Irresistible Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe for Cozy Dinners

Imagine sinking your teeth into pillowy gnocchi, lovingly coated in a rich, meaty Bolognese sauce that’s been simmering for hours. The aroma wafts through your kitchen, making you feel like a gourmet chef even if you’re still wearing your pajamas. Gnocchi Bolognese is not just a dish; it’s an experience that wraps you in warmth and satisfaction with every bite.

This delightful recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing friends at a dinner party. The combination of tender potato dumplings and hearty meat sauce creates a flavor explosion that will leave everyone asking for seconds. Let’s dive into this culinary adventure together.

Sharing this dish with my family always brings smiles and compliments around the table. It’s become our go-to recipe for special occasions and lazy Sundays alike.

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

• Gnocchi: You can use store-bought or homemade gnocchi; both offer delightful textures but homemade adds a personal touch.

• Ground Beef: Lean ground beef works best; it gives the sauce the right richness without being overly greasy.

• Onion: A medium onion, finely chopped, provides a sweet base flavor when sautéed until translucent.

• Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves minced to perfection elevate the aromatic profile of your Bolognese sauce.

• Canned Tomatoes: Use crushed tomatoes for a smooth sauce; they add depth and acidity, balancing the flavors beautifully.

• Olive Oil: A good quality extra virgin olive oil enhances the overall flavor of the sauce; use it generously!

• Italian Herbs: A mix of oregano and basil adds classic Italian flavors; dried herbs are fine but fresh ones are recommended.

• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan will take your dish to another level; sprinkle generously before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

How to Make Gnocchi Bolognese

Sautéing the Aromatics: Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and cook until they turn translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes. Then stir in minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute until golden.

Browning the Meat: Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned all over, about 8 minutes. Ensure there are no pink spots left—this is key for rich flavor development.

Add in the Sauce Ingredients: Pour in crushed tomatoes along with dried herbs like oregano and basil. Stir well to combine everything and let it simmer gently for about 15 minutes, allowing all those lovely flavors to meld together.

Cook the Gnocchi: Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the surface—this usually takes just a few minutes!

Combine Everything Together: Once gnocchi is cooked, drain them and add directly into the Bolognese sauce. Toss gently to coat each piece evenly in that delicious sauce!

Serve with Flair!: Plate your Gnocchi Bolognese with gusto! Top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and perhaps a sprig of basil for that Instagram-worthy finish before digging in.

Now that you’ve made Gnocchi Bolognese, grab that fork because every bite promises comfort wrapped in nostalgia! Enjoy this delicious creation that brings warmth not just through its flavors but also through shared moments around your dining table!

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by boiling the gnocchi until they float, then sauté the sauce ingredients while it’s cooking. This way, everything comes together seamlessly, creating a deliciously harmonious dish.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap ground beef for turkey or even mushrooms for a vegetarian twist. Toss in some spinach or bell peppers for extra color and nutrients, making this dish truly your own.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat with a splash of water to keep the gnocchi tender.

Every time I make Gnocchi Bolognese, my friends rave about it! One evening, I crafted this dish for a gathering; everyone begged for the recipe!

FAQ

Can I freeze Gnocchi Bolognese?

Yes, freezing is possible! Just ensure it’s stored in an airtight container.

How long does it take to cook gnocchi?

Cooking gnocchi typically takes 2-3 minutes once added to boiling water.

What can I serve with Gnocchi Bolognese?

Pair it with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

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Gnocchi Bolognese

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• Author: Jennifer
• Total Time: 45 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Gnocchi Bolognese is a comforting dish that combines soft, pillowy gnocchi with a rich, savory meat sauce. This delightful recipe is perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests at gatherings. With its aromatic blend of garlic and Italian herbs, every bite promises a burst of flavor that wraps you in warmth. Easy to prepare yet sophisticated enough for special occasions, Gnocchi Bolognese will quickly become a favorite in your household.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 lb lean ground beef
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 28 oz canned crushed tomatoes
• 2 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp dried basil
• ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

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Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onions and sauté until translucent (about 5 minutes). Stir in minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
2. Add ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned (about 8 minutes), ensuring no pink spots remain.
3. Pour in crushed tomatoes along with oregano and basil. Stir well and let simmer for about 15 minutes.
4. In a separate pot, bring salted water to a boil. Add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float (about 2-3 minutes).
5. Drain the cooked gnocchi and add them directly into the Bolognese sauce. Toss gently to coat.
6. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Sautéing
• Cuisine: Italian

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 cup (240g)
• Calories: 450
• Sugar: 6g
• Sodium: 600mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 8g
• Unsaturated Fat: 14g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 46g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 20g
• Cholesterol: 60mg