Are you searching for a hearty and easy-to-make dish that combines savory flavors with comforting textures? Look no further than this Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe! Whether you're new to gnocchi or an experienced cook, this recipe is packed with flavor and perfect for family dinners or casual get-togethers. Follow along for everything you need to know—from ingredients to tips on perfecting your ground beef gnocchi. Keep reading to discover the secrets of this delicious dish and learn how to serve it like a pro!
What is Ground Beef Gnocchi?
Ground beef gnocchi combines fluffy potato dumplings, known as gnocchi, with seasoned ground beef in a rich and savory sauce. Gnocchi, a staple in Italian cuisine, is traditionally made from potatoes, flour, and eggs, providing a tender and slightly chewy texture. When paired with ground beef and a flavorful sauce, this dish becomes a satisfying meal that's both simple and sophisticated.
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Gnocchi
Before diving into the cooking process, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients on hand. Here's what you'll need for this recipe:
For the Gnocchi:
- 1 pound of potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- Salt, for boiling water
For the Ground Beef Sauce:
- 1 pound of ground beef (80% lean for best results)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) of diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes for a smoother sauce)
- 1 tablespoon of tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon of Italian seasoning (oregano, basil, and thyme)
- ½ teaspoon of red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- ½ cup beef broth (for added flavor and moisture)
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish
Substitutions and Variations
One of the best things about this ground beef gnocchi recipe is its versatility. You can easily make substitutions or adjustments depending on your taste preferences or dietary needs. Here are a few variations to consider:
Protein Substitutions:
- Ground turkey or chicken: Swap out the ground beef for leaner proteins like turkey or chicken. The flavor will be lighter, but still delicious.
- Sausage: For added spice and richness, use Italian sausage (either mild or hot) instead of ground beef.
Gnocchi Alternatives:
- Sweet potato gnocchi: For a slightly sweeter twist, use sweet potato gnocchi instead of the traditional version.
- Cauliflower gnocchi: If you're looking for a low-carb option, cauliflower gnocchi is a popular and delicious alternative.
Flavor Boosters:
- Add red wine: Pour a splash of red wine into the beef sauce for deeper flavor.
- Include veggies: Add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, or bell peppers to the sauce for added nutrition and texture.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Prepare the Gnocchi
- Begin by bringing a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions, usually around 2-3 minutes. The gnocchi will float to the top when they’re done.
- Drain the gnocchi and set them aside, tossing them with a little olive oil to prevent sticking.
2. Cook the Ground Beef
- In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté until softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef to the skillet and break it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 6-8 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Make the Sauce
- Once the ground beef is cooked, stir in the tomato paste and cook for another minute to develop its flavor.
- Pour in the diced tomatoes (or crushed tomatoes), beef broth, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir everything together and let the sauce simmer on low heat for 10-15 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
4. Combine Gnocchi and Sauce
- Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the ground beef and sauce. Gently stir to combine, making sure the gnocchi is well-coated with the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper, if needed.
5. Garnish and Serve
- Remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle the gnocchi with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil or parsley. Serve hot with extra Parmesan on the side.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Making ground beef gnocchi is straightforward, but there are a few pitfalls to watch out for:
- Overcooking the gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks very quickly. Make sure to remove them from the boiling water as soon as they float to the surface to avoid a mushy texture.
- Undercooking the beef: Ensure the ground beef is fully browned and no pink remains before adding the sauce ingredients. This will enhance the flavor of your dish.
- Not seasoning enough: Ground beef and gnocchi can taste bland without proper seasoning. Don’t forget to taste your sauce as you go and adjust with salt, pepper, and other spices.
Serving and Presentation Tips
When serving ground beef gnocchi, presentation can elevate this simple dish into something extra special. Here are a few tips to enhance your presentation:
How to Serve Ground Beef Gnocchi:
- Family-style: Serve ground beef gnocchi in a large skillet or dish at the center of the table, allowing guests to help themselves. This creates a casual and communal dining experience.
- Individual portions: Plate the gnocchi in individual bowls or shallow plates for a more refined presentation. Sprinkle additional Parmesan and fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and flavor.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Gnocchi:
- Garnish generously: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley not only add flavor but also make the dish look vibrant and appetizing.
- Extra cheese on the side: Offer a small dish of grated Parmesan on the side so guests can add as much as they like.
- Drizzle of olive oil: Finish each plate with a light drizzle of high-quality olive oil for added richness and shine.
Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe Tips
- Pre-cook the gnocchi: To save time, you can pre-cook the gnocchi and toss them with a little olive oil to prevent sticking. Just make sure to heat them up with the sauce before serving.
- Use homemade gnocchi: If you have the time, making your own gnocchi from scratch can elevate the dish to a whole new level. Homemade gnocchi is often lighter and more delicate than store-bought versions.
- Make ahead: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes! Frozen gnocchi works just as well as fresh or store-bought gnocchi. Just make sure to follow the package instructions for cooking times.
2. How can I make this recipe gluten-free?
To make this recipe gluten-free, simply use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure all other ingredients (like beef broth and seasonings) are gluten-free as well.
3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or sautéed vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, and eggplant for a hearty vegetarian version.
4. Can I freeze ground beef gnocchi?
Yes, you can freeze the cooked gnocchi with the beef sauce in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
5. What other types of cheese can I use?
You can try Pecorino Romano, Asiago, or even shredded mozzarella for a different cheese flavor.
Conclusion
Ground Beef Gnocchi is a comforting and versatile dish that's perfect for any night of the week. With tender gnocchi and a flavorful ground beef sauce, this meal is sure to be a hit with your family or guests. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or experiment with substitutions and variations, this dish offers endless possibilities. So grab your ingredients and get cooking! Once you’ve made this delicious dish, you’ll be coming back to it again and again.
Enjoy your meal, and don’t forget to share this recipe with others who are looking for an easy yet impressive dinner idea!
PrintGround Beef Gnocchi Recipe
Ground Beef Gnocchi is a quick, comforting meal featuring tender gnocchi, seasoned ground beef, and a flavorful tomato-based sauce. Perfect for weeknights, this dish is loaded with simple ingredients and bold flavors that are sure to satisfy.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh basil for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and cook until softened.
- Add minced garlic and ground beef. Cook until the beef is browned, breaking it apart as it cooks.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain.
- Combine the cooked gnocchi with the beef and tomato mixture in the skillet. Stir well to coat.
- Serve with grated Parmesan and fresh basil, if desired.
Notes
- You can add vegetables like spinach or bell peppers for added nutrition.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 780mg
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