One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Gnocchi Flavorful Feast
Do you crave a quick, tasty meal that warms your soul? Look no further! This One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Gnocchi delivers rich flavors and comforting textures in just one pot. You’ll whip up a delightful dish that’s perfect for busy nights or easy meal prep. Let’s dive into the ingredients and steps to create this flavorful feast that will impress your taste buds!
Ingredients
Main ingredients for One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Gnocchi
To make this dish, you need a few key ingredients. Here’s what you will use:
– 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust for spice level)
– 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup vegetable broth
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional for garnish)
These ingredients come together to create a rich and tasty meal. The gnocchi is soft and chewy, and the sauce is full of flavor.
Recommended pantry staples
Keep these items in your pantry for easy access:
– Olive oil
– Garlic
– Red pepper flakes
– Canned crushed tomatoes
– Vegetable broth
– Sugar
– Dried oregano
– Salt
– Pepper
Having these staples on hand makes cooking easier. You can whip up this dish anytime you crave something warm and delicious.
Optional garnishes and toppings
For a little extra flair, consider these garnishes:
– Grated Parmesan cheese
– Extra fresh basil leaves
– A drizzle of olive oil
These toppings add flavor and a lovely presentation. They make your meal look just as good as it tastes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Preparing the base of the sauce
Start by heating 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot or deep skillet over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add 4 cloves of minced garlic and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture for about 30 seconds. Be careful; you do not want to burn the garlic. It should smell nice and fragrant. Next, pour in 1 can of crushed tomatoes and 1 cup of vegetable broth. Stir until well mixed. Add 1 teaspoon of sugar, 1 teaspoon of dried oregano, and salt and pepper to taste. This mix brings out the flavors. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
Cooking the gnocchi
Once the sauce is simmering, it’s time to add the gnocchi. Pour in 1 package (16 oz) of potato gnocchi. Gently stir to coat the gnocchi in the sauce. Cover the pot and cook for 2-3 minutes. You will know the gnocchi is ready when it floats to the top. This floating is a good sign that they are cooked through.
Adding the finishing touches
After the gnocchi cook, remove the pot from heat. Stir in 1 cup of chopped fresh basil. This will give your dish a fresh taste. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed. If you like, you can also sprinkle ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese on top for extra flavor. For a nice presentation, serve the gnocchi in bowls. Garnish with extra basil leaves and a drizzle of olive oil. Enjoy your meal!
Tips & Tricks
How to avoid burning garlic
Burnt garlic tastes bitter and can ruin your dish. To avoid this, keep an eye on the pan. Heat the oil on medium, not high. Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes together. Stir them quickly, and only cook for about 30 seconds. If you smell a strong aroma, it’s ready. If it starts to brown, remove it from heat right away.
Adjusting spice levels to taste
Spice levels can change a dish’s flavor. To adjust, start with a small amount of red pepper flakes. You can always add more later. Taste the sauce before adding the gnocchi. If it needs more heat, sprinkle in more flakes. Remember, it’s easier to add spice than to take it away.
Best practices for cooking gnocchi
Cooking gnocchi is simple but requires attention. When you add gnocchi to the pot, stir gently. This helps them coat with sauce but keeps them intact. Watch for them to float to the top. This means they are done. Remove the pot from heat right away to avoid overcooking. Also, adding fresh basil at the end gives a burst of flavor. Always taste and adjust your seasoning before serving!
Variations
Gluten-free gnocchi options
If you need gluten-free gnocchi, you have choices. Many brands offer gluten-free versions made from rice or corn flour. These options work well in this recipe. Just cook them the same way as regular gnocchi. Look for them in your local grocery store or online.
Adding protein like chicken or shrimp
For a heartier meal, add protein. Chicken or shrimp both work great. If using chicken, cut it into bite-sized pieces. Sauté it after the garlic in olive oil. Cook until it’s no longer pink. For shrimp, add them after the gnocchi, cooking until they turn pink and opaque. This adds flavor and makes your dish more filling.
Veggie-packed additions
You can easily add more veggies to your gnocchi dish. Spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers all add great taste. Chop them into small pieces and sauté them with the garlic. This boosts nutrition and flavor. Feel free to mix and match your favorite veggies for a custom touch!
Storage Info
Storing leftover One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Gnocchi
Store leftover gnocchi in an airtight container. This keeps the dish fresh. Place it in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to let it cool before sealing. This way, it won’t steam inside the container.
Reheating methods for best flavor
To reheat, a skillet works best. Heat it over medium-low heat. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent sticking. Stir gently until warmed through. This keeps the gnocchi soft and tasty. You can also use the microwave. Heat in short bursts, stirring in between. This helps heat evenly without drying it out.
Freezing guidelines for meal prep
You can freeze One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Gnocchi for later. Place it in a freezer-safe container. Make sure to leave some space for expansion. It can last up to three months in the freezer. To use, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned above for the best taste.
FAQs
Can I use homemade gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, you can use homemade gnocchi. Fresh gnocchi adds a nice touch to the dish. Just make sure it is cooked the same way as store-bought gnocchi. Homemade gnocchi may cook faster. Keep an eye on it when it is in the pot. As soon as it floats, it’s done!
What can I substitute for vegetable broth?
You can use chicken broth instead of vegetable broth. It adds a rich flavor to the dish. If you want a vegetarian option, use water with a bit of salt. You can also add more crushed tomatoes for depth. This will keep the dish tasty and satisfying.
How do I adjust this recipe for larger servings?
To make more servings, simply double or triple the ingredients. If you use a larger pot, it will help with cooking. Keep the same cooking times, but check the gnocchi. You want it to float, showing it’s ready. Adjust seasoning as needed for larger amounts.
In this blog post, we explored how to make One Pot Spicy Tomato Basil Gnocchi. We covered key ingredients and optional toppings to create a tasty dish. I shared step-by-step instructions on sauce prep and gnocchi cooking. You learned tips to avoid burning garlic and adjust spice. We also discussed fun variations like gluten-free options and protein adds. Finally, I provided storage tips to keep leftovers fresh. Cooking this meal is easy and fun. Try it out, and enjoy your delicious creation!
![Fresh spinach is the star of this soup. You will need 2 cups of roughly chopped spinach. This leafy green adds color and nutrients. Spinach is rich in vitamins A and C, making your soup healthy and vibrant. When you cook it, the spinach wilts and blends well with the other flavors. Tortellini brings heartiness to the soup. You can use fresh or frozen cheese tortellini, about 2 cups. Fresh tortellini cooks quickly, usually in 3-5 minutes. Frozen tortellini takes a bit longer. Whichever you choose, the soft pasta adds texture and a delightful bite to the creamy broth. Aromatics build the flavor base. You will need a medium onion, diced, and 3 minced garlic cloves. These add savory depth to the soup. A grated carrot, about one medium-sized, gives a touch of sweetness. Together, they create a warm, inviting aroma that fills your kitchen. Don't forget the olive oil! You will need 2 tablespoons to sauté the aromatics to perfection. For the full recipe, see the details above. To start, grab a large pot. Heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat. Add 1 diced onion and sauté it until it softens, about 4-5 minutes. Next, stir in 3 minced garlic cloves and 1 grated carrot. Cook this mix for another 2-3 minutes. The garlic should smell great at this point. This base gives the soup a rich flavor. Now, pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth. Bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add 2 cups of cheese tortellini. Follow the package instructions to cook them. Fresh tortellini usually takes about 3-5 minutes. You know they are ready when they float to the top. Reduce the heat to low. Stir in 2 cups of roughly chopped spinach, 1 cup of heavy cream, 1 teaspoon of dried basil, 1 teaspoon of salt, and 1/2 teaspoon of black pepper. Let the soup simmer for 5-7 minutes. This allows the spinach to wilt and the flavors to meld. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve it hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves if you wish. For the complete recipe, see the [Full Recipe]. To boost flavor, don't skip the onions and garlic. Sauté them well; it adds depth. A touch of dried basil brings warmth, while salt and pepper brighten all the tastes. If you want more zing, consider red pepper flakes. They give a lovely kick without overpowering the soup. Fresh herbs are also a great choice. Toss in some fresh basil or parsley right before serving for a fresh burst. If you like a thicker soup, add less broth or more cream. You can also use less tortellini. If the soup feels too thick, just stir in a bit more broth or water. This lets you control how creamy or brothy you want your soup. Using a hand blender can also help. Blend just a little bit to create a smoother base while keeping some chunks for texture. Cook the tortellini according to the package instructions. Fresh tortellini usually takes about 3-5 minutes. If you use frozen, check for the right cooking time. Adding them to boiling broth helps them cook quickly and evenly. They are done when they float to the top. Don’t forget to add them at the right time. If they overcook, they'll become mushy and lose their shape. Follow these tips to enjoy the perfect tortellini in your creamy soup. For more details, check the Full Recipe. {{image_2}} You can easily add protein to your creamy spinach tortellini soup. Chicken, turkey, or sausage work well. If you like shrimp, toss some in during the last few minutes of cooking. For a meatless option, try cooked lentils or chickpeas. These additions make your soup heartier and more filling. To make this soup vegan, swap out the heavy cream for coconut milk or cashew cream. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a rich base. Look for vegan tortellini in stores, or make your own with flour and water. Nutritional yeast can give a cheesy flavor without dairy. Feel free to mix in other veggies. Carrots and peas add sweetness and color. Zucchini or bell peppers can bring in fresh flavors. You can use frozen vegetables for convenience. Just add them during the cooking process so they heat through and blend well with the soup. For the full recipe, see the section above. After making the creamy spinach tortellini soup, let it cool to room temperature. Then, transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the fridge for up to three days. If you want to enjoy it later, make sure you seal it well. This keeps the flavors fresh and tasty. You can freeze this soup for longer storage. First, let the soup cool completely. Then, pour it into freezer-safe containers. Leave some space at the top for expansion. The soup can freeze for up to three months. When you’re ready to eat it, just thaw it in the fridge overnight. To reheat, pour the soup into a pot over medium heat. Stir often to avoid sticking. Heat until it’s warm all the way through. If the soup is too thick, add a little broth or water. This will help restore its creamy texture. Enjoy this comforting meal again, just like the first time. For the full recipe, check out the earlier sections. Yes, you can use frozen spinach. Just thaw it first and drain excess water. Frozen spinach is often picked at peak freshness, so it can taste great. However, fresh spinach offers a brighter taste and texture. If you like a more vibrant green, go for fresh. You can thicken the soup in a few ways. One method is to add a cornstarch slurry. Mix one tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Stir this into the soup and heat until it thickens. Another option is to blend part of the soup using an immersion blender. This keeps it creamy and rich. Parmesan cheese is a fantastic choice for adding flavor. It melts well and gives a nice salty kick. You can also try adding cream cheese for extra creaminess. If you want a stronger flavor, consider using sharp cheddar. Just sprinkle it in while the soup simmers for a delicious twist. For the complete recipe, check out the Full Recipe section. In this post, I covered the essentials for a delicious tortellini soup. We discussed key ingredients like fresh spinach, various tortellini, and aromatics. I provided step-by-step instructions for preparing and cooking your dish. I shared tips for enhancing flavors and adjusting texture. You also learned about tasty variations and proper storage methods. Remember, small swaps can greatly change your soup. Enjoy trying new flavors and make it your own! Your perfect tortellini soup awaits.](https://dailydishly.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/06/4c17d0e8-c88c-41b6-a4f3-bfc90cf6bf08-768x768.webp)
