Name: Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
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; 1/2 cup (100 ml) dry red wine; 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 cup (250 ml) beef stock; 2 bay leaves; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste; 1 1/2 lb (900 g) gnocchi; 1/3 cup (30 g) grated Parmesan; 6-8 fresh basil leaves, roughly chopped

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Introduction

Gnocchi Bolognese is a comforting twist on a classic Italian favorite, combining pillowy potato gnocchi with a rich, savory meat sauce. This hearty dish is perfect for cozy dinners and impresses with its deep flavors and satisfying texture.

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
1/2 cup (100 ml) dry red wine
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 cup (250 ml) beef stock
2 bay leaves
1 1/2 lb (900 g) gnocchi
1/3 cup (30 g) grated Parmesan
6-8 fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large, deep pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery, cooking for 8-10 minutes until the vegetables soften.
Step 2: Add the garlic and cook for another minute. Then add the ground beef, cooking for 5-6 minutes until browned. Use a spoon to break the meat into small pieces as it cooks.
Step 3: Pour in the red wine and cook for 1-2 minutes until the alcohol evaporates.
Step 4: Stir in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and red chili flakes until well combined.
Step 5: Add the crushed tomatoes, beef stock, and bay leaves. Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Step 6: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain well.
Step 7: Remove bay leaves from the sauce. Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce and gently toss to coat.
Step 8: Serve the gnocchi topped with grated Parmesan and fresh basil leaves. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, let the sauce simmer longer—up to 30 minutes—stirring occasionally to deepen the taste.
Swap ground beef for ground pork or a mix of beef and pork for extra juiciness.
Add a splash of cream at the end for a smoother, creamier sauce.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Use fresh gnocchi if available for soft, pillowy bites, but store-bought works perfectly well.

Storage

Store leftover Gnocchi Bolognese in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water or stock to loosen the sauce if needed. For longer storage, freeze the sauce separately for up to 3 months; cook fresh gnocchi when ready to serve.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I make the Bolognese sauce ahead of time?

Yes, the sauce can be made a day or two in advance and often tastes better the next day as flavors meld. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat before serving with freshly cooked gnocchi.

What can I use if I don’t have fresh herbs?

Dried thyme and rosemary can be substituted—use about one-third of the amount listed for fresh herbs. Add them earlier in the cooking process to let their flavor develop.