One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Gnocchi Easy and Fast Recipe

Are you ready for a quick meal that bursts with flavor? This One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Gnocchi recipe is your answer! With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a hearty dish that’s perfect for any night. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this tasty meal in under 30 minutes. Let’s dive into the details and get cooking!
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
Additional Components
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon granulated sugar
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
Seasoning and Garnishes
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for garnish)
For this One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Gnocchi, you’ll need a few basic items. Potato gnocchi is the star. It cooks quickly and soaks up the sauce well. Extra virgin olive oil helps to start the flavor. Minced garlic adds a nice punch. Red pepper flakes bring the heat, but adjust it to your taste.
Next, you’ll want crushed tomatoes for the sauce base. Vegetable broth adds depth to your dish. Granulated sugar balances the acidity of the tomatoes. Dried oregano gives it an Italian flair.
Finally, season with salt and black pepper. Fresh basil adds brightness and aroma. If you like, top with grated Parmesan cheese for a creamy finish. These ingredients combine to make a hearty, flavorful meal in one pot.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the Base
1. Heat olive oil: In a large pot, pour in 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil. Heat it over medium heat until warm.
2. Sauté garlic and red pepper flakes: Add 4 finely minced cloves of garlic and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Stir for about 30 seconds. Keep an eye on the garlic; we want it fragrant, not burnt.
3. Add crushed tomatoes and broth: Pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and 1 cup of vegetable broth. Stir well to mix everything together.
Developing the Flavor
1. Season the sauce: Mix in 1 teaspoon of granulated sugar, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and a good pinch of salt and black pepper.
2. Simmer: Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This step helps the flavors come together and develop.
Cooking the Gnocchi
1. Add the gnocchi: Carefully add 1 package (16 oz) of potato gnocchi into the pot. Gently stir to coat the gnocchi in the sauce.
2. Cover and cook: Place a lid on the pot. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the top. This means they are done.
3. Finish with basil: Remove the pot from the heat. Stir in 1 cup of roughly chopped fresh basil. Taste the dish and adjust the seasoning if needed.
Tips & Tricks
Adjusting Spice Levels
To change the heat, start with less red pepper flakes. You can add more later if you want it spicier. If you need a milder dish, try using smoked paprika or sweet bell pepper. Both give flavor without the heat.
Enhancing Flavor
You can boost the taste by adding more herbs like thyme or parsley. Fresh herbs bring brightness. Dried herbs work too, but they are less vibrant. A squeeze of lemon juice can also lift the flavors. It adds freshness that balances the dish.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
If your sauce gets too thick, add a splash of vegetable broth or water. This will loosen it up. If your gnocchi are undercooked, just keep cooking them a bit longer. They should float when done. Check often to avoid overcooking.
Variations
Custom Ingredient Swaps
You can easily swap out the gnocchi for other pasta types. Penne or fusilli works well too. If you want more protein, you can add diced chicken or shrimp. Cook them in the pot before adding the tomatoes. This keeps the dish tasty and filling.
Different Flavor Profiles
Feel free to add more vegetables to your dish. Spinach and bell peppers add great color and flavor. You can also experiment with different cheeses. Try mozzarella for a gooey texture or feta for a salty kick.
Dietary Considerations
For vegan options, use plant-based cheese or skip the cheese entirely. You can also make this dish gluten-free. Just replace regular gnocchi with gluten-free gnocchi. If you’re looking for low-carb choices, use cauliflower gnocchi instead. It gives you the same fun texture with fewer carbs.
Storage Info
Storing Leftovers
To store your One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Gnocchi, let it cool first. Then, place the leftovers in an airtight container. You can keep it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to keep it longer, freezing is a great option.
Reheating Instructions
When you reheat, I recommend using the stovetop. This keeps the gnocchi’s texture nice. Just add a splash of water or broth to the pot while heating. Stir occasionally. If you use the microwave, heat in short bursts. Stir in between to avoid hot spots.
Freezing for Later
To freeze, let the dish cool completely. Then, scoop portions into freezer-safe bags. Make sure to remove as much air as possible. This helps prevent freezer burn. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight. Reheat it on the stovetop for the best results.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. Frozen gnocchi cooks a bit longer than fresh. Add an extra two to three minutes to the cooking time. The flavor remains great, but the texture may change slightly. Keep an eye on them as they cook.
How do I know if my gnocchi is cooked?
You’ll know gnocchi is cooked when they float. This means they are ready to eat. If they stay at the bottom, wait a minute and check again. Floating gnocchi should be soft and tender, not mushy.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can make this dish ahead of time. Cook it fully and let it cool. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, add a splash of water and warm it on the stove. This will keep the gnocchi from drying out.
What can I serve with One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Gnocchi?
You can serve this dish with a simple green salad. Garlic bread pairs well too. For a heartier meal, add grilled chicken or shrimp. Enjoy with a glass of red wine to enhance the flavors.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, you can make this recipe gluten-free. Use gluten-free gnocchi, which is available at most stores. Just check the label to ensure it’s gluten-free. The sauce remains the same, so your meal will still be delicious!
This blog post covered how to whip up One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Gnocchi. We explored key ingredients like gnocchi, tomatoes, and fresh herbs. I shared useful tips for adjusting spice levels and enhancing flavors. You learned how to store and reheat leftovers properly.
In conclusion, this dish is flexible and forgiving. You can swap ingredients and adjust spice to your taste. Get creative! Enjoy making this meal that is both delicious and easy. Happy cooking!
