Name: Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely diced; 1 pound ground beef; 2 garlic cloves, finely diced; ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning mix; ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes; ½ cup beef broth; ½ cup heavy cream; 1 pound gnocchi, uncooked; ⅓ cup grated Parmesan; 6-8 fresh basil leaves; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 4 reviews

If you’re craving a comforting meal that’s quick, hearty, and bursting with flavor, the Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet Recipe is exactly what you need in your dinner rotation. This one-pot wonder brings together pillowy gnocchi with a luscious, tomato-beef sauce that’s enriched with cream and finished off with fresh basil and Parmesan. It’s the type of dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate and becomes an instant family favorite with every bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A large light pink pan sits on a black stove with a wooden surface below. Inside the pan, there is a layer of finely chopped white onions spread evenly around the edges. In the center, there are several clusters of raw ground meat with a bright pink color, loosely piled and not mixed with the onions. The meat strands have a soft, textured appearance, and the onions have a glossy, slightly translucent look. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Every ingredient in this recipe is simple yet essential, combining to create a perfect balance of creamy texture, rich flavor, and vibrant color. From savory ground beef to velvety cream and fresh basil, each element plays a vital role in bringing this skillet to life.

1 tablespoon olive oil: The base for sautéing onions and beef, adding subtle fruity notes.
1 medium onion finely diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens.
1 pound ground beef: Provides hearty protein and a rich, meaty foundation.
2 garlic cloves finely diced: Infuses the dish with robust aromatic punch.
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning mix: Brings the classic herb medley for warmth.
¼ teaspoon red chili flakes: Adds a gentle kick of heat without overpowering.
2 tablespoons tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor to deepen the sauce.
1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes: The base for a rich, tangy sauce.
½ cup beef broth: Enhances the savory notes and keeps it juicy.
½ cup heavy cream: Creates the signature creamy texture that coats the gnocchi beautifully.
1 pound gnocchi uncooked: Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the delicious sauce.
⅓ cup Parmesan grated: Adds a salty, nutty finish to tie everything together.
6-8 fresh basil leaves: Fresh herbaceous brightness as a perfect garnish.
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasoning to balance and enhance all flavors.

How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics and Brown the Beef

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion and cook for about 2-3 minutes until it softens and becomes translucent. Then, add the ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks, until it’s nicely browned, approximately 5 minutes. This step forms the savory backbone of the dish, creating that rich, meaty flavor you’ll love.

Step 2: Build the Flavor with Garlic and Spices

Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook just for a minute until fragrant. Stir in the Italian seasoning, red chili flakes, and tomato paste. These ingredients deepen the sauce with herbaceous, spicy, and tangy layers. Allow everything to cook together for another minute, letting the tomato paste develop its full flavor.

Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth, then Simmer

Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stirring well to combine all those rich flavors. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which encourages the flavors to meld beautifully while thickening the sauce slightly. This slow simmer gives you that comforting, hearty base for your gnocchi.

Step 4: Stir in Cream and Cook the Gnocchi

Once the sauce is simmering, stir in the heavy cream for that indulgent, velvety texture. Then add the uncooked gnocchi directly into the skillet. Let everything cook together for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to make sure the gnocchi doesn’t stick and cooks evenly. The gnocchi will soak up the creamy tomato sauce, making every bite irresistible.

Step 5: Finish with Parmesan, Basil, and Seasoning

Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese for a salty, nutty kick. Taste and adjust with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Finally, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top to brighten the dish with an herbaceous pop. Serve this creamy creation immediately for the best experience!

How to Serve Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet Recipe

A round black bowl filled with rich orange gnocchi mixed in a thick creamy sauce with visible small pieces of ground meat, topped with a few fresh green basil leaves scattered over. Around the bowl, there are several small bright red cherry tomatoes still on vine, a metal grater with chunks of light yellow cheese on it, and some more cheese pieces nearby. The bowl sits on a wooden surface, with a light brown cloth napkin folded next to it. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

While fresh basil and Parmesan are classic garnishes, you can also sprinkle extra chili flakes if you like a bit more heat. A drizzle of good quality olive oil adds a lovely finishing sheen. For a fresh contrast, a few crunchy toasted pine nuts or chopped parsley can elevate the presentation and texture.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich and filling, so light sides work well to complement without overwhelming. A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or simple roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli pairs beautifully. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette is a perfect way to scoop up every last bit of that glorious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Looking to impress your guests? Serve the creamy ground beef gnocchi skillet recipe in individual shallow bowls topped with microgreens or a Parmesan crisp. You can even portion it into small cast iron skillets for a rustic, cozy vibe. Another idea is to layer it in a casserole dish and sprinkle extra cheese before broiling for a bubbly golden crust.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This dish stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure to transfer it into an airtight container so the sauce stays creamy and the gnocchi retains its texture. Give it a gentle stir before reheating to reincorporate all the flavors.

Freezing

If you want to freeze leftovers, portion the Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet Recipe in freezer-safe containers. It freezes best when unopened gnocchi is cooked just slightly less than fully to avoid mushiness after reheating. The sauce freezes beautifully, keeping all its richness intact. Consume within 2 months for optimal taste.

Reheating

To reheat, warm the skillet gently over low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of cream or broth if the sauce seems too thick. Alternatively, microwave in short bursts, stirring in between to keep the gnocchi tender and sauce evenly heated.

FAQs

Can I use turkey or chicken instead of ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken can be used for a leaner version. Just keep in mind the flavor will be milder, so consider adding a bit more seasoning or herbs to maintain the hearty profile.

What type of gnocchi works best for this recipe?

Fresh or store-bought potato gnocchi both work wonderfully. Fresh gnocchi will cook just a little quicker and have a softer texture, while frozen gnocchi may take an extra minute or two but still pairs perfectly with this creamy sauce.

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes! Swap out heavy cream for coconut cream or a creamy plant-based alternative, and use a dairy-free Parmesan substitute or nutritional yeast for that cheesy flavor. The dish remains deliciously creamy and comforting without traditional dairy.

Can I add vegetables to this skillet?

Definitely. Adding spinach, mushrooms, or bell peppers works great and adds extra nutrients and texture. Just sauté veggies with the onions or stir them in a few minutes before adding the broth to keep them tender but vibrant.

How spicy is the Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet Recipe?

The recipe includes a mild amount of red chili flakes for a subtle kick, but it’s easily adjustable based on your spice preference. You can omit the flakes entirely or increase the amount for more heat to suit your taste buds.

Final Thoughts

Every time I make the Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet Recipe, it feels like sharing a little bit of comfort and joy all in one skillet. The creamy sauce, tender gnocchi, and savory beef create a meal that’s as satisfying as it is easy to prepare. Whether sharing with family or enjoying a cozy night in, this recipe is guaranteed to become a go-to favorite in your kitchen.