat cheese.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and gently reheated; the sauce may thicken, so add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
