Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe

Ground beef gnocchi is the perfect combination of hearty, flavorful beef and tender, pillowy gnocchi. It’s a quick and easy meal that feels indulgent yet is simple enough for a weeknight dinner. This recipe blends savory beef with the soft texture of gnocchi, creating a satisfying dish that will please everyone at the table. Whether you're new to cooking or an experienced chef, this recipe offers something for everyone. Read on for a step-by-step guide to making the perfect ground beef gnocchi and a few tips to make it your own!

this Recipe

What is Ground Beef Gnocchi?

Ground beef gnocchi is a comforting Italian-inspired dish that combines the rich flavor of ground beef with the light, fluffy texture of gnocchi, a type of Italian dumpling made from potatoes. The gnocchi, once boiled, gets tossed in a rich beef sauce, creating a savory and comforting meal that's perfect for dinner. It’s a great way to elevate simple ingredients like ground beef and gnocchi into a dish that’s impressive enough for guests but easy enough for a quick family meal.

Ingredients List for Ground Beef Gnocchi

1. 1 lb (450g) ground beef – The main protein for the dish, ground beef adds hearty, savory flavors.
2. 1 package (16 oz) of potato gnocchi – You can find gnocchi in most supermarkets, either fresh or packaged.
3. 1 medium onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth of flavor to the sauce.
4. 3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic enhances the flavor of the sauce with its pungent, aromatic qualities.
5. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes – Helps to create a rich, slightly acidic base for the sauce.
6. 1 tablespoon tomato paste – Adds concentrated tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
7. ½ cup beef broth – Helps to build a rich, savory sauce.
8. 1 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing the vegetables and browning the beef.
9. 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds an earthy, aromatic flavor.
10. 1 teaspoon dried basil – Brings a subtle sweetness and herbaceous taste to the dish.
11. ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a little kick of heat.
12. Salt and pepper to taste – To season the beef and sauce.
13. Grated Parmesan cheese – For garnishing and adding a salty, nutty flavor to the finished dish.
14. Fresh basil (optional) – For a fresh, bright garnish.

Substitutions and Variations

If you're looking to make changes to this recipe, there are plenty of substitutions and variations to suit your taste and dietary preferences. For example, you can replace ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even a plant-based meat substitute for a vegetarian option. If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a splash of heavy cream or cream cheese towards the end of cooking. You can also use different herbs such as rosemary or thyme if you want to change up the flavor profile. For a gluten-free version, be sure to use gluten-free gnocchi, which can be found in many grocery stores. Finally, you can bulk up the dish with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini for added nutrition and texture.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. Add the gnocchi to the boiling water and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes or until they float to the surface. Once cooked, drain and set aside. You’ll be adding them to the sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Ground Beef

Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook for about 6-8 minutes, breaking it up with a spatula as it browns. Cook until the beef is no longer pink and is nicely browned. Drain any excess fat from the pan if necessary.

Step 3: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, push the beef to one side and add the diced onions and garlic to the pan. Cook for 3-4 minutes until the onions are translucent and the garlic is fragrant. Stir the beef and vegetables together.

Step 4: Build the Sauce

Add the tomato paste to the pan and cook for 1-2 minutes to deepen its flavor. Then, pour in the diced tomatoes and beef broth, stirring to combine. Add the dried oregano, dried basil, red pepper flakes (if using), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together.

Step 5: Combine Gnocchi with the Beef Sauce

Once the sauce has thickened and the flavors have developed, add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet. Toss the gnocchi in the beef sauce until they are well coated. Let everything cook together for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to absorb some of the sauce.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Turn off the heat and sprinkle the dish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with chopped fresh basil, if desired, for a pop of color and added freshness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Overcooking the gnocchi – Gnocchi cooks very quickly, and it’s easy to overdo it. Keep an eye on them as they boil and drain them as soon as they float to the surface to ensure they remain light and tender.
2. Not draining the beef fat – While you want the flavor of the beef, too much fat can make the dish greasy. Be sure to drain any excess fat after browning the beef.
3. Rushing the sauce – Allow the sauce enough time to simmer and develop flavor. A rushed sauce can taste flat and lack depth.
4. Not seasoning enough – Both the beef and the sauce need to be well-seasoned. Taste as you cook and adjust the salt and pepper to suit your preferences.

Serving and Presentation Tips

Ground beef gnocchi is a rustic dish, but that doesn’t mean it can’t look beautiful on the plate. Serve it in shallow bowls, garnished with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan and a few fresh basil leaves. You can also drizzle a bit of extra virgin olive oil on top for added richness. Pair the dish with a simple green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal. A glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Cabernet Sauvignon, would also complement the rich flavors of the beef and tomatoes.

How to Serve Ground Beef Gnocchi

To serve ground beef gnocchi, use a large spoon to scoop the gnocchi and sauce into bowls or onto plates. Make sure to get a bit of everything – gnocchi, beef, and sauce – in each serving. If you're serving this dish for guests, consider placing a small dish of extra Parmesan cheese on the table, so everyone can add more as they like. This dish is best served hot, so make sure to plate it right away after cooking for the best texture and flavor.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Gnocchi

For an elevated presentation, consider serving the ground beef gnocchi in individual cast-iron skillets or oven-safe dishes. You can place the dishes under the broiler for a minute or two with an extra layer of Parmesan on top to create a golden, crispy finish. Another option is to serve it family-style in a large, rustic serving dish, allowing everyone to help themselves. Garnish with sprigs of fresh basil and a crack of fresh black pepper for added flair.

Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe Tips

1. Use fresh gnocchi if you can find it – Fresh gnocchi will have a more delicate, tender texture compared to the packaged kind.
2. Don’t skip the Parmesan – It adds a nutty, salty richness that balances the acidity of the tomatoes and the richness of the beef.
3. Make it ahead – You can prepare the beef sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to two days. When ready to serve, cook the gnocchi and combine it with the reheated sauce.
4. Add a splash of balsamic vinegar – For a hint of sweetness and complexity, stir in a teaspoon of balsamic vinegar at the end of cooking.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. Just follow the package instructions for cooking. Typically, frozen gnocchi cooks in the same way as fresh or packaged gnocchi—boil until they float.

What other types of meat can I use?
Ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be substituted for ground beef in this recipe. If you’re vegetarian, plant-based ground meat alternatives will also work well.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes! You can make the beef sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, cook the gnocchi and reheat the sauce.

How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce.

Can I freeze ground beef gnocchi?
You can freeze the beef sauce, but gnocchi may not hold up well after freezing. It's best to freeze the sauce separately and cook fresh gnocchi when you're ready to eat.

Conclusion

Ground beef gnocchi is a delicious, comforting meal that brings together the rich flavors of beef and tomatoes with the soft, satisfying texture of gnocchi. It's a dish that’s quick to prepare but packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With just a few simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, you’ll have a hearty meal on the table in no time. Don’t be afraid to experiment with variations and make the dish your own! Try it today, and enjoy the delicious flavors that come together in this savory Italian-inspired recipe.

Print