Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe
Introduction
Gnocchi Bolognese is a comforting twist on the classic Italian meat sauce, pairing tender potato dumplings with a rich, flavorful beef ragu. This simple yet satisfying dish comes together quickly and makes for a perfect weeknight meal.
Ingredients
- 1 lb store-bought gnocchi
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup red wine
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Fresh basil, for garnish
- Parmesan cheese, for garnish
Instructions
- Step 1: Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Once done, drain and set aside.
- Step 2: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
- Step 3: Add the ground beef to the skillet. Cook, breaking it apart with a spoon, until it is fully browned and cooked through.
- Step 4: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red wine, and dried oregano. Bring the sauce to a simmer, and let it cook gently for about 15 minutes to develop flavor.
- Step 5: Toss the cooked gnocchi directly into the sauce, coating them well. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Tips & Variations
- For a richer sauce, try adding a splash of cream or a pat of butter after simmering the tomato sauce.
- If you prefer a vegetarian option, substitute the ground beef with cooked lentils or finely chopped mushrooms.
- Use fresh basil for a bright, herbal note, or try adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
- Make the sauce ahead and refrigerate; it often tastes better the next day once flavors meld.
Storage
Store leftover gnocchi Bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use homemade gnocchi instead of store-bought?
Absolutely. Fresh homemade gnocchi will give a tender, pillowy texture and pair beautifully with the Bolognese sauce.
What can I substitute for red wine in the sauce?
If you prefer not to use wine, you can substitute with beef broth or simply omit it. The sauce will still be flavorful thanks to the tomatoes and herbs.
PrintGnocchi Bolognese Recipe
A comforting and easy-to-make Gnocchi Bolognese featuring tender store-bought gnocchi tossed in a rich, savory ground beef and tomato sauce, enhanced with garlic, onion, red wine, and aromatic herbs, finished with fresh basil and parmesan for a classic Italian-inspired meal.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Gnocchi
- 1 lb store-bought gnocchi
Sauce
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) crushed tomatoes
- 1/4 cup red wine
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
Garnish
- Fresh basil
- Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the store-bought gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, usually until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Drain and set aside.
- Sauté aromatics: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic, and sauté until softened and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
- Brown the beef: Add the ground beef to the skillet with the onions and garlic. Cook, breaking up the meat with a spoon, until browned and no longer pink, about 6-8 minutes.
- Simmer the sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red wine, and dried oregano. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Reduce heat to low and cook uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally, allowing the flavors to meld and the sauce to thicken slightly.
- Toss gnocchi in sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi directly into the skillet with the sauce. Gently toss to coat the gnocchi evenly with the Bolognese sauce and warm through for 1-2 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Remove from heat. Serve the gnocchi Bolognese warm, garnished with fresh basil leaves and a generous sprinkle of grated parmesan cheese.
Notes
- You can substitute ground beef with ground turkey or plant-based meat for variation.
- Adding a splash of cream or milk to the sauce can create a richer texture.
- If you want more depth, add a diced carrot or celery when sautéing the onion and garlic.
- Red wine is optional; use beef broth if you prefer non-alcoholic.
- Fresh basil can be replaced with parsley or oregano as garnish.
Keywords: Gnocchi Bolognese, Italian gnocchi recipe, ground beef sauce, easy Italian dinner, quick bolognese sauce
