Name: Creamy Tomato & Mascarpone Gnocchi with Broccoli and Basil Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 small head of broccoli, stalk and florets roughly chopped; 1 red chilli, finely chopped, deseeded if preferred; 2 garlic cloves, finely sliced; 200g fresh cherry tomatoes, halved; small handful of basil leaves, picked; 1 tbsp olive oil; 300g chilled gnocchi; 25g mascarpone

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Introduction

This creamy tomato and mascarpone gnocchi is a quick and comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Combining tender gnocchi with vibrant cherry tomatoes and a silky mascarpone sauce, it’s full of fresh, satisfying flavors that everyone will enjoy.

The image shows a round metal pan filled with a colorful gnocchi dish. The base layer is small yellow gnocchi pieces, each with a soft, slightly browned texture. Mixed within are bright green broccoli florets with some charred, dark spots, adding a textured contrast. Scattered among the broccoli and gnocchi are small chunks of red tomatoes and thin slices of red chili peppers. Fresh basil leaves, vibrant and green, top the dish, adding freshness. A silver spoon rests inside the pan, partially covered by the food. The pan sits on a white marbled surface next to a folded blue cloth. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tbsp olive oil
1 small head of broccoli, stalk and florets roughly chopped
1 red chilli, finely chopped, deseeded if you like
2 garlic cloves, finely sliced
200g fresh cherry tomatoes, halved
300g chilled gnocchi
25g mascarpone
small handful of basil, leaves picked

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep frying pan over medium heat. Add the chopped broccoli and fry for about 5 minutes until it turns golden brown.
Step 2: Stir in the chopped red chilli, sliced garlic, and halved cherry tomatoes. Continue to gently fry for another 5 minutes until the tomatoes start to burst.
Step 3: Add the chilled gnocchi to the pan and cook for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender and heated through.
Step 4: Remove the pan from heat and stir in the mascarpone until the sauce is creamy and well combined. Season generously with black pepper.
Step 5: Scatter fresh basil leaves over the top and serve immediately for a delicious, comforting meal.

Tips & Variations

For a milder heat, remove all the seeds from the chilli or substitute with a pinch of smoked paprika for a different flavor.
You can swap broccoli for spinach or green beans depending on what you have available.
If you want to add protein, grilled chicken or cooked chickpeas make great additions.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce if needed. This dish is best enjoyed fresh as gnocchi can become firmer after cooling.

How to Serve

A round silver pan holds a colorful gnocchi dish with three main layers: the bottom layer shows golden-yellow gnocchi pieces with a soft texture, mixed throughout are charred green broccoli florets with some browning edges, while scattered bright red tomato chunks and thin red chili slices add sharp contrast. Fresh green basil leaves are placed on top as a garnish. A silver spoon rests inside the pan to the right. The pan sits on a white marbled surface with a folded bright blue cloth nearby. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used. Simply cook them according to package instructions before adding them to the sauce to ensure the best texture.

Is mascarpone necessary, or can I substitute it?

Mascarpone adds a rich creaminess, but you can substitute it with cream cheese or a splash of heavy cream if mascarpone isn’t available.