Ground Beef Gnocchi

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, this Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe is just what you need. It’s a delightful one-pan dish that transforms store-bought gnocchi into something truly special. The creamy tomato sauce combined with hearty ground beef makes this dinner a family favorite. Whether it’s a busy weeknight or a gathering with friends, this recipe brings everyone to the table!

This dish is not only delicious but also quick to prepare, making it perfect for those evenings when time is tight but you still want something gourmet. Plus, the leftovers taste just as good (if you have any left!).

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just one pan and 25 minutes, dinner will be ready in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will love the creamy goodness and tender gnocchi.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: The rich flavors of the sauce will warm your heart and satisfy your cravings.
• Make-Ahead Option: Prep this dish earlier in the day; simply heat it up for an effortless dinner.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily customize it based on what you have on hand.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients makes cooking feel like a breeze. Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful Ground Beef Gnocchi:

For the Main Dish

• 1 pound lean ground beef
• 1/2 medium onion (chopped)
• 3 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning (or to taste)
• 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
• 1/3 cup chicken or beef broth
• 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
• 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
• Salt & pepper (to taste)

Variations

One of the best things about Ground Beef Gnocchi is its flexibility! Here are some tasty variations you can try:

• Swap the protein: Use ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Add some veggies: Toss in spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Change up the sauce: Try adding pesto instead of cream for a fresh twist.
• Make it spicy: Add red pepper flakes to kick up the heat!

How to Make Ground Beef Gnocchi

Step 1: Brown the Meat

Start by browning the ground beef and chopped onion in a skillet over medium-high heat for about 7-10 minutes. This step is crucial—it develops flavor while also softening the onions. If there’s too much fat, spoon out most of it to keep your dish from being greasy.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasoning

Next, stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning. This will fill your kitchen with an amazing aroma! Cooking these together enhances their flavors before adding other ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Now, add diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken or beef broth, heavy cream, and uncooked gnocchi to the pan. Give everything a good stir! Once it starts bubbling again, cover the pan and reduce the heat to medium. Let it cook for about 5 minutes; this allows the gnocchi to cook through while soaking up all those delicious flavors.

Step 4: Finish Cooking

Uncover the pan after 5 minutes and stir once more. Cook for another few minutes until the gnocchi is soft and fluffy, and your sauce has thickened to your liking. This step is all about ensuring your meal has that perfect consistency.

Step 5: Stir in Cheese

Finally, stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese along with salt and pepper to taste. This adds richness to your dish—it’s truly what takes this meal over the top! Serve immediately and watch everyone dig in with smiles on their faces.

Enjoy every bite of this comforting Ground Beef Gnocchi!

Pro Tips for Making Ground Beef Gnocchi

Creating a delicious plate of ground beef gnocchi is easy with a few helpful tips. Here are some ideas to make your dish even better!

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Opt for fresh garlic and herbs whenever possible. Fresh ingredients enhance the flavors and give your dish a vibrant taste.
• Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When browning the ground beef, make sure you don’t overload the skillet. This allows for even cooking and helps achieve that perfect sear for added flavor.
• Adjust the Creaminess: Feel free to add more or less cream depending on your preference. A richer sauce can provide an indulgent experience, while less cream keeps it light and healthy.
• Taste as You Cook: Always sample your sauce before serving. Adjusting the seasoning to your liking ensures the meal is perfectly tailored to your taste buds.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the gnocchi sit covered for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

How to Serve Ground Beef Gnocchi

Serving ground beef gnocchi can be both fun and creative! Here are some ideas to help you present this delightful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Fresh Basil: Sprinkle some freshly chopped basil leaves on top just before serving for a burst of color and fresh flavor.
• Extra Parmesan: Grate additional parmesan cheese over each serving to enhance the cheesy goodness of this dish.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, adding a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes will elevate the flavor profile.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: A classic pairing, garlic bread is perfect for soaking up that creamy sauce and adds a delightful crunch to your meal.
• Steamed Broccoli: Lightly steamed broccoli adds vibrant color and nutrients, balancing out the richness of the gnocchi.
• Mixed Green Salad: A simple salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette provides freshness that complements the hearty main dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: Roasting seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or carrots brings out their natural sweetness and adds variety to your plate.

Now you’re ready to impress your family or guests with this comforting ground beef gnocchi recipe! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store it safely, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool fully before freezing.
• Place in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag.
• Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.
• To prevent freezer burn, remove as much air as possible from the bag.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen gnocchi in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.
• Stir occasionally until heated through. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring frequently.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use a different type of protein in Ground Beef Gnocchi?

Absolutely! You can substitute ground turkey, chicken, or even plant-based ground meat if you prefer. Each option will bring its unique flavors to this comforting dish.

How do I know when my Ground Beef Gnocchi is done cooking?

The gnocchi is ready when it floats to the top of the sauce and is soft to the bite. Make sure to stir occasionally and check for desired tenderness!

Can I adjust the creaminess of my Ground Beef Gnocchi?

Yes! If you prefer a lighter sauce, reduce the amount of cream or swap half of it for more broth. You can always add extra cheese at the end for added flavor without compromising on creaminess.

What should I serve with Ground Beef Gnocchi?

This dish pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad or roasted vegetables. A side of garlic bread can also be great for sopping up that creamy sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Ground Beef Gnocchi! It’s a special recipe that turns simple ingredients into a hearty meal that feels gourmet without all the fuss. Enjoy sharing it with family or saving some leftovers for yourself—trust me, it tastes even better the next day! Happy cooking!