Sunday Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi

Name: Sunday Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 500g ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 100g all-purpose flour; Salt and pepper to taste; 400g canned diced tomatoes; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Highlighted under: Clean Food

I love spending Sundays in the kitchen, and this Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi recipe has become a favorite in my household. The combination of creamy ricotta and ripe tomatoes creates a comforting dish that warms the heart. Each time I prepare this, I'm reminded of sunny family gatherings, and the best part is how easy it is to make from scratch. With a little bit of effort, I can whip up a plate of fluffy gnocchi that brings everyone to the table, enjoying not just the meal but the memories that come with it.

Created by

Zadie Whitmore

Last updated on 2026-01-11T18:02:36.998Z

When I first tried making gnocchi from scratch, I was amazed at how simple it could be and how delightful the results were. My go-to recipe features creamy ricotta as the base, which adds an incredibly rich flavor that pairs perfectly with fresh tomatoes. Each bite is like a hug in a bowl, and it's surprisingly quick to prepare.

One tip I've discovered is to gently fold the dough to keep it light and airy; overworking it will make the gnocchi dense. I like to serve it with a light sprinkle of Parmesan and a few basil leaves to elevate the taste even more. It’s always a hit with family and friends!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Creamy ricotta pairs perfectly with fresh tomatoes for a rich flavor
Light and fluffy gnocchi that melts in your mouth
An impressive dish that's surprisingly easy to make

Techniques for Perfect Gnocchi

To achieve light and fluffy gnocchi, it's essential not to overwork the dough. When mixing the ingredients, simply combine them until they just come together. Over-kneading can result in chewy gnocchi instead of the airy texture we’re aiming for. If you find the dough is too sticky, add a bit more flour gradually—this will help without making the gnocchi dense.

When shaping your gnocchi, using a bench scraper can help manage the dough with ease. Cut the rolled dough into bite-sized pieces, roughly 2 cm each. You can use the back of a fork to create an indentation, which not only gives them a classic shape but also helps the sauce cling better to each piece.

Flavor Elevation with Fresh Ingredients

The quality of your tomatoes significantly impacts the final dish. Opt for high-quality canned diced tomatoes, as they provide rich flavor and sweetness without the need for additional sugar. If using fresh tomatoes, choose Roma or San Marzano varieties, and consider roasting them beforehand to enhance the sweetness and depth.

Fresh basil not only serves as a garnish but also elevates the overall flavor profile. Chop or tear the basil and add it at the end of cooking to maintain its bright flavor. Alternatively, for a slightly different take, you can use a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes to add some heat to the sauce.

Storage and Serving Suggestions

This Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi can be made ahead and stored. Simply cook the gnocchi, let them cool, and then place them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to two days. To reheat, quickly sauté them in the tomato sauce over medium heat until warmed through, avoiding overcooking that can make them mushy.

For a beautiful presentation, consider serving the gnocchi in individual bowls topped with the tomato sauce and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Add a drizzle of good quality olive oil just before serving for an extra layer of flavor.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

500g ricotta cheese
1 egg
100g all-purpose flour
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Tomato Sauce

400g canned diced tomatoes
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish

Instructions

Steps to Make Gnocchi

Prepare the Gnocchi Dough

In a mixing bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, egg, and flour. Season with salt and pepper. Mix until a soft dough forms, being careful not to overwork it.

Shape the Gnocchi

On a floured surface, roll the dough into long ropes and cut into small pieces. Use a fork to create a slight indentation on each piece if desired.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove and drain.

Make the Tomato Sauce

In a pan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute. Add the diced tomatoes and simmer for 10 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Toss the cooked gnocchi with the tomato sauce. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil.

Pro Tips

For an extra touch of flavor, try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the tomato sauce for a bit of heat.

Make-Ahead Tips

Making gnocchi from scratch is a rewarding process, and you can do much of it ahead of time. Prepare the gnocchi dough and shape it, then freeze the uncooked gnocchi on a floured baking sheet. Once frozen solid, transfer them to a zip-top bag. They'll last well in the freezer for up to two months, and you can cook them straight from frozen, adding a minute or two to their cooking time.

If you want to simplify your kitchen time even further, prepare the tomato sauce in advance as well. It keeps well in the fridge for up to a week and can be frozen for up to three months. Just reheat gently before tossing with the cooked gnocchi.

Variations on a Classic

For a twist on this classic dish, consider adding vegetables to the tomato sauce for additional flavor and nutrients. Sauté diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach along with the garlic before adding the tomatoes. This not only enhances the dish but also helps incorporate more vibrant colors and textures.

You could also experiment with different cheeses in the gnocchi. While ricotta is creamy and soft, a blend of ricotta with grated Parmesan or mozzarella can create a deeper flavor and a slightly chewy texture, adding a delicious twist.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Definitely! Store-bought gnocchi can save time and still taste great with the sauce.

→ How can I store leftovers?

Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently before serving.

→ Is this recipe suitable for freezing?

Yes, uncooked gnocchi can be frozen. Just place them in a single layer on a baking sheet before transferring to a freezer bag.

→ Can I substitute the ricotta cheese?

You can use cottage cheese or even mashed potatoes, but ricotta gives the best texture and flavor for gnocchi.