Sunday Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi

Name: Sunday Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 25 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups ricotta cheese; 1 egg; 1 ½ cups all-purpose flour; ½ teaspoon salt; ½ teaspoon nutmeg; 2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh basil for garnish

Highlighted under: Traditional Comfort Food Ideas

I absolutely love making Sunday Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi with my family. There's something special about gathering around the kitchen, rolling out the dough together, and savoring each bite of these fluffy little pillows. The combination of fresh tomatoes and creamy ricotta creates a delightful dish that is both comforting and satisfying. Plus, the recipe comes together quickly, making it a perfect candidate for a cozy weekend dinner that we look forward to all week long.

Created by

Dorothy Finch

Last updated on 2026-01-11T21:47:34.882Z

When I first tried making gnocchi from scratch, I was amazed at how simple and rewarding it was. The key is to use the freshest ingredients, especially ripe tomatoes and good-quality ricotta. Not only does this enhance the flavor, but it also ensures a light and airy texture in every bite.

One of my favorite tips is to freeze the gnocchi before cooking them. This way, I can enjoy a homemade meal on busy weeknights without the extra prep. Truly, it’s the perfect way to make comfort food that feels special yet easy to prepare.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The delightful combination of sweet tomatoes and creamy ricotta.
Gnocchi that's light and fluffy, yet filling.
A family-friendly dish that brings everyone together.

      

Perfecting the Gnocchi Texture

Achieving the ideal texture for your gnocchi is all about the balance of ricotta and flour. Ricotta contributes moisture and creaminess, while flour provides structure. To prevent heavy gnocchi, ensure you measure your flour carefully — too much can lead to a dense final product. Start with 1 ½ cups and add a little more if necessary. The dough should be soft but not sticky, allowing you to form it into ropes easily.

Kneading the dough gently is crucial; overworking it can lead to tough gnocchi. I find that mixing just until combined and then a short knead on a floured surface is enough. When cutting the rolls, aim for uniform pieces to ensure even cooking. Roll each piece gently under your palm and use a fork to create the classic ridges, which help hold onto the sauce.

Flavorful Tomato Sauce Tips

The choice of tomatoes significantly impacts the sauce's flavor. Cherry tomatoes offer natural sweetness and a juicy burst that enhances the dish. When sautéing, make sure not to overcrowd the skillet, as that can cause steaming rather than browning. This step helps to concentrate the tomatoes' flavors, so space them out for a more robust sauce. Cook them until they start breaking down, which generally takes about 3-5 minutes.

Feel free to customize the sauce with additional flavors! A splash of balsamic vinegar can add depth, while a pinch of red pepper flakes can give it a kick. Always taste as you go; adjusting the seasoning to your preference can elevate the overall dish. If you love a touch of creaminess, consider adding a dollop of cream just before serving for a richer sauce.

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi

2 cups ricotta cheese
1 egg
1 ½ cups all-purpose flour
½ teaspoon salt
½ teaspoon nutmeg

For the Sauce

2 cups cherry tomatoes, halved
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions

Make the Gnocchi

In a large mixing bowl, combine the ricotta, egg, flour, salt, and nutmeg. Mix until a dough forms. Turn the dough out onto a floured surface and knead gently until smooth. Divide the dough into smaller portions and roll each into a long rope, then cut into bite-sized pieces.

Cook the Gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Drop in the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.

Prepare the Sauce

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant. Add halved cherry tomatoes, salt, and pepper, and cook until the tomatoes begin to soften, about 3-5 minutes.

Combine and Serve

Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the tomato sauce. Toss gently to combine and heat through. Serve warm, garnished with fresh basil.

Pro Tips

For an extra flavor boost, you can add grated Parmesan cheese to the sauce or sprinkle it over the finished dish. Also, if you prefer a thicker sauce, simply let it simmer a bit longer before adding the gnocchi.

Storage and Reheating

Leftover gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Make sure to separate the gnocchi from the sauce if possible to retain their texture. When reheating, gently warm them in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or extra sauce to prevent sticking. Avoid the microwave if you can, as it can lead to overcooked gnocchi.

If you enjoy meal prep, you can freeze fresh gnocchi. After shaping the pieces, lay them out on a baking sheet in a single layer and freeze until firm. Transfer them to a freezer bag for longer storage. They can be cooked directly from frozen – just add a minute or two to the boiling time to achieve that delightful float.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, serve your Sunday Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi with a light salad or steamed vegetables. The freshness of arugula or a simple mixed greens salad with a lemon vinaigrette can provide a perfect contrast to the richness of the gnocchi and sauce. Additionally, a warm, crusty bread can help soak up any delicious sauce left on the plate.

Consider experimenting with toppings to elevate the dish further. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmigiano-Reggiano or crumbled feta adds a delightful salty contrast. Toasted pine nuts or walnuts can provide added crunch and depth of flavor, while a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or balsamic reduction as a finishing touch can add sophistication and richness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use other types of cheese?

Yes! Mascarpone or cottage cheese can be used as alternatives to ricotta.

→ Is it possible to make the gnocchi ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare the gnocchi and freeze them for later use.

→ What sauce goes well with gnocchi?

Tomato sauce, pesto, or a creamy Alfredo sauce all pair beautifully with gnocchi.

→ How do I know when the gnocchi are done cooking?

Gnocchi are cooked when they float to the surface of the boiling water, usually within 2-3 minutes.