1. Start the Sauce Base: Begin by heating a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the olive oil and butter. Once the butter has melted and is sizzling, toss in the finely chopped yellow onion. Sauté for 4-5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion has softened and become translucent.

2. Bloom the Aromatics: Next, add the minced garlic, dried oregano, and optional red pepper flakes to the skillet. Cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly, until the garlic becomes fragrant. Be mindful not to let the garlic burn, as it can quickly turn bitter. This crucial step helps to build a deep, complex flavor profile for the sauce.

3. Simmer the Tomato Sauce: Pour the can of crushed tomatoes into the skillet, then stir in the optional sugar and season generously with salt and black pepper. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it cook for at least 10-15 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors to meld and deepen, creating a truly exceptional tomato sauce.

4. Cook the Gnocchi: While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, usually until they float to the surface. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the cooked gnocchi directly into the simmering tomato sauce.

5. Finish the Sauce: Reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and Parmesan cheese until they melt into a velvety, creamy sauce. Finally, add the chopped basil, gently stirring just until the leaves wilt.

6. Combine & Serve: Toss the gnocchi in the luscious creamy tomato sauce, ensuring every pillow-soft bite is coated in the delectable mixture. Garnish with extra Parmesan cheese or fresh basil, if desired. Serve this Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi piping hot, and prepare to be transported to Italian culinary bliss!