Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe
Introduction
Gnocchi Bolognese is a comforting Italian dish that combines soft potato dumplings with a rich and savory meat sauce. Perfect for a cozy dinner, it’s simple to prepare yet full of flavor.
Ingredients
- Gnocchi – 500 grams
- Ground beef – 400 grams
- Tomato sauce – 2 cups
Instructions
- Step 1: In a large pan, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked, breaking it up as it cooks.
- Step 2: Add the tomato sauce to the cooked beef, stir well, and let it simmer for 10-15 minutes to develop flavor.
- Step 3: Meanwhile, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain well.
- Step 4: Toss the cooked gnocchi with the Bolognese sauce until evenly coated and heated through.
- Step 5: Serve immediately, optionally topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh herbs.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, sauté finely chopped onions and garlic with the beef before adding the tomato sauce.
- Try adding a splash of red wine to the sauce while it simmers for depth of flavor.
- Use fresh gnocchi if available for a lighter texture.
- Vegetarian option: substitute ground beef with lentils or finely chopped mushrooms.
Storage
Store leftover Gnocchi Bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat with a splash of water to prevent sticking, or microwave until heated through.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make the sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the Bolognese sauce can be prepared a day in advance and refrigerated. This often enhances the flavors. Simply reheat before tossing with the gnocchi.
What can I serve with Gnocchi Bolognese?
This dish pairs well with a fresh green salad, crusty bread, or steamed vegetables for a complete meal.
PrintGnocchi Bolognese Recipe
A classic Italian-inspired Gnocchi Bolognese recipe featuring soft potato gnocchi tossed in a rich, savory ground beef tomato sauce. This comforting dish combines tender gnocchi with a hearty meat sauce, perfect for an easy weeknight dinner or a cozy 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
For the Gnocchi
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
For the Bolognese Sauce
- 1 pound ground beef
- 2 cups tomato sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Bolognese Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic and sauté until translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
- Add Tomato Sauce: Pour in the tomato sauce and sprinkle in salt, pepper, and optional Italian herbs. Stir well to combine and reduce heat to low. Let the sauce simmer gently for about 15 minutes to develop the flavors, stirring occasionally.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
- Toss Gnocchi with Sauce: Add the cooked gnocchi to the simmering Bolognese sauce in the skillet. Gently toss to coat the gnocchi evenly with the sauce. Heat together for an additional 1-2 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Serve: Serve the Gnocchi Bolognese immediately, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil if desired.
Notes
- For a richer sauce, consider adding a splash of red wine during the sauce simmering step.
- Fresh gnocchi can be used instead of packaged for a more authentic texture.
- Leftover sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for longer storage.
- Vegetarian option: substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or sautéed mushrooms.
Keywords: Gnocchi Bolognese, Italian gnocchi, ground beef sauce, tomato sauce recipe, easy Italian dinner
