Ingredients
For the Sauce
- 1/4 cup extra-virgin olive oil
- 6 to 8 garlic cloves, peeled and lightly crushed
- 2 pints cherry tomatoes
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly cracked black pepper
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
For the Gnocchi
- 2 (16-oz.) packages potato gnocchi (DeLallo brand recommended)
For Garnish
- 2 (4-oz.) balls fresh burrata cheese
- 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves, sliced or torn
Instructions
- Prepare the Sauce: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. While waiting, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat. Add the lightly crushed garlic cloves and cook until fragrant, about 2 minutes. Increase heat to medium and add cherry tomatoes. Cook, stirring occasionally, until most tomatoes break down and become jammy, about 10 to 12 minutes. If garlic starts to burn, lower the heat back to medium-low. Season the sauce with optional red pepper flakes, kosher salt, and freshly cracked black pepper. Reduce heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream to create a creamy tomato sauce.
- Cook the Gnocchi: When the water is boiling, add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until al dente, usually 2 to 3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Reserve 1/2 cup of the pasta cooking water and then drain the gnocchi.
- Toss Gnocchi in Sauce: Transfer the cooked gnocchi along with the reserved pasta water to the skillet with the creamy tomato sauce. Toss continuously over medium-low heat until the sauce thickens, becomes glossy, and evenly coats the gnocchi, about 2 minutes. Stir in most of the fresh basil, reserving some for garnish.
- Add Burrata and Garnish: Break the burrata into pieces and evenly distribute it over the gnocchi. Remove the skillet from heat. Garnish the dish with the remaining fresh basil and serve immediately while warm and creamy.
Notes
- Use fresh burrata cheese for the best creamy texture and flavor.
- If you prefer less spice, omit the red pepper flakes.
- Reserve pasta water helps to adjust sauce consistency for a silky finish.
- This dish is best served immediately to enjoy the burrata melting into the sauce.
- Substitute potato gnocchi with store-bought or homemade for a personal touch.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
- Diet: Vegetarian