Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe

Gnocchi Bolognese is everything you crave in a comforting weeknight meal—pillowy potato gnocchi tossed in a rich, meaty sauce that’s bursting with tomato and savory garlic. This all-in-one skillet dish comes together in under 40 minutes, making it a dream for busy nights when you want something special but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen. Each bite combines crispy-edged gnocchi with tender beef and a zesty, crave-worthy sauce—think homemade Bolognese, but easier, and every bit as satisfying.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what brings this Gnocchi Bolognese together and why each ingredient is a star:

• Ground Beef: The foundation of this sauce; look for 85/15 for just the right amount of flavor and moisture.
• Potato Gnocchi: Soft and chewy—these little dumplings soak up all that delicious sauce and crisp up beautifully when pan-seared.
• Olive Oil: For caramelizing, crisping, and flavoring—don’t skimp! Use a good olive oil for the best taste.
• Red Pepper Flakes: Add warmth and a subtle kick; feel free to adjust the heat.
• Shallot: Brings a gentle, slightly sweet onion character without overpowering the sauce.
• Tomato Paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce for that classic, hearty Bolognese vibe.
• Cherry Tomatoes: Add pops of juiciness and texture; smashing them releases their sweetness right into the sauce.
• Garlic: There’s no such thing as too much garlic here—it creates that unmistakable Italian aroma and depth.
• Dried Oregano: Lends a fragrant, herby note that ties the sauce together.
• Salt & Black Pepper: For seasoning each layer and making all the other flavors shine.
• Water: Used to adjust the sauce’s consistency and help the gnocchi cook through.
• Parmesan Cheese (Optional): Adds salty richness and a gorgeous finish—highly recommended!
• Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley (Optional): For a fresh, peppery lift and a touch of color on top.

Tip: Don’t worry if you’re missing a few ingredients—there’s plenty of room for swaps and creative twists!

Variations

Gnocchi Bolognese is endlessly adaptable. Here are some ideas to make it uniquely yours:

• Veggie-Loaded: Stir chopped spinach or kale into the sauce a minute before combining everything for extra greens.
• Spice It Up: Use more red pepper flakes or a dash of chili oil if you like things fiery.
• Swap the Protein: Instead of beef, try pork, turkey, or even vegan ground meat for different flavors.
• Cheesier Bolognese: Add a handful of mozzarella or provolone for an even creamier, gooier finish.
• Lighten It Up: Use cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb spin, or use ground chicken.

How to Make Gnocchi Bolognese

Step 1: Brown the Beef

Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat. Add your ground beef and cook, breaking it into crumbles. Let it caramelize for 7-8 minutes, getting those flavorful bits, then leave it untouched for another 2-4 minutes so the meat develops even more crispy edges. When it’s beautifully browned, transfer to a plate.

Step 2: Crisp the Gnocchi

Without cleaning the pan (keep those tasty beefy drippings!), swirl in a bit more olive oil as needed, then add your gnocchi in a single layer. Let them sizzle undisturbed until they’re golden on the bottom—this is where the magic of crispy gnocchi happens. Flip, splash in a bit of water, and cook until the gnocchi are tender and toasty. Remove from the heat but keep them in the pan to stay warm.

Step 3: Build the Sauce

Meanwhile, set up another pan over medium-low. Add olive oil and red pepper flakes and let them bloom for a minute, so the oil turns beautifully red and fragrant. Turn up the heat and toss in your chopped shallot, stirring until translucent. Stir in the tomato paste and a little water; keep mixing until the paste deepens in color and smells irresistibly savory. Gradually add more water to make a saucy consistency, scraping up any yummy bits.

Step 4: Add Tomatoes and Seasonings

Add cherry tomatoes and cook until soft, about 5-6 minutes. Smash them gently so their juice thickens the sauce. Stir in minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper, then let everything simmer for an extra 5 minutes. The sauce will be glossy, thick, and loaded with flavor.

Step 5: Bring It All Together

Slide the crumbled beef and gnocchi into the sauce. Toss gently to coat every morsel—don’t forget any crispy edges hiding in the skillet! Top with grated Parmesan and a shower of chopped parsley right before serving.

How to Serve

This Gnocchi Bolognese is hearty enough to stand alone, but a few thoughtful additions make it unforgettable:

Garnish

A big handful of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh flat-leaf parsley brings a burst of color and extra flavor.

Sides

Pair with a crisp green salad or simple steamed veggies to round out the meal. Warm, crusty bread is fantastic for mopping up every drop of sauce (trust me, you’ll want to).

Wine

A glass of medium-bodied red wine—think Chianti or Pinot Noir—matches the richness of the dish perfectly.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors only get better as they mingle overnight.

Freezing

This dish freezes surprisingly well! Just cool completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, simply warm on the stove over medium heat with a splash of water to loosen the sauce. The microwave works in a pinch, but a quick sauté in a skillet brings back the gnocchi’s gorgeous texture.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a weeknight dinner that delivers on taste and comfort without a lot of hassle, Gnocchi Bolognese is ready to become your new go-to. It’s simple, totally satisfying, and perfect for anyone who loves Italian-inspired meals with a cozy twist. Give it a try, don’t stress the details, and most importantly—enjoy every delicious, saucy bite!

Print