Gnocchi Bolognese

Gnocchi Bolognese is the ultimate comfort food! If you’re looking for a cozy meal that warms your heart and fills your belly, you’ve come to the right place. This dish is all about soft, pillowy gnocchi paired with a rich and savory Bolognese sauce made from lean ground beef and aromatic vegetables. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a hit at family gatherings, bringing everyone together around the table for a delightful dining experience.

What makes this Gnocchi Bolognese special? It’s not just easy to make; it’s also bursting with flavor and can be customized to suit your taste. Let me guide you through this recipe that’s sure to become a favorite in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, you can whip up a delicious dinner in no time.
• Family-Friendly: The combination of gnocchi and savory sauce appeals to both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This dish tastes even better the next day, so it’s perfect for meal prep or leftovers.
• Wholesome Ingredients: Packed with fresh vegetables and lean protein, it’s a nutritious choice without sacrificing taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this Gnocchi Bolognese, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Let’s gather them up!

For the Sauce

• 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 apple vinegar
• 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

To Finish

• 1/3 cup (30 g) grated Parmesan
• 6-8 fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Variations

The beauty of Gnocchi Bolognese lies in its flexibility! Here are some fun variations to try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option while still keeping it delicious.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Make it spicy: Increase the red chili flakes or add some diced jalapeños if you like a kick!
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the beef with lentils for a hearty plant-based version that still satisfies.

How to Make Gnocchi Bolognese

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce

Heat the olive oil in a large pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté these aromatic veggies for about 8-10 minutes until they soften. This step is crucial as it builds a flavorful base for your sauce!

Step 2: Brown the Beef

Now it’s time to add in the garlic and cook for another minute before adding the ground beef. Break it down with your spoon as it cooks for about 5-6 minutes until browned. This browning process adds wonderful depth to your sauce.

Step 3: Add Flavorful Ingredients

Stir in the apple vinegar and let it cook for 1-2 minutes so any harsh flavors evaporate. Then mix in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and red chili flakes. Combining these flavors now creates a fragrant mixture that will bring joy to your kitchen!

Step 4: Simmer Away

Next, pour in those crushed tomatoes along with beef stock and bay leaves. Bring everything to a boil before lowering the heat to let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes. Stir occasionally—this allows those flavors to meld beautifully.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

While your sauce is thickening up nicely, bring a large pot of water to boil. Salt it generously before cooking your gnocchi according to package directions—this usually takes just a few minutes!

Step 6: Combine & Serve

Once your sauce has thickened up perfectly, stir in those cooked gnocchi along with Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Season everything with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately and don’t forget an extra sprinkle of Parmesan on top if you desire!

Now that you’ve made this delightful Gnocchi Bolognese, I hope it brings warmth into your home just as it has mine! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Gnocchi Bolognese

Cooking is all about enjoying the process, and these tips will help you create an even more delightful Gnocchi Bolognese!

• Use fresh herbs: Fresh thyme and rosemary add vibrant flavor to your sauce, making it taste more aromatic and delicious compared to dried herbs.
• Don’t rush the simmering: Allowing the sauce to simmer for at least 15 minutes helps deepen the flavors. This gives the tomatoes a chance to meld beautifully with the other ingredients.
• Cook gnocchi just right: Follow the package instructions carefully when cooking your gnocchi. Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy, while perfectly cooked ones will hold their shape and add a lovely texture.
• Adjust the spiciness: If you prefer a milder dish, feel free to reduce or omit the red chili flakes. On the other hand, if you like it spicy, add a pinch more for an extra kick!
• Make it ahead of time: This sauce can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to three days or frozen for later. Reheating it allows all those wonderful flavors to develop even further.

How to Serve Gnocchi Bolognese

Serving Gnocchi Bolognese can be as simple or as elegant as you desire! Here are some ideas that will make your meal shine.

Garnishes

• Fresh basil leaves: Adding a few whole or torn fresh basil leaves not only enhances the dish’s appearance but also contributes a burst of fresh flavor.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan on top gives your dish a creamy finish and elevates its presentation.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: A warm loaf of garlic bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce. Its crispy exterior and buttery interior complement the soft gnocchi wonderfully!
• Mixed greens salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a simple vinaigrette adds freshness to your meal, balancing out the rich flavors of the Gnocchi Bolognese.
• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli not only adds vibrant color but also provides a nutritious contrast to the hearty pasta dish.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots bring sweetness and texture that pair nicely with this comforting meal.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Gnocchi Bolognese is sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every bite of this hearty Italian classic.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Gnocchi Bolognese recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week or save it for a cozy dinner on a busy night.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the leftovers to cool completely.
• Transfer them to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Cool the Gnocchi Bolognese fully before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal flavor.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat gently in a saucepan over low heat, adding a splash of beef stock or water if needed.
• Stir occasionally until heated through; serve hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about making Gnocchi Bolognese.

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for Gnocchi Bolognese?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi saves time and still tastes delicious with this hearty sauce. Just follow the package instructions for cooking.

What can I substitute if I don’t have apple vinegar for Gnocchi Bolognese?

If you don’t have apple vinegar, you can use white wine vinegar or even balsamic vinegar. Each will add its unique flavor to the sauce!

How long does Gnocchi Bolognese last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, Gnocchi Bolognese lasts up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Is Gnocchi Bolognese suitable for freezing?

Yes! You can freeze Gnocchi Bolognese for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool it completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or bags.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Gnocchi Bolognese as much as I do! It’s comforting, flavorful, and perfect for any day of the week. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, it’s sure to bring smiles around the table. Happy cooking!