There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of gnocchi bolognese to wrap you in comfort after a long day. Seriously, this dish is the ultimate cozy meal, combining pillowy soft potato dumplings with a rich, savory meat sauce that just melts in your mouth. I first discovered this recipe during a chilly winter evening at my friend’s house, and it quickly became a staple in my kitchen. The way the flavors meld together is simply magic! Plus, it’s so satisfying to know that you can whip up such a hearty dish with just a few ingredients. Trust me, once you try it, gnocchi bolognese will become a beloved favorite in your home too!
Ingredients List
Here’s what you’ll need to create this delicious gnocchi bolognese. All the ingredients come together beautifully to create a comforting dish that’s perfect for any occasion!
- 2 cups potato gnocchi: Fresh or frozen, just make sure they’re cooked according to package instructions.
- 1 lb ground beef: You can also use ground turkey for a lighter option.
- 1 onion, chopped: A medium-sized onion works perfectly for that aromatic base.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds so much flavor, don’t skip this!
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes: This is the heart of your sauce, rich and full of flavor.
- 1/2 cup beef broth: For added depth, feel free to use homemade or store-bought.
- 1 tsp dried oregano: This herb infuses the sauce with a classic Italian touch.
- 1 tsp salt: Adjust to taste, but a little goes a long way!
- 1/2 tsp black pepper: Freshly cracked for the best flavor.
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese: To sprinkle on top for that irresistible finishing touch.
How to Prepare Gnocchi Bolognese
Making gnocchi bolognese is easier than you might think, and I promise, the end result is oh-so-satisfying! Let’s dive into the steps to create this comforting dish.
- First, cook the potato gnocchi according to the package instructions. This usually takes just a few minutes in boiling water. When they float to the top, they’re done! Drain them and set aside.
- While the gnocchi are cooking, it’s time to make the sauce. In a large skillet, heat a splash of olive oil over medium heat. You want it hot enough for sautéing but not smoking!
- Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Oh, the aroma is heavenly!
- Next, stir in the ground beef. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula until it’s nicely browned. You want all that delicious flavor to develop here.
- Once the beef is browned, pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth. Give it a good stir to combine everything. This is where the magic starts to happen!
- Add the dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Finally, gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the sauce, making sure they’re all coated in that lovely mixture. Serve hot, topped with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. Enjoy each comforting bite!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick to prepare—perfect for busy weeknights!
- Hearty and filling, it’s a meal that warms you from the inside out.
- Rich and savory flavor that’s sure to please everyone at the table.
- Simple ingredients make it easy to whip up anytime.
- Comfort food at its finest, bringing joy in every bite!
Tips for Success
To make the best gnocchi bolognese, here are my top tips! First, don’t overcrowd the skillet when browning the beef; give it space to sear and develop flavor. Also, always taste as you go—adjust the seasoning to your liking! If your sauce feels too thick, add a splash more beef broth or a bit of pasta water for the right consistency. And remember, letting the sauce simmer patiently allows those flavors to deepen, so don’t rush it! Lastly, a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley just before serving can brighten everything up. Trust me, these little touches make a big difference!
Variations
If you’re looking to mix things up with your gnocchi bolognese, there are plenty of delicious options! For a different protein, try using ground turkey or chicken instead of beef—it’s lighter but still packed with flavor. Want to add some veggies? Toss in diced bell peppers, mushrooms, or even spinach for a nutritious boost. You can also experiment with different herbs; fresh basil or thyme can elevate the dish even more. And if you’re feeling adventurous, consider adding a splash of red wine to the sauce for a deeper flavor. The possibilities are endless, so have fun with it!
Storage & Reheating Instructions
Storing your gnocchi bolognese is super simple! If you have leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just scoop out the portion you want and reheat it on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If it seems a bit thick, add a splash of beef broth or water to loosen it up. You can also pop it in the microwave for a quick fix—just cover it to prevent splatters. Enjoy your cozy meal all over again!
Nutritional Information
This gnocchi bolognese is not only comforting but also provides a hearty nutritional profile! Each serving is approximately 450 calories, with 20g of fat and 30g of protein—perfect for a filling meal. You’ll also find about 40g of carbohydrates and 2g of fiber to keep you satisfied. Just keep in mind that these values are estimates based on typical ingredients, so they may vary a bit. Enjoy a delicious meal while keeping your nutrition in check!
FAQ Section
Can I use homemade gnocchi for this recipe? Absolutely! Homemade potato gnocchi will elevate your gnocchi bolognese even more. Just make sure they’re cooked properly before adding to the sauce.
Is gnocchi bolognese suitable for freezing? Yes, you can freeze it! Just store the cooled dish in an airtight container. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat as instructed.
What can I serve with gnocchi bolognese? A side salad or some crusty garlic bread pairs beautifully with this dish. It adds a refreshing contrast!
Can I make it vegetarian? Of course! Simply swap the ground beef for a plant-based meat alternative, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian gnocchi bolognese!
Print
Gnocchi Bolognese: 7 Comforting Steps to Satisfy Cravings
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Gnocchi Bolognese is a hearty dish made with soft potato dumplings covered in a rich meat sauce.
Ingredients
- 2 cups potato gnocchi
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/2 cup beef broth
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions.
- In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat.
- Add onion and garlic, sauté until soft.
- Add ground beef, cook until browned.
- Stir in crushed tomatoes and beef broth.
- Add oregano, salt, and pepper; simmer for 20 minutes.
- Combine gnocchi with the sauce.
- Serve topped with Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a lighter option.
- Fresh basil can enhance the flavor.
- Serve with a side salad for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 20g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Keywords: gnocchi bolognese, potato gnocchi, meat sauce
