Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi Recipe

If you’re craving something both comforting and a little bit fancy, this Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi Recipe is exactly what you need. I absolutely love how the roasted tomatoes bring a smoky sweetness that perfectly complements the pillowy vegan gnocchi, all wrapped up in a luscious coconut cream sauce. It’s super easy to make, takes about 45 minutes, and honestly, it feels special enough for a weekend dinner but simple enough for a weeknight. Trust me, you’re going to want to keep this one in your regular rotation.

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Ingredients You’ll Need

All these ingredients come together beautifully to create a sauce that’s rich and creamy without cream, with a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and fresh notes. When shopping, I like to grab ripe cherry tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and always use fresh thyme and basil for the best aroma.

• Cherry or Grape Tomatoes: Small tomatoes roast evenly and release incredible sweetness.
• Shallots: They add a subtle onion flavor that’s sweeter and less harsh than regular onions.
• Garlic Cloves: Roasting mellows garlic’s bite into a nutty, rich flavor.
• Coarse Sea Salt: Enhances flavors but adjust if using a finer salt to avoid oversalting.
• Cracked Black Pepper: Freshly cracked packs more punch than pre-ground.
• Smoked Paprika: This adds a subtle smokiness that makes the sauce sing.
• Cayenne Pepper: Just a pinch or two for warmth and heat — add more if you like it spicy.
• Fresh Ginger Root: Grated to bring a lightly zesty note that lifts the sauce.
• Coconut Sugar (or Light Brown Sugar): Balances acidity and deepens roasted flavors.
• Fresh Thyme: Woody, herbaceous thyme pairs wonderfully with roasted tomatoes.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil: For roasting and adding richness.
• Fresh Potato Gnocchi (egg- and dairy-free): Look for vegan varieties at your grocery store, or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
• Small Lemon Juice: Adds brightness and a fresh finish to contrast the richness.
• Fresh Basil Leaves: Stirred in at the end for a fresh herbal pop.
• Full Fat Coconut Cream: The secret to that silky smooth texture without dairy.
• Chili Flakes (optional): Garnish to up the heat and add a colorful touch on top.

Variations

I love playing around with this Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi Recipe to keep it interesting, and I encourage you to make it your own! Whether you want it spicier, herbier, or even protein-packed, there are lots of ways to customize.

• Savory Twist: I sometimes add sautéed mushrooms or roasted bell peppers for extra texture and umami.
• Greens Galore: Toss in some baby spinach or arugula right before serving for a fresh, healthy vibe.
• Protein Boost: Vegan sausage or pan-fried tofu cubes work great stirred in for a heartier meal.
• Mild Version: Cut back the cayenne if you prefer a gentler spice level that kids will also enjoy.

How to Make Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi Recipe

Step 1: Prep and Roast the Tomatoes

Start by preheating your oven to 375ºF (190ºC). While that’s warming up, remove the stems from your tomatoes, peel the garlic cloves, thinly slice the shallots, grate the fresh ginger, and strip the thyme leaves from their stems. Toss all those vibrant ingredients together in a cast iron skillet or any oven-safe dish, then add your olive oil, spices, salt, sugar, and fresh herbs. Mix everything well so each tomato gets coated — this is where the magic starts! Pop it in the oven for about 35 minutes to roast low and slow until the tomatoes burst and caramelize beautifully.

Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi

About 10 minutes before your tomatoes finish roasting, bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Fresh potato gnocchi only take a few minutes — once they float to the surface (roughly 2-3 minutes), scoop them out and drain. It’s key not to overcook here to keep them pillowy and tender, not mushy. Set them aside until the tomatoes are ready.

Step 3: Combine and Finish the Sauce

Carefully remove the hot skillet from the oven (use an oven mitt — it’s seriously hot!). Add your cooked gnocchi, coconut cream, lemon juice, and fresh basil leaves right into the rich tomato mixture. Stir gently but thoroughly until everything is coated in a creamy, dreamy sauce. If you like, sprinkle some chili flakes or more cracked black pepper on top for that final kick. Serve immediately, preferably in cozy bowls, and get ready for all the compliments.

How to Serve Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi Recipe

Garnishes

I love finishing this dish with a little sprinkle of red chili flakes for color and kick, plus a few fresh basil leaves just before serving — it makes it look gorgeous and adds that fresh herbal brightness. Sometimes a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil or a grind of fresh black pepper on top takes it up a notch.

Side Dishes

My family goes crazy for this served alongside a crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess. Garlic bread or a rustic baguette is also perfect to mop up every last bit of sauce — no one wants to waste these flavors!

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I like serving this gnocchi straight in individual cast iron skillets or pretty ceramic dishes. Adding a few whole roasted garlic cloves on top and a light drizzle of basil oil makes it visually stunning and restaurant-worthy. You could even turn it into a warm pasta salad by letting it cool slightly and adding toasted pine nuts or vegan parmesan.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftovers keep really well in an airtight container in the fridge for about 2 days. I recommend storing the gnocchi and sauce together to let the flavors meld even further. Just be aware the texture of gnocchi might soften; it’s still delicious, though!

Freezing

I’ve frozen this recipe a couple of times with pretty good results. Cool completely, then freeze in a sealed container for up to 3 months. When you thaw it, the gnocchi might be a little softer, but reheating gently in a pan helps revive most of the texture and flavor.

Reheating

For reheating, I prefer a quick warm-up on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to avoid sticking or burning. If it feels a bit thick, add a splash of plant milk or water to loosen the sauce. Microwave works too, but watch the time to keep the gnocchi tender.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Roasted Tomato Gnocchi Recipe has become one of my go-to meals because it brings together incredible flavor, satisfying texture, and the kind of comfort that feels like a warm hug on a plate. I love how approachable it is—no fancy ingredients or complicated techniques—yet it looks and tastes truly special. I really hope you give this a try soon, whether for a cozy night in or to impress friends. Once you do, I’m pretty sure it’s going to be a favorite in your kitchen, just like it is in mine!

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