Gnocchi Bolognese

Gnocchi Bolognese is a delightful dish that warms the heart and satisfies the palate. This cozy dinner combines soft, pillowy gnocchi with a rich, savory tomato sauce enriched by lean ground beef and aromatic herbs. Perfect for cozy weeknights or impressing guests, Gnocchi Bolognese stands out with its comforting flavors and ease of preparation.

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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 Base
• Step 2: Brown the Meat
• Step 3: Add Wine and Seasonings
• Step 4: Simmer the Sauce
• Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
• Step 6: Combine Gnocchi with Sauce
• Step 7: Serve
• How to Serve Gnocchi Bolognese
• Garnish with Fresh Herbs
• Pair with Crusty Bread
• Add a 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
• Can I make Gnocchi Bolognese ahead of time?
• What type of gnocchi should I use?
• Can I customize my Gnocchi Bolognese?
• How do I make my sauce thicker?
• What side dishes pair well with Gnocchi Bolognese?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich Flavor: The combination of ground beef and herbs creates a deliciously hearty sauce that perfectly complements the gnocchi.
• Quick Preparation: With just 50 minutes from start to finish, this meal fits easily into your busy schedule.
• Versatile Dish: Ideal for family dinners or gatherings, this recipe can serve four people comfortably.
• Comfort Food Classic: Gnocchi Bolognese delivers that warm, comforting feeling we all crave on chilly nights.

Tools and Preparation

Having the right tools makes preparing Gnocchi Bolognese easier and more enjoyable. Here’s what you’ll need to get started.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large deep pan or Dutch oven
• Wooden spoon
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Pot for boiling gnocchi

Importance of Each Tool

• Large deep pan or Dutch oven: Perfect for simmering sauces evenly without burning.
• Wooden spoon: Great for stirring without scratching your cookware.
• Knife and cutting board: Essential for prepping fresh ingredients efficiently.

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 Base

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 Meat

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

Step 3: Add Wine and Seasonings

Pour in the red wine and let it simmer for 1–2 minutes to allow the alcohol to evaporate. Stir in the tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and red chili flakes.

Step 4: Simmer the Sauce

Add the crushed tomatoes, beef stock, and bay leaves. Bring everything to a boil. Once boiling, reduce heat and let it simmer uncovered for about 15 minutes while stirring occasionally.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package directions. Once cooked, drain them well and set aside.

Step 6: Combine Gnocchi with Sauce

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

Step 7: Serve

Serve immediately while hot. Feel free to garnish with extra Parmesan if desired!

How to Serve Gnocchi Bolognese

Gnocchi Bolognese is a delightful dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. From garnishing options to side dishes, these suggestions will elevate your meal.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Basil: Adding fresh basil leaves not only enhances the flavor but also adds a pop of color.
• Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle of grated Parmesan on top provides a rich, cheesy finish.

Pair with Crusty Bread

• Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread on the side for dipping into the savory sauce.
• Focaccia: This soft, herb-infused bread complements the dish wonderfully.

Add a Salad

• Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad adds crunch and freshness to balance the richness of the gnocchi.
• Arugula Salad: Tossed with lemon vinaigrette, arugula salad offers a peppery contrast.

How to Perfect Gnocchi Bolognese

Creating the perfect Gnocchi Bolognese requires attention to detail and some cooking tips. Here are a few suggestions to enhance your recipe:

• Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for fresh herbs and good-quality tomatoes for a more flavorful sauce.
• Cook Gnocchi Al Dente: Ensure you follow package instructions for cooking gnocchi to maintain their texture.
• Simmer Longer for Depth: Let the sauce simmer longer than recommended for richer flavors.
• Taste as You Go: Adjust seasoning throughout cooking to achieve the perfect balance of flavors.
• Experiment with Wine: Different red wines can alter the taste significantly; choose one you enjoy drinking.

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Best Side Dishes for Gnocchi Bolognese

When serving Gnocchi Bolognese, consider some delightful side dishes that complement this hearty meal. Here are some excellent options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and buttery potatoes pair well with the rich sauce.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds nutritional value and color to your plate.
3. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make for a refreshing starter.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A mix of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth and flavor.
5. Italian Antipasto Platter: A selection of cured meats, cheeses, and olives makes an inviting appetizer.
6. Bruschetta: Toasted bread topped with diced tomatoes enhances the Italian theme of your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Gnocchi Bolognese, it’s important to avoid certain pitfalls to ensure the dish turns out perfectly. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Not browning the meat enough: Failing to brown the ground beef properly can lead to a bland sauce. Make sure to cook it until it’s nicely browned for deeper flavor.
• Using low-quality tomatoes: The quality of your crushed tomatoes affects the sauce greatly. Opt for high-quality canned tomatoes for a richer taste.
• Skipping the wine: Omitting red wine may result in a less complex flavor. If you don’t want to use wine, substitute it with extra beef stock or broth.
• Overcooking the gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi too long can make it mushy. Follow package instructions and cook just until they float in boiling water.
• Neglecting seasoning: Not adjusting salt and pepper can leave your dish tasting flat. Always taste your sauce before serving and adjust as needed.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store Gnocchi Bolognese in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.
• Ensure the dish is cooled down before sealing it in containers to maintain freshness.

Freezing Gnocchi Bolognese

• Freeze Gnocchi Bolognese in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
• Consider separating gnocchi from the sauce to preserve texture when reheating.

Reheating Gnocchi Bolognese

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

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make Gnocchi Bolognese ahead of time?

You can prepare the sauce in advance and store it. Cook the gnocchi fresh when ready to serve for best results.

What type of gnocchi should I use?

You can use store-bought or homemade gnocchi for this recipe. Fresh gnocchi will provide excellent texture.

Can I customize my Gnocchi Bolognese?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers, or substitute ground beef with turkey or lentils for a vegetarian option.

How do I make my sauce thicker?

To thicken your sauce, let it simmer uncovered for a longer period or add a bit of cornstarch mixed with water as needed.

What side dishes pair well with Gnocchi Bolognese?

A simple green salad or garlic bread complements this hearty meal beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Gnocchi Bolognese is not only a comforting dish but also versatile enough for different occasions. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, this recipe promises satisfaction. Feel free to customize it with your favorite ingredients and enjoy!