There’s something undeniably cozy and downright special about a bowl of Gnocchi Bolognese. With pillowy potato gnocchi soaking up a savory meat sauce full of rich tomatoes, herbs, and a splash of cream, this dish merges the ultimate comfort food with Italian classics. Whether you’re looking to impress guests or treat yourself to a weeknight dinner that tastes like hours of work, Gnocchi Bolognese will have everyone asking for seconds (and the recipe, too).
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Gnocchi Bolognese lies in its simplicity—each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor, heartiness, and color. Gather everything on this list and watch as basic staples turn into something extraordinary with just a little time and care.
- Potato gnocchi (1 pound): These soft, delicate dumplings are perfect for catching every drop of that savory sauce.
- Olive oil (1 tablespoon): A high-quality olive oil starts the sauté and adds an unmistakable Italian aroma.
- Ground beef or pork (1 pound): Adds meaty depth; you can use a blend or choose your favorite for a lighter or richer taste.
- Onion, finely chopped (1 small): Sweetens the sauce as it cooks, building that classic Bolognese flavor base.
- Garlic, minced (2 cloves): Essential for bold, aromatic notes that perfume the whole dish.
- Carrot, finely diced (1): Adds a subtle sweetness and bright color to the sauce.
- Celery stalk, finely diced (1): Brings balance and earthiness, rounding out the soffritto trio.
- Dry red wine (1/2 cup): Deepens the flavor and gives that restaurant-quality finish.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 can, 28 oz): The heart of the sauce—pick good-quality tomatoes for best results.
- Tomato paste (2 tablespoons): Richens the sauce and intensifies the tomato flavor.
- Dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Offers that quintessential Italian herb aroma.
- Dried basil (1 teaspoon): Lends a sweet, fragrant note balancing the robust sauce.
- Salt (1/2 teaspoon): Brings all the flavors together—taste and adjust as you go.
- Freshly ground black pepper (to taste): Adds gentle heat and depth—add a little extra for zest!
- Whole milk or heavy cream (1/2 cup): Makes the sauce silky and just a bit luxurious.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/4 cup): Adds salty, nutty richness—don’t skip it at the end.
- Chopped fresh parsley (for garnish): Brightens every serving and makes it look (and taste!) so much fresher.
How to Make Gnocchi Bolognese
Step 1: Brown the Meat
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet or pot over medium heat. Add the ground beef or pork, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Let it brown thoroughly—those little caramelized bits will bring tons of flavor to your Gnocchi Bolognese. Don’t rush this part; a good sear means a more delicious sauce.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the meat is browned, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, diced carrot, and celery to the pan. Stir everything together and cook for about 5–7 minutes. You’ll notice the veggies start to soften, their aroma filling your kitchen—it’s the start of that beloved Bolognese richness.
Step 3: Deglaze with Wine
Pour in the dry red wine and use your spoon to gently scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the wine simmer for 2–3 minutes, reducing slightly. The alcohol cooks off, leaving layers of deep, savory flavor behind that elevate the entire dish.
Step 4: Build the Sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and a generous crank of black pepper. Reduce the heat to low and simmer gently for 20–30 minutes, stirring occasionally. If you have the time, let the sauce bubble away a little longer for even deeper flavor—Gnocchi Bolognese only gets better with patience.
Step 5: Enrich with Cream
When the sauce has melded together, stir in the whole milk or heavy cream and simmer for another 5 minutes. This small touch makes the sauce silky and smooth, giving your Gnocchi Bolognese that Italian restaurant finish right at home.
Step 6: Cook and Combine the Gnocchi
Meanwhile, cook the potato gnocchi according to package instructions. Once they float, they’re ready—drain them well and add them straight into the simmering Bolognese sauce. Toss gently to coat every pillowy dumpling. This is where the magic happens, as the gnocchi soak up all those savory, creamy flavors.
Step 7: Serve and Top
Dish up your Gnocchi Bolognese piping hot, and sprinkle generously with grated Parmesan and fresh chopped parsley. The cheese adds richness, while the parsley livens up each bite. Gather everyone at the table—this is a dish best shared and savored.
How to Serve Gnocchi Bolognese
Garnishes
The final flourish on Gnocchi Bolognese can make it even more irresistible. Freshly grated Parmesan melts lusciously into the sauce, and chopped parsley adds a hit of freshness and color. If you like a peppery punch, crack some extra black pepper on top or add a few fresh basil leaves for an Italian countryside feel.
Side Dishes
To round out your Gnocchi Bolognese meal, serve it with crusty Italian bread to mop up the sauce, or a crisp green salad with a bright vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables on the side are also beautiful, bringing color and contrast to your plate without competing with your star main dish.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve Gnocchi Bolognese in shallow bowls with extra Parmesan shaved over the top. You can also try portioning the gnocchi into individual ramekins, topping with cheese, and broiling briefly for a bubbly, golden finish. Another fun twist is serving family-style on a large platter, letting everyone help themselves at the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers, let your Gnocchi Bolognese cool to room temperature before storing it in an airtight container in the fridge. It will keep well for up to three days, making it an easy and delicious lunch or dinner the next day.
Freezing
Gnocchi Bolognese can be frozen for longer storage! Simply transfer cooled portions to a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. It will maintain good texture and flavor for up to 2 months. For best results, freeze the sauce and gnocchi separately if possible, mixing them just before serving.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm your Gnocchi Bolognese in a saucepan over low heat. Add a splash of water or a tablespoon of cream if the sauce seems thick. Stir frequently until heated through, being careful not to break apart the soft gnocchi. You can also microwave individual portions for an easy lunch.
FAQs
Can I make Gnocchi Bolognese gluten-free?
Absolutely! Just pick up a gluten-free potato gnocchi, which is widely available at many grocery stores. The sauce itself is naturally gluten-free, so you won’t be missing out on any of that classic flavor.
Is it possible to use a different protein?
Yes! Gnocchi Bolognese is flexible—try ground turkey or chicken for a lighter twist, or even plant-based crumbles if you’re cooking for vegetarians. Just keep an eye on seasoning, as leaner meats might need a touch more salt and herbs for depth.
What can I use instead of wine?
If you’re skipping wine, substitute with beef or vegetable broth plus a splash of balsamic vinegar for acidity. This keeps the sauce rich and flavorful without the alcohol.
How can I prevent the gnocchi from becoming mushy?
Be sure not to overcook the gnocchi—they’re done as soon as they float to the surface. After draining, add them directly into the sauce and toss gently, just until coated. This will help them maintain their tender, fluffy texture.
Can Gnocchi Bolognese be made ahead of time?
Definitely! The Bolognese sauce develops even more flavor if made a day ahead. Store it in the refrigerator, then cook and toss with fresh gnocchi just before serving for the perfect balance of texture and taste.
Final Thoughts
If there’s any dish worth adding to your regular rotation, it’s Gnocchi Bolognese. The combination of hearty sauce and tender gnocchi is pure comfort, every single bite. Give it a try—your kitchen will smell amazing, your table will be full, and you might just have a new favorite to share with the ones you love!
Print
Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A comforting and hearty Italian classic, Gnocchi Bolognese combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a rich and savory meat sauce. This recipe is a perfect balance of flavors and textures, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef or pork
Bolognese Sauce:
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 1/2 cup dry red wine
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1/2 cup whole milk or heavy cream
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Meat: In a large skillet or pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef or pork and cook until browned. Add onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Cook until vegetables are softened.
- Make the Sauce: Pour in red wine and cook until reduced. Stir in crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 20-30 minutes.
- Finish the Sauce: Stir in milk or cream and simmer for 5 more minutes. Cook gnocchi according to package directions.
- Combine and Serve: Add cooked gnocchi to the sauce. Toss gently to coat. Serve topped with Parmesan and parsley.
Notes
- For enhanced flavor, simmer the sauce longer if time permits.
- Substitute ground turkey or chicken for a lighter alternative.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 600
- Sugar: 8g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 28g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 55g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
