Gnocchi Bolognese

Gnocchi Bolognese is the ultimate cozy dinner. Soft, pillowy gnocchi are tossed in a rich, savory tomato sauce made with lean ground beef, aromatic herbs, and a splash of red wine. This hearty dish brings warmth and comfort, making it ideal for weeknight meals or special gatherings. With its deep flavors and satisfying texture, Gnocchi Bolognese is sure to impress family and friends alike.

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Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• For the Sauce
• For the Gnocchi
• For Garnish
• How to Make Gnocchi Bolognese
• Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables
• Step 2: Cook the Meat
• Step 3: Add Wine and Simmer
• Step 4: Combine Ingredients
• Step 5: Simmer the Sauce
• Step 6: Cook Gnocchi
• Step 7: Finish the Dish
• Step 8: Serve
• How to Serve Gnocchi Bolognese
• Family Style
• Individual Plates
• With Garlic Bread
• Salad on the Side
• Wine Pairing
• Garnish Ideas
• How to Perfect Gnocchi Bolognese
• Best Side Dishes for Gnocchi Bolognese
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Gnocchi Bolognese
• Reheating Gnocchi Bolognese
• Frequently Asked Questions
• What is Gnocchi Bolognese?
• Can I make Gnocchi Bolognese ahead of time?
• How do I customize my Gnocchi Bolognese?
• Is Gnocchi Bolognese suitable for meal prep?
• What should I serve with Gnocchi Bolognese?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Hearty and Satisfying: This dish combines tender gnocchi with a rich Bolognese sauce for a filling meal.
• Easily Customizable: You can adjust the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Quick Prep Time: With only 5 minutes of prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy evenings.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a festive gathering, Gnocchi Bolognese fits right in.
• Delicious Leftovers: The flavors deepen over time, making it even better the next day.

Tools and Preparation

To make Gnocchi Bolognese smoothly, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep pan or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Sharp knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep pan or Dutch oven: This allows for even cooking and provides enough space for all ingredients.
• Wooden spoon: Perfect for breaking apart meat and stirring without scratching your cookware.

Ingredients

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
• ½ cup (100 ml) dry red wine
• 2 tablespoons tomato paste
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
• ¼ 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

• 1½ lb (900 g) gnocchi

For Garnish

• ⅓ cup (30 g) grated Parmesan
• 6–8 fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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How to Make Gnocchi Bolognese

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 8–10 minutes until softened.

Step 2: Cook the Meat

Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute. Then stir in the ground beef. Cook for 5–6 minutes until browned, breaking apart the meat with a spoon.

Step 3: Add Wine and Simmer

Pour in the red wine and allow it to simmer for 1–2 minutes to let some alcohol evaporate.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and red chili flakes until well combined.

Step 5: Simmer the Sauce

Add the crushed tomatoes, beef stock, and bay leaves. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 6: Cook Gnocchi

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Cook gnocchi according to package directions. Drain and set aside.

Step 7: Finish the Dish

Once the sauce has thickened slightly, remove bay leaves. Stir in cooked gnocchi along with grated Parmesan and fresh basil. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 8: Serve

Serve immediately while hot! Garnish with extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy your delicious Gnocchi Bolognese!

How to Serve Gnocchi Bolognese

Gnocchi Bolognese is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you want to impress guests or enjoy a cozy family meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your plate.

Family Style

• Serve the Gnocchi Bolognese in a large bowl, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a warm and inviting atmosphere.

Individual Plates

• Plate the gnocchi in individual bowls and top each with extra grated Parmesan and fresh basil. This presentation looks elegant and makes serving easy.

With Garlic Bread

• Pair the dish with crispy garlic bread for a delicious contrast. The crusty texture complements the soft gnocchi beautifully.

Salad on the Side

• A fresh green salad adds brightness to the meal. Consider a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the sauce.

Wine Pairing

• Enjoy your Gnocchi Bolognese with a glass of red wine, like Chianti or Merlot. These wines enhance the flavors of the dish.

Garnish Ideas

• Top each serving with additional herbs like parsley or oregano for added freshness. A sprinkle of chili flakes can also add a bit of heat.

How to Perfect Gnocchi Bolognese

To create an outstanding Gnocchi Bolognese, follow these tips for best results and flavor enhancement.

• Choose Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality canned tomatoes and lean ground beef for a richer sauce.
• Be Patient While Simmering: Allowing the sauce to simmer enhances its flavors. The longer it cooks, the better it tastes.
• Cook Gnocchi Al Dente: Follow package instructions carefully to ensure your gnocchi is tender yet slightly firm.
• Don’t Skip the Wine: A splash of dry red wine adds depth to the sauce. Let it simmer long enough for most alcohol to evaporate.
• Adjust Seasonings: Taste your sauce before serving and adjust salt, pepper, or herbs as necessary for perfect seasoning.
• Add Fresh Herbs Last: Stir in fresh basil at the end of cooking for vibrant flavor without losing its freshness.

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Best Side Dishes for Gnocchi Bolognese

When enjoying Gnocchi Bolognese, consider serving it alongside some tasty side dishes that complement this hearty meal perfectly.

1. Caesar Salad
   A classic Caesar salad provides crispness and crunch, balancing out the rich sauce.
2. Roasted Vegetables
   Seasonal roasted vegetables add color and nutrients to your plate while enhancing flavors with their sweetness.
3. Garlic Parmesan Knots
   Soft knots brushed with garlic butter are perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.
4. Caprese Salad
   Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil offer a refreshing contrast and enhance Italian flavors.
5. Steamed Asparagus
   Lightly steamed asparagus brings a touch of elegance while adding a healthy green option.
6. Bruschetta
   Toasted bread topped with fresh tomatoes and basil is an excellent appetizer that sets the stage for your main dish.
7. Zucchini Noodles
   For a low-carb option, serve zucchini noodles as a side that pairs well with your rich sauce.
8. Antipasto Platter
   An antipasto platter featuring cured meats, olives, and cheeses can be an exciting start to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Gnocchi Bolognese, it’s easy to run into a few common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap tomatoes or meat can ruin the dish. Invest in good quality crushed tomatoes and lean ground beef for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Cooking them too long can lead to mushy gnocchi. Follow the package directions closely for perfect texture.
• Not seasoning properly: Under-seasoned sauce can taste bland. Don’t forget to taste and adjust salt and pepper as needed throughout cooking.
• Skipping the wine: Omitting red wine means losing depth of flavor. Use a dry red wine to enhance the sauce’s richness.
• Ignoring fresh herbs: Dried herbs lack the vibrancy of fresh ones. Always use fresh thyme and rosemary for an aromatic boost.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Gnocchi Bolognese in an airtight container.
• It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Gnocchi Bolognese

• Allow it to cool completely before freezing.
• Freeze in a sturdy container or freezer bag for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Gnocchi Bolognese

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium-low heat in a pan, stirring occasionally until heated thoroughly, about 5-7 minutes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is Gnocchi Bolognese?

Gnocchi Bolognese is a comforting Italian dish consisting of soft gnocchi served with a rich meat sauce made from ground beef and tomatoes.

Can I make Gnocchi Bolognese ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge or freezer. Just cook the gnocchi fresh when you’re ready to serve.

How do I customize my Gnocchi Bolognese?

You can add vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms, or use turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter version.

Is Gnocchi Bolognese suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! This dish keeps well in the fridge or freezer, making it great for meal prepping lunches or dinners.

What should I serve with Gnocchi Bolognese?

A simple side salad or garlic bread pairs perfectly with this hearty dish, adding freshness and balance.

Final Thoughts

Gnocchi Bolognese is a delightful blend of flavors that makes it perfect for any occasion. Its comforting nature ensures it’s a hit among family and friends. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy this versatile dish that’s sure to impress!

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