A comforting one-pan dish made with pillowy gnocchi, blistered cherry tomatoes, fresh herbs, and a rich, creamy sauce—finished with luxurious burrata cheese. This recipe brings together the richness of Italian flavors in a simple, satisfying meal ideal for any night of the week.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This creamy tomato burrata gnocchi skillet combines convenience and indulgence in one dish. It’s made in just one pan, cutting down on cleanup, and delivers big on flavor with roasted cherry tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, and a luscious cream sauce. The final touch of burrata adds a decadent finish that makes this meal restaurant-worthy without the hassle. Whether you’re hosting guests or enjoying a cozy dinner at home, this dish is sure to impress.

ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• 1 lb potato gnocchi
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 1/2 cups cherry tomatoes (mixed colors)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 1 cup heavy cream (or coconut cream for dairy-free)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese (or vegan alternative)
• 1/3 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes
• 1 ball fresh burrata cheese, torn into chunks
• Fresh basil, chopped (for garnish)

directions

1. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add cherry tomatoes and cook for 5–6 minutes until blistered and softened.
2. Add minced garlic, red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the sun-dried tomatoes and Parmesan cheese. Stir until cheese melts and sauce thickens slightly.
5. Gently fold in the gnocchi and cook for 3–4 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to soak up the sauce.
6. Turn off the heat, and nestle chunks of burrata on top of the hot gnocchi. Let sit for 2–3 minutes to allow burrata to melt slightly.
7. Garnish with fresh basil and serve immediately.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Vegan Option: Use coconut cream instead of dairy cream, vegan Parmesan, and replace burrata with a vegan soft cheese substitute.
• Spicy Kick: Increase red pepper flakes or add a drizzle of chili oil before serving.
• Protein Boost: Stir in grilled chicken, Italian sausage, or chickpeas for extra protein.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi available in most health food stores.
• Herb Swap: Replace oregano with thyme or rosemary for a different aromatic profile.

storage/reheating

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, warm the gnocchi gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce if needed. Avoid microwaving burrata directly; add fresh burrata after reheating if possible for best texture.

FAQs

What is burrata cheese and how is it different from mozzarella?

Burrata is a soft Italian cheese made from mozzarella and cream. While mozzarella is firm and stretchy, burrata has a creamy, rich center that oozes when cut.

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used. There is no need to boil them first—add them directly to the sauce as instructed.

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

It can be prepared ahead, but for best results, add the burrata fresh before serving.

What can I substitute for burrata?

You can use fresh mozzarella or a dollop of ricotta cheese if burrata is unavailable.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, substitute coconut cream for heavy cream, and use dairy-free cheese alternatives.

What type of tomatoes are best for this recipe?

Mixed cherry tomatoes are ideal for flavor and color, but any small, ripe tomatoes will work.

Do I need to pre-cook the gnocchi?

No, the gnocchi cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing flavor and softening in texture.

Can I add greens to this recipe?

Yes, spinach or kale can be stirred in during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level is mild with the listed amount of red pepper flakes. Adjust to your preference.

Can I freeze leftovers?

It is not recommended to freeze due to the creamy sauce and burrata, which may not reheat well.

Conclusion

Creamy Tomato Burrata Gnocchi Skillet is a weeknight winner that brings comforting Italian flavors to your table with minimal effort. Its rich texture, vibrant ingredients, and ease of preparation make it a reliable favorite for casual dinners and elegant occasions alike. With customizable options and quick cooking time, this dish is a perfect addition to any home cook’s repertoire.

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