Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe

User Reviews

5

15 reviews
Excellent
  • Prep Time

    5 mins

  • Cook Time

    35 mins

  • Total Time

    40 mins

  • Servings

    4 servings

  • Calories

    607 kcal

  • Cuisine

    gluten-free

Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe

The Gnocchi Bolognese recipe combines browned ground beef with seared potato gnocchi and a rich tomato-based sauce enhanced with garlic, shallots, oregano, and red pepper flakes. The gnocchi is cooked to a tender, lightly golden texture before being gently coated in the flavorful meat sauce, creating a hearty main dish with a balance of savory and mild heat. This preparation suits those seeking a comforting dish that highlights the soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi paired with a classic Bolognese flavor profile.

Description

Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe brings together sautéed ground beef and tender potato gnocchi in a sauce featuring tomato paste, cherry tomatoes, garlic, shallots, and herbs. The beef is cooked until browned and slightly crispy to add depth of flavor and texture. Gnocchi is then seared to form a light golden crust while remaining soft inside. The sauce is infused with garlic, oregano, and a touch of red pepper flakes for a gentle warmth. Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley offer optional finishing accents to enrich the dish.

The combination creates a comforting Italian-inspired plate where the gnocchi’s softness contrasts with the rich, chunky meat sauce. This dish makes a complete dinner and can be served on its own or with a simple salad or vegetable side to round out the meal.

Store-bought gnocchi or homemade versions with firm texture are suitable. The Bolognese sauce can be prepared ahead and refrigerated, then gently reheated and combined with freshly cooked gnocchi for ease of serving. Leftovers keep well refrigerated for a few days and reheat with a splash of water or broth to maintain consistency.

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Ingredients

Servings
  • 3-4 tablespoons olive oil divided
  • 1 pound ground beef 85/15 fat ratio
  • 1 pound potato gnocchi
  • 1 cup water divided
  • 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 1 shallot finely chopped
  • 3 tablespoons tomato paste
  • 1 pint cherry tomato
  • 4 cloves garlic finely minced
  • ¾ teaspoon oregano dried
  • 1 teaspoon salt to taste
  • ¼ teaspoon black pepper
  • Parmesan Cheese grated, optional
  • flat-leaf parsley finely chopped, optional, fresh

Instructions

  1. Add the ground beef to a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook, breaking apart, for about 7-8 minutes. Then, cook undisturbed for 2-4 more minutes, or until the meat is browned and slightly crispy. Transfer the beef to a clean plate and set aside.
  2. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil at a time to the leftover grease in the pan until there is enough oil to coat the bottom of the skillet. (You should only need about 1-2 tablespoons.) Add the gnocchi in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes, or until lightly golden. Flip, add 2-3 tablespoons of the water, and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until tender. Turn off the heat and let the gnocchi rest in the skillet.
  3. Meanwhile, in a separate pot or skillet over medium-low heat, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute, or until the flakes begin to release their color into the oil, stirring occasionally. Increase the heat to medium and add the diced shallot. Cook until the shallot is translucent, about 2 minutes.
  4. Stir in the tomato paste along with ¼ cup of the water. Cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, or until the paste is no longer bright red. Add in the remaining water, a few tablespoons at a time, mixing well after each addition.
  5. Stir the tomatoes into the sauce and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until they become tender. Once soft, smash the tomatoes with the back of a spatula or spoon until they burst. Add the garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper and continue simmering for 5 minutes.
  6. Mix the crumbled beef and seared gnocchi into the sauce. Serve with Parmesan cheese and parsley, if desired.

Notes

  • Different types of gnocchi, including shelf-stable, refrigerated, frozen, or homemade, can be used; ensure homemade gnocchi are firm enough for searing.
  • Ground beef with higher fat content enhances the sauce’s richness; substitute ground turkey if preferred.
  • Prepare the Bolognese sauce up to two days in advance and store it in the refrigerator to save time on serving day.
  • Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently adding broth or water if needed.

Nutrition Information

Show Details
Calories 607kcal (30%) Carbohydrates 50g (17%) Protein 26g (52%) Fat 34g (52%) Saturated Fat 11g (55%) Polyunsaturated Fat 2g (12%) Monounsaturated Fat 18g (90%) Trans Fat 1g (50%) Cholesterol 81mg (27%) Sodium 1162mg (48%) Potassium 735mg (16%) Fiber 5g (20%) Sugar 5g (10%) Vitamin A 917IU (18%) Vitamin C 31mg (34%) Calcium 79mg (8%) Iron 8mg (44%)

Nutrition Facts

Serving: 4servings

Amount Per Serving

Calories 607 kcal

% Daily Value*

Calories 607kcal 30%
Carbohydrates 50g 17%
Protein 26g 52%
Fat 34g 52%
Saturated Fat 11g 55%
Polyunsaturated Fat 2g 12%
Monounsaturated Fat 18g 90%
Trans Fat 1g 50%
Cholesterol 81mg 27%
Sodium 1162mg 48%
Potassium 735mg 16%
Fiber 5g 20%
Sugar 5g 10%
Vitamin A 917IU 18%
Vitamin C 31mg 34%
Calcium 79mg 8%
Iron 8mg 44%

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.

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15 reviews
Excellent

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