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Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe

4.9 from 150 reviews

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.

Ingredients

Scale

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

  1. 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.
  2. 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.
  3. 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.
  4. 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.
  5. 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.
  6. 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