Gnocchi Bolognese

Gnocchi Bolognese is the ultimate cozy dinner that brings comfort to any table. This dish features soft, pillowy gnocchi enveloped in a rich tomato sauce made with lean ground beef and aromatic herbs. Perfect for weeknights or special gatherings, Gnocchi Bolognese stands out with its heartiness and depth of flavor, making it a beloved choice for many.

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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: Brown the Beef
• Step 3: Add Wine and Seasonings
• Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Stock
• Step 5: Cook Gnocchi
• Step 6: Combine Everything
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Gnocchi Bolognese
• Classic Plate Presentation
• Family-Style Serving
• With Fresh Herbs
• Accompanied by Crusty Bread
• With Extra Cheese
• Paired with Salad
• 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 makes Gnocchi Bolognese special?
• Can I use other types of meat in Gnocchi Bolognese?
• How do I customize my Gnocchi Bolognese?
• Is Gnocchi Bolognese suitable for meal prep?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor – The combination of ground beef, herbs, and red wine creates a savory sauce that perfectly complements the gnocchi.
• Comforting Dish – This recipe is like a warm hug on a plate, perfect for cold evenings or when you just need something hearty.
• Easy to Prepare – With straightforward steps and common ingredients, this Gnocchi Bolognese can be prepared quickly without sacrificing taste.
• Versatile Meal – Ideal for family dinners or entertaining guests, this dish works well for various occasions.
• Leftover Friendly – The flavors deepen the next day, making it even more delicious as leftovers.

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will make your cooking experience smoother. Here are some essential items you’ll need to prepare Gnocchi Bolognese.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep pan or Dutch oven – Essential for simmering the sauce evenly and giving it depth of flavor.
• Sharp knife – Helps with precise chopping of vegetables, ensuring they cook uniformly.
• Wooden spoon – Ideal for stirring sauces 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: Brown the Beef

Add the garlic to the pan and cook for 1 minute. Stir in the ground beef and cook for 5–6 minutes. Break apart the meat with a spoon until browned.

Step 3: Add Wine and Seasonings

Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes. This allows the alcohol to evaporate. Then add the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and red chili flakes. Stir well to combine everything.

Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Stock

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, beef stock, and bay leaves. Bring this mixture to a boil before reducing heat. Simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Cook Gnocchi

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package directions until they float to the surface. Drain them well and set aside.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Once your sauce has thickened nicely, remove bay leaves from it. Stir in cooked gnocchi along with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves. Season it with salt and pepper according to your taste.

Step 7: Serve

Serve your Gnocchi Bolognese immediately while it’s hot! Feel free to garnish with extra Parmesan if desired. Enjoy this comforting meal!

How to Serve Gnocchi Bolognese

Gnocchi Bolognese is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to suit your taste and occasion. Here are some delightful serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Classic Plate Presentation

• Serve the gnocchi in a large bowl, topped with the rich Bolognese sauce and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan for a traditional Italian feel.

Family-Style Serving

• Present the gnocchi in a baking dish on the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. This creates a cozy atmosphere perfect for family gatherings.

With Fresh Herbs

• Garnish with extra fresh basil or parsley before serving. This adds a pop of color and enhances the dish’s freshness.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

• Serve with slices of warm, crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

With Extra Cheese

• Offer a side of grated cheese for those who love their pasta extra cheesy. A mix of Parmesan and mozzarella works wonders!

Paired with Salad

• Complement your Gnocchi Bolognese with a light salad. A simple arugula salad drizzled with olive oil balances the richness of the dish.

How to Perfect Gnocchi Bolognese

Creating the perfect Gnocchi Bolognese requires attention to detail and some handy tips. Follow these suggestions for an exceptional meal.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and quality tomatoes to enhance flavor. Fresh ingredients make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Don’t Rush the Cooking: Allow time for simmering the sauce; this develops richer flavors. A slow cook helps meld all the ingredients beautifully.
• Adjust Seasoning: Taste your sauce as you go and adjust salt and pepper accordingly. Every ingredient varies, so personalizing seasoning is key.
• Cook Gnocchi Al Dente: Follow package instructions carefully when cooking gnocchi. Overcooked gnocchi can become mushy, affecting texture.
• Add Cheese Wisely: Stir in Parmesan at the end for creaminess without overwhelming the sauce’s flavor. It adds depth while keeping it balanced.
• Experiment with Wine: Different red wines will yield varying flavors in your sauce. Don’t be afraid to try what you have on hand!

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Best Side Dishes for Gnocchi Bolognese

Pairing Gnocchi Bolognese with complementary side dishes can enhance your dining experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Bread: Crunchy and buttery, garlic bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce.
2. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine lettuce with creamy dressing offers a refreshing contrast to the rich gnocchi.
3. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers roasted with olive oil add color and nutrition.
4. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze create a flavorful balance.
5. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds a healthy touch while complementing the hearty pasta.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes, garlic, and basil provides a fresh appetizer option before your main dish.
7. Antipasto Platter: An assortment of cured meats, cheeses, olives, and pickled vegetables makes for an enticing starter.
8. Creamy Polenta: Soft polenta can serve as a base for your Gnocchi Bolognese, adding an extra layer of comfort to the meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Gnocchi Bolognese, it’s easy to overlook some key details that can affect the final dish. Here are common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using low-quality ingredients: Cheap ingredients can make your sauce taste bland. Always opt for fresh herbs, high-quality tomatoes, and good beef for the best flavor.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Gnocchi should be cooked until they float in boiling water. If left too long, they can become mushy. Keep an eye on them!
• Not seasoning properly: A bland sauce is a common issue. Remember to taste and adjust your seasoning throughout the cooking process.
• Skipping the wine: Wine adds depth to your Bolognese sauce. Don’t skip it; just ensure you let it simmer long enough for the alcohol to cook off.
• Rushing the simmering process: Allowing your sauce to simmer for at least 15 minutes enhances its flavors. Don’t rush this step; patience pays off.

Refrigerator Storage

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

Freezing Gnocchi Bolognese

• Freeze in portions using freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Gnocchi Bolognese can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating Gnocchi Bolognese

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C), place in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in 1-minute intervals until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat over medium heat in a saucepan, stirring occasionally until hot.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Gnocchi Bolognese special?

Gnocchi Bolognese combines soft potato dumplings with a rich, flavorful meat sauce, creating a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Can I use other types of meat in Gnocchi Bolognese?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well if you prefer a lighter option. Just follow the same cooking instructions as ground beef.

How do I customize my Gnocchi Bolognese?

You can add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra nutrition and flavor. Just sauté them with the onion and carrot at the beginning.

Is Gnocchi Bolognese suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well and reheats nicely, making it an excellent choice for meal prepping during busy weeks.

Final Thoughts

Gnocchi Bolognese is not just a dinner; it’s an experience of comfort and warmth. This versatile recipe allows room for customization based on personal tastes or dietary needs. Try it out tonight!