How to Make Tomato Basil Gnocchi Topped with Cottage Cheese

Have you ever craved something that tastes like an Italian restaurant meal but takes less than 30 minutes to make at home? Imagine soft, pillowy gnocchi coated in a rich tomato basil sauce, finished with a creamy dollop of cottage cheese that melts beautifully on top. Sounds fancy, right? But here’s the secret — it’s actually super simple to make.

If you’ve been looking for a comforting yet healthy dish that’s quick, affordable, and tastes like a hug in a bowl, this tomato basil gnocchi topped with cottage cheese is about to become your new favorite weeknight meal.

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This recipe is special because it blends comfort and freshness in the best way possible. The gnocchi delivers that soft, chewy bite everyone loves, the tomato basil sauce gives a bright and tangy depth, and the cottage cheese topping adds a creamy, protein-packed twist that feels indulgent but stays wholesome.

You don’t need to be a professional chef to pull this off — it’s perfect for beginners or anyone who wants restaurant-quality food with minimal fuss.

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes
• Difficulty: Easy
• Serves: 2 to 3 people

This dish is also budget-friendly and versatile — you can use store-bought gnocchi, a jar of tomato sauce, or make everything from scratch if you’re feeling fancy.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make tomato basil gnocchi topped with cottage cheese:

For the Gnocchi and Sauce:

• 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes or tomato passata
• 1 tablespoon tomato paste (for a richer flavor)
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional, to balance acidity)
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for a hint of spice)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• A handful of fresh basil leaves, torn or chopped
• Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Topping:

• ½ cup cottage cheese (use small curd for creamier texture)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan or mozzarella (optional)
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Substitutions and Variations

• Gnocchi: Use whole wheat, cauliflower, or spinach gnocchi for a healthier option.
• Sauce: You can substitute crushed tomatoes with marinara sauce or roasted red pepper sauce.
• Cottage cheese: Swap with ricotta, burrata, or mascarpone for a richer version.
• Vegan option: Use vegan gnocchi and top with cashew cream or tofu ricotta.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi

1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
2. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface — this usually takes 2–3 minutes.
3. Once they rise, remove them with a slotted spoon and transfer them to a plate.
4. For a little extra flavor, you can lightly pan-sear the gnocchi in a bit of olive oil until golden on the edges. This adds a nice crispy texture!

Step 2: Make the Tomato Basil Sauce

1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 30 seconds — be careful not to burn it.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to deepen the flavor.
4. Add the crushed tomatoes, oregano, sugar, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 5–7 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Toss in the fresh basil leaves and stir until just wilted.

Step 3: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

1. Add the cooked gnocchi directly to the pan with the sauce.
2. Stir gently to coat each piece with the tomato basil mixture.
3. Simmer for another 2 minutes to let the gnocchi absorb some of the sauce’s flavor.

Step 4: Add the Creamy Topping

1. Once plated, top each serving with a generous spoonful of cottage cheese.
2. If you’d like, sprinkle some grated Parmesan or mozzarella on top.
3. Garnish with a few fresh basil leaves for a vibrant, restaurant-style finish.

Assembly and Presentation Tips

For a picture-perfect presentation:

• Use a shallow white bowl to make the colors pop.
• Add the gnocchi first, then spoon sauce over it to create contrast.
• Place the cottage cheese dollop in the center and drizzle a few drops of olive oil on top.
• Finish with fresh basil leaves and a sprinkle of black pepper.

This dish looks stunning, smells divine, and tastes even better.

Storage and Make-Ahead Tips

• Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a pan with a splash of water or in the microwave at medium heat. Add a bit of extra sauce if needed.
• Make-ahead: You can prepare the tomato basil sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 4 days or freeze it for a month.
• Cottage cheese tip: Add the topping fresh when serving for the best texture — avoid reheating it directly, as it may separate.

Recipe Variations

There are endless ways to customize this recipe:

1. Spinach Gnocchi with Tomato Cream Sauce:
   Stir a handful of fresh spinach into the sauce and add a splash of cream for a richer twist.
2. Spicy Tomato Gnocchi:
   Add extra chili flakes or diced jalapeños to bring some heat.
3. Baked Gnocchi Casserole:
   Combine gnocchi and sauce in a baking dish, top with mozzarella, and bake until bubbly.
4. Mediterranean Gnocchi Bowl:
   Add olives, roasted red peppers, and sun-dried tomatoes for a more complex flavor profile.
5. High-Protein Version:
   Mix the cottage cheese directly into the sauce for extra creaminess and protein.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & easy: Ready in under 30 minutes.
• Healthy comfort food: Packed with protein and nutrients without being heavy.
• Versatile: Works as a main course, side dish, or even a meal prep option.
• Budget-friendly: Uses affordable, simple ingredients that deliver restaurant-level flavor.

Conclusion

Cooking doesn’t have to be complicated to be delicious. This tomato basil gnocchi topped with cottage cheese proves that simple ingredients can come together to create something extraordinary. With its soft dumplings, rich tomato sauce, and creamy topping, every bite feels like pure comfort.

Whether you’re making dinner for yourself, your family, or impressing a guest, this recipe is bound to become a go-to favorite. Don’t be afraid to experiment — add your twist, play with herbs, or swap in different cheeses. That’s the beauty of homemade meals — they’re always yours to make special.

FAQs

1. Can I use homemade gnocchi?
Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi adds an extra layer of freshness. Just make sure not to over-knead the dough to keep them light and fluffy.

2. Is cottage cheese a healthy topping?
Yes. Cottage cheese is high in protein and calcium, making it a healthier, lighter option than heavy cream or ricotta.

3. Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes! Use vegan gnocchi (some store-bought versions contain egg) and replace the cottage cheese with vegan ricotta or cashew cream.

4. How can I make the sauce creamier?
Add a tablespoon of cream or a spoonful of cottage cheese into the sauce before mixing with the gnocchi.

5. What can I serve with this dish?
A side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables complement it beautifully.

6. How do I keep gnocchi from getting soggy?
Avoid overcooking and, if possible, pan-sear them briefly after boiling to add texture and prevent sogginess.

This comforting, vibrant, and protein-packed tomato basil gnocchi topped with cottage cheese is proof that simple meals can still feel gourmet. Once you try it, it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation — quick, cozy, and utterly satisfying.