Description
A hearty and comforting Gnocchi Bolognese recipe featuring tender gnocchi smothered in a rich, flavorful beef and tomato sauce infused with fresh herbs and a hint of spice. Perfect for a satisfying family dinner ready in 50 minutes.
Ingredients
Sauce Ingredients
- 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
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
- 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
- 2 cans (14 oz / 400 g each) crushed tomatoes
- 1 1/4 cups (310 ml) beef stock
- 2 bay leaves
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Gnocchi & Garnish
- 1 1/2 lb (900 g) gnocchi
- 1/3 cup (30 g) grated Parmesan
- 6–8 fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
Instructions
- Prepare the base vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely diced onion, carrot, and celery and cook for 8–10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they are softened and lightly golden, building a flavorful foundation.
- Add garlic and brown the beef: Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Add the lean ground beef and cook for 5–6 minutes, breaking it up with a spoon, until the meat is thoroughly browned for a rich taste.
- Incorporate tomato paste and herbs: Mix in the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes to let it caramelize slightly, enhancing its depth. Then stir in fresh thyme, rosemary, and red chili flakes, combining them well to infuse the sauce with aromatic layers.
- Simmer the sauce: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef stock, then add the bay leaves. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil before reducing heat and letting it simmer uncovered for 15 minutes. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and develops a rich flavor.
- Cook the gnocchi: Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, usually until they float to the surface, then drain thoroughly to avoid excess water in the sauce.
- Combine gnocchi and sauce: Remove the bay leaves from the sauce. Stir the cooked gnocchi into the Bolognese sauce along with grated Parmesan and torn fresh basil leaves. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste, blending everything harmoniously.
- Serve: Plate the gnocchi Bolognese immediately, optionally topped with extra grated Parmesan for an added savory touch. Enjoy warm and fresh for the best experience.
Notes
- For a spicier dish, increase the amount of red chili flakes to taste.
- You can substitute beef stock with vegetable stock for a lighter flavor.
- Fresh herbs can be swapped with dried herbs if fresh isn’t available; use about one-third of the amount.
- Gnocchi can be store-bought or homemade depending on your preference and time availability.
- Leftover dishes keep well refrigerated and taste great when reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
