Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe

If you are craving a comforting yet sophisticated dish that brings the rich, meaty flavors of a classic Italian sauce together with soft, pillowy gnocchi, this Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe is exactly what you need. Combining a deeply savory Bolognese sauce with tender gnocchi, this meal feels like a warm hug on a plate. Every bite delivers a perfect balance of herbs, tomatoes, and hearty beef, making it an incredibly satisfying dinner that your family and friends will keep asking for.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but essential to crafting a Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe that’s bursting with flavor and beautiful texture. Each component enhances the dish, from the aromatic vegetables that form the sauce’s base to the fresh herbs that brighten each bite.

• 1 tbsp olive oil: The golden base that gently sautés your vegetables to build flavor.
• 1 medium onion, finely diced: Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
• 1 medium carrot, finely diced: Offers subtle natural sweetness and texture.
• 2 celery stalks, finely diced: Contributes an earthy crunch that balances the acidity.
• 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped: A fragrant punch that infuses the sauce with warmth.
• 1 lb (500 g) lean ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this dish so satisfying.
• ½ cup (100 ml) vegetable broth: Provides moisture and enhances umami.
• 2 tbsp tomato paste: Concentrated tomato flavor that deepens the sauce’s richness.
• 1 tbsp fresh thyme, finely chopped: Adds a subtle herby freshness.
• 1 tbsp fresh rosemary, finely chopped: Lends a fragrant piney note to the sauce.
• ¼ tsp red chili flakes (optional): For a mild kick that uplifts the flavor profile.
• 2 cans (14 oz / 400 g each) crushed tomatoes: The saucy heart of the dish, bringing vibrant color and acidity.
• 1 cup (250 ml) beef stock: Amplifies the meaty depth of the sauce.
• 2 bay leaves: Infuses subtle aromatic complexity during simmering.
• 1 ½ lb (900 g) gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up all the saucy goodness.
• ⅓ cup (30 g) grated Parmesan: Adds savory, nutty topping that melts beautifully.
• 6–8 fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped: Fresh herbal brightness to finish the dish.
• Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste: Essential seasonings that bring everything together.

How to Make Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Sauce Base

Begin by heating olive oil in a large, deep pan over medium heat. Slowly cook your diced onion, carrot, and celery for 8 to 10 minutes until they soften and release a sweet aroma. This classic soffritto is the flavor powerhouse for your Bolognese sauce and lays a rich, savory foundation.

Step 2: Add the Garlic

Next, stir in the finely chopped garlic and cook for just one minute. This brief cooking awakens the garlic’s fragrance without burning it, which is key to avoiding any bitterness in your sauce.

Step 3: Brown the Beef

Add the lean ground beef to the pan, breaking it up with your spoon. Allow it to cook 5 to 6 minutes until fully browned and no longer pink. This step locks in that rich, meaty flavor essential to the Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe.

Step 4: Build Flavor with Broth and Herbs

Pour in the vegetable broth and let it simmer for a couple of minutes to deglaze the pan. Then, incorporate tomato paste, fresh thyme, rosemary, and optional red chili flakes to layer in herbal and subtle heat notes.

Step 5: Simmer with Tomatoes and Stock

Add the crushed tomatoes, beef stock, and bay leaves, stirring everything together. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer before reducing the heat. Allow it to cook uncovered for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally to let the sauce thicken and develop its signature deep flavor.

Step 6: Cook the Gnocchi

While your sauce is bubbling happily on the stove, bring a large pot of salted water to boil. Add the gnocchi and cook according to the package, usually until the gnocchi float to the surface. This is your signal that they’re perfectly tender and ready.

Step 7: Drain and Reserve Water

Drain the gnocchi carefully, but keep a little of the cooking water handy. This starchy water is a secret weapon if the sauce needs loosening at the end.

Step 8: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Gently toss the gnocchi into the simmering Bolognese sauce. If the sauce feels too thick, add a splash of the reserved gnocchi water to reach that ideal silky consistency where every gnocchi is lovingly coated.

Step 9: Add Final Touches

Stir in grated Parmesan and freshly chopped basil. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper—this step really brings everything together with that last layer of flavor.

Step 10: Serve Hot and Fresh

Dish up your Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe warm, garnished with extra Parmesan and basil if you like. Serve immediately to enjoy the perfect harmony of creamy gnocchi and rich meaty sauce.

How to Serve Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan are classic finishing touches that add bursts of herbal freshness and salty richness. For a touch of elegance, a drizzle of good extra virgin olive oil elevated the flavors and adds a beautiful sheen.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own but pairs beautifully with a simple green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette to cut through the richness. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is another fabulous side that lets you soak up every last drop of sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving the gnocchi in rustic, shallow bowls to showcase the sauce’s texture and color. For a fun twist, bake the combined gnocchi and sauce with an extra Parmesan crust under the broiler until bubbly for a gratin-style finish that’s irresistible.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow leftovers to cool before transferring to an airtight container. Stored in the refrigerator, your Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe will maintain its deliciousness for up to 3 days, making it perfect for next-day meals.

Freezing

You can freeze the Bolognese sauce separately for up to 3 months in a sealed container. It’s best to freeze gnocchi separately as well and combine when reheating to avoid texture changes. This way, you can enjoy the flavors anytime without hassle.

Reheating

Reheat gently on the stovetop in a covered pan over medium-low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess. Avoid overheating gnocchi to keep it tender and prevent it from becoming mushy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works wonderfully and saves time, allowing you to focus on perfecting the rich Bolognese sauce.

Is it possible to make the sauce vegetarian?

Yes, you can substitute ground beef with plant-based crumbles or finely chopped mushrooms to create a vegetarian-friendly Bolognese that still boasts great texture and flavor.

What type of tomato products work best?

Crushed tomatoes offer a lovely balance of texture and acidity. You can also blend diced tomatoes if you prefer a chunkier sauce with more body.

Can I prepare this recipe gluten-free?

Definitely! Use gluten-free gnocchi available in most grocery stores, and ensure your broth and other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How spicy will this dish be with chili flakes?

The red chili flakes add just a mild heat that enhances the sauce’s flavors without overpowering. Feel free to adjust the quantity or omit them to suit your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe is a treasure for any home cook looking to impress with relatively simple ingredients and straightforward steps. It’s a dish that feels special but is incredibly approachable. Once you try it, the combination of tender gnocchi with a luxuriously rich sauce will have you coming back for more and sharing it eagerly with loved ones. Don’t wait — start cooking and enjoy every comforting bite!

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