Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe
If ever there was a dish that could deliver pure, joyful comfort in every bite, it’s Gnocchi Bolognese. Imagine pillowy-soft gnocchi swimming in a rich, aromatic beef sauce that’s slow-simmered with red wine, fresh herbs, and just the right punch of tomato. This is the kind of dinner that makes you want to gather everyone around the table and savor each spoonful. Even better, Gnocchi Bolognese is surprisingly straightforward to make, and every ingredient plays its part in crafting that perfect Italian-inspired hug in a bowl!
Ingredients You’ll Need
Let’s talk about the all-stars behind this irresistible Gnocchi Bolognese. Each ingredient keeps the recipe classic but adds a little something special – from the delicate gnocchi to the robust, savory sauce and the vibrant finish of fresh herbs. Here’s what you need and why you need it:
- Olive oil: The foundation of the sauce, providing a flavorful fat for sautéing and bringing a lovely depth.
- Onion: Adds natural sweetness and a touch of heartiness to the sauce’s base.
- Carrot: Brings balance and a subtle earthy sweetness that rounds out the richness.
- Celery: Gives aromatic flavor and texture, creating the true backbone of a traditional Bolognese.
- Garlic: Infuses the sauce with that irresistible, mouth-watering aroma.
- Lean ground beef: The key protein, building the meaty body of Gnocchi Bolognese.
- Dry red wine: Deepens the flavor, adding complexity and a hint of acidity that pairs perfectly with the beef.
- Tomato paste: Packs in umami and a vibrant, concentrated tomato punch.
- Fresh thyme: Adds aromatic, woodsy notes that lift the sauce.
- Fresh rosemary: Gives the sauce an earthy perfume and Mediterranean character.
- Red chili flakes: Just a gentle kick to keep every bite lively.
- Crushed tomatoes: The saucy backbone, contributing acidity, color, and that luscious texture.
- Beef stock: Enhances savoriness and produces a glossy, rich sauce.
- Bay leaves: Impart a subtle, herbal dimension as the sauce simmers.
- Gnocchi: Soft dumplings that soak up all the sauce, turning the meal from good to glorious.
- Grated Parmesan: Melts into the sauce and finishes the dish with a luxurious, salty kick.
- Fresh basil leaves: Sprinkle on just before serving for sweet, aromatic brightness.
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: Essential for bringing all the flavors into perfect harmony.
How to Make Gnocchi Bolognese
Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables
Heat olive oil in a large, deep pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Toss in your diced onion, carrot, and celery and let them cook for about 8–10 minutes. Stir often and give them time to soften and just start to caramelize — this builds a base of sweetness and depth for your Gnocchi Bolognese sauce.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Brown the Beef
Next, introduce the chopped garlic, letting it sizzle and become fragrant for about a minute. Add the lean ground beef, using your spoon to break it up. Let it cook for 5–6 minutes, just until browned through. This combination of vegetables, garlic, and perfectly browned meat is what makes Gnocchi Bolognese so soul-satisfying.
Step 3: Pour in the Wine
Now for the fun part: pour in your dry red wine. Stir well and let it bubble for 1–2 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate while keeping all that deep, complex flavor locked in.
Step 4: Add the Herbs and Tomato Paste
Stir in your tomato paste, fresh thyme, rosemary, and those lively red chili flakes. Let everything blend together—these seasonings will keep your sauce singing with flavor right to the end.
Step 5: Simmer the Sauce
Time to create magic! Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef stock, and toss in the bay leaves. Bring it all to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer, uncovered, for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally and watch as your sauce thickens, becoming rich and aromatic—this is where the Gnocchi Bolognese really finds its soul.
Step 6: Cook the Gnocchi
While the sauce is making your kitchen smell heavenly, bring a large pot of water to a boil and salt it generously. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions—they’ll float to the top when they’re ready, which typically takes just a couple of minutes.
Step 7: Finish and Serve
Fish out the bay leaves, then stir the cooked gnocchi into your bubbling sauce. Add the grated Parmesan and scatter over the fresh basil leaves. Taste and adjust with salt and black pepper as needed. Serve up your Gnocchi Bolognese immediately, with extra Parmesan for good measure!
How to Serve Gnocchi Bolognese
Garnishes
The best way to finish Gnocchi Bolognese is with a cascade of extra Parmesan, a scattering of torn basil, and a twist of freshly ground black pepper. A drizzle of peppery olive oil or even a smattering of chopped parsley adds beautiful color and aroma. You can even add a dash of chili flakes if your crowd likes a little extra heat.
Side Dishes
Keep it classic and pair your Gnocchi Bolognese with a crisp green salad, lightly dressed with lemon and olive oil. Warm, crusty Italian bread is perfect for soaking up every last bit of sauce. For a heartier meal, add roasted garlic broccoli or a platter of marinated olives—the Italian way!
Creative Ways to Present
For a fabulous dinner-party presentation, spoon Gnocchi Bolognese into shallow bowls and top with basil leaves arranged into a “flower.” Or bake individual portions in mini cast iron skillets and finish under the broiler with a cheesy crust. For kid-friendly fun, let everyone sprinkle on their own toppings at the table for a playful, interactive meal.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any remaining Gnocchi Bolognese (and that’s a big “if”), store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors meld and deepen overnight, making leftovers almost as good—if not better—than fresh.
Freezing
To freeze Gnocchi Bolognese, cool the sauce completely and transfer it to a sealed, airtight container. Store for up to 2 months. For best texture, consider freezing the sauce and gnocchi separately; cooked gnocchi can get a little soft after thawing, but the sauce remains just as rich and delicious. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat Gnocchi Bolognese on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock if the sauce is too thick. If using the microwave, cover loosely and heat in one-minute bursts, stirring between each interval to avoid hot spots and keep the texture just right. Top with fresh Parmesan and basil to brighten everything back up!
FAQs
Can I use ground turkey or pork instead of beef?
Absolutely! Ground turkey or pork makes a lighter but still flavorful Gnocchi Bolognese. If you use turkey, you might want to add a drizzle of olive oil for extra richness, since it’s leaner than beef.
Is it possible to make Gnocchi Bolognese vegetarian?
Definitely. Simply substitute the ground beef for your favorite plant-based ground meat or use a mix of finely chopped mushrooms and lentils. Swap out beef stock for vegetable broth, and the rest of the recipe stays just as delicious and hearty.
How do I keep the gnocchi from turning mushy?
Cook the gnocchi just until they float to the surface, then drain and immediately toss with the sauce. Don’t let them sit in water or overcook—they’re delicate dumplings and will soak up flavor and hold their texture best when handled gently.
Can I use homemade gnocchi?
Oh yes, and if you do, your Gnocchi Bolognese will be next-level! Simply follow your favorite homemade gnocchi recipe, and cook them right before tossing with the Bolognese sauce for the ultimate comfort dish.
What wine should I serve with Gnocchi Bolognese?
A medium-bodied red wine, such as Chianti, Sangiovese, or Barbera, is perfect alongside Gnocchi Bolognese. Their acidity and fruitiness balance out the rich sauce beautifully — but honestly, pour whatever you love most!
Final Thoughts
There’s something magical about sharing Gnocchi Bolognese with the people you love. It’s hearty, deeply flavorful, and guaranteed to warm your heart as much as your stomach. Whether it’s a casual weeknight or a special dinner, give this recipe a try and experience the joy in every bite. Your table is about to get a whole lot cozier!
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Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe
- Total Time: 1 hour
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- Diet: None
Description
A comforting and hearty dish, Gnocchi Bolognese combines pillowy gnocchi with a rich, flavorful beef Bolognese sauce. This recipe is perfect for a cozy family dinner or a special weekend meal.
Ingredients
For the Bolognese:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 medium carrot, finely diced
- 2 celery stalks, finely diced
- 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
- 1 lb (500 g) lean ground beef
- 1/2 cup (100 ml) dry red wine
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 2 cans (14 oz / 400 g each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 cup (250 ml) beef stock
- 2 bay leaves
For the Gnocchi:
- 1 1/2 lb (900 g) gnocchi
- 1/3 cup (30 g) grated Parmesan
- 6–8 fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Heat olive oil in a large pan, cook onion, carrot, and celery until soft.
- Add Beef: Add garlic and ground beef, cook until browned.
- Deglaze: Pour in wine, let it reduce.
- Add Flavorings: Stir in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and chili flakes.
- Simmer Sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, beef stock, bay leaves, simmer for 15 minutes.
- Cook Gnocchi: Cook gnocchi in boiling water.
- Combine: Mix cooked gnocchi, Parmesan, and basil into the sauce.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and pepper, serve hot with extra Parmesan.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option.
- Feel free to add more vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms.
- For a vegetarian version, use plant-based crumbles instead of beef.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 43g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 32g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: Gnocchi Bolognese, Gnocchi Recipe, Bolognese Sauce, Italian Pasta Dish
