If you’ve ever dreamed of a meal that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then you absolutely have to try this Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe. It combines pillowy potato gnocchi with a rich, savory Bolognese sauce that’s bursting with fresh tomatoes, herbs, and perfectly browned ground beef. Every bite offers a perfect balance between the tender gnocchi and the vibrant, hearty sauce that will make you want to come back for seconds — or thirds! This recipe is straightforward, full of flavor, and perfect for cozy dinners that feel special yet approachable.

Ingredients You’ll Need
All great dishes start with simple, quality ingredients, and this Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe is no exception. Each element plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, making the finished dish an absolute winner on every level.
- 85/15 Ground beef: Provides a perfect balance of lean meat and fat for flavorful, juicy Bolognese.
- Olive oil: Used throughout to sear and infuse depth into the sauce and gnocchi.
- Potato gnocchi: The soft, pillowy base that soaks up the vibrant sauce beautifully.
- Water: Helps to create the perfect saucy consistency without diluting flavor.
- Red pepper flakes: Adds a subtle heat that gives the sauce an exciting kick.
- Shallot: Offers a mild, sweet onion flavor that adds complexity.
- Tomato paste: Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce.
- Cherry tomatoes: Burst with freshness and sweetness making the sauce bright and rich.
- Garlic: Delivers that unmistakable aromatic punch for depth.
- Dried oregano: A staple Mediterranean herb that adds earthiness.
- Salt and black pepper: Essential seasonings that elevate every component.
- Parmesan cheese: Finishes the dish with a nutty, salty touch.
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley: Adds a fresh, vibrant pop of color and flavor at the end.
How to Make Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Beef
Start by heating a large nonstick skillet over medium heat and adding the ground beef. Break up the meat as it cooks for around 7 to 8 minutes until it starts to brown. Then let it cook undisturbed for an extra 2 to 4 minutes, allowing it to develop a lovely crispy edge. This browning process is key to building deep, savory flavors that form the foundation of your Bolognese sauce. Once browned, transfer the beef to a clean plate and set it aside to keep warm.
Step 2: Sear the Gnocchi
Using the leftover fat in the skillet, add 1 to 2 tablespoons of olive oil and spread it evenly across the pan. Place the gnocchi in a single layer and cook without moving them for 5 to 6 minutes until they develop a beautiful golden crust. Flip the gnocchi over, splash in a few tablespoons of water, and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until tender. This method gives the gnocchi a delightful contrast of textures — crisp on the outside and soft inside. Turn off the heat and let the gnocchi rest in the pan for now.
Step 3: Infuse the Oil
In a separate pot or skillet over medium-low heat, pour in the remaining olive oil along with the red pepper flakes. Let the flakes infuse their gentle heat and vibrant color into the oil by stirring occasionally for about one minute. This step is crucial for layering in subtle spiciness that complements the richness of the meat and tomatoes.
Step 4: Cook Shallots
Increase the heat to medium and add finely chopped shallots to the infused oil. Sauté them for around 2 minutes until they turn translucent and soft. This brings out their natural sweetness and provides a delicate base flavor for the sauce.
Step 5: Add Tomato Paste
Stir in the tomato paste along with 1/4 cup of water to help loosen it up. Cook this mixture for 1 to 2 minutes until the paste darkens from its bright red color. Adding the remaining water a few tablespoons at a time while stirring ensures the sauce stays silky and doesn’t get too thick or dry.
Step 6: Cook Tomatoes
Next, add the cherry tomatoes and let them simmer for 5 to 6 minutes until they become tender. Once softened, use the back of a spatula or a spoon to gently smash the tomatoes, releasing their juicy sweetness and creating a chunky, rustic sauce base.
Step 7: Season and Simmer
Sprinkle in the minced garlic, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together and allow the sauce to simmer for another five minutes, letting all those flavors meld beautifully into one cohesive sauce that’s bursting with savory, herby, and slightly spicy notes.
Step 8: Combine and Serve
Finally, add the browned ground beef and the golden, seared gnocchi to the sauce. Gently toss everything together until well combined and heated through. Serve this stunning Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe straight from the pan, topped generously with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a fresh, bright finish.
How to Serve Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe

Garnishes
The simplest garnishes can truly elevate your Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe into an impressive dish. Freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a lovely salty, nutty finish, while finely chopped flat-leaf parsley brings a fresh, vibrant touch that contrasts beautifully with the richness of the sauce. Adding a few basil leaves is also a wonderful option to amp up the herbal aroma.
Side Dishes
Serve your Gnocchi Bolognese with a side of crisp green salad dressed in a light lemon vinaigrette to balance the richness, or some roasted vegetables to add color and texture. A warm, crusty garlic bread also makes a perfect companion, ideal for mopping up every last bit of the luscious sauce.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party, present the gnocchi Bolognese in shallow bowls with a few whole cherry tomatoes and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper on top. Drizzle a bit of high-quality olive oil or a balsamic glaze for an elegant, restaurant-quality finish that’s sure to impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe keeps wonderfully in the fridge for up to three days. Store leftovers in an airtight container to maintain freshness and prevent the gnocchi from becoming soggy.
Freezing
If you want to save it longer, freezing is a great option. Place cooled portions in freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
To reheat, gently warm the dish in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce feels too thick, and finish by sprinkling fresh Parmesan cheese just before serving to bring it back to life.
FAQs
Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly well and saves time. Just be sure to sear them as directed to add a lovely golden crust that boosts texture and flavor.
Is this dish spicy because of the red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle, warming heat rather than overwhelming spiciness. You can always adjust the amount to suit your taste or leave them out if you prefer a milder flavor.
Can I substitute the ground beef for another protein?
Certainly! Ground turkey, pork, or even plant-based alternatives can be used. Just keep in mind that cooking times and flavors might vary slightly.
What type of cheese is best for topping?
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is the classic choice for topping Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe. It elevates the dish with its nutty, salty flavor and melts beautifully into the sauce.
How do I make the sauce thicker if it’s too watery?
Simply simmer the sauce longer uncovered to reduce excess liquid. Adding a bit more tomato paste can also help thicken and intensify the flavor.
Final Thoughts
There’s something incredibly satisfying about digging into this comforting Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe that feels both luxurious and homey. It’s a wonderful way to share a meal that’s hearty, flavorful, and surprisingly easy to pull off. Trust me, once you try it, this will become one of your go-to dishes for weeknight dinners or special occasions alike. So grab your skillet, get cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!
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Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This hearty Gnocchi Bolognese recipe features tender potato gnocchi seared to golden perfection and combined with a rich, flavorful Bolognese sauce made from ground beef, cherry tomatoes, and aromatic seasonings. Ready in just 40 minutes, it’s a comforting and satisfying Italian-inspired meal perfect for family dinners.
Ingredients
Meat and Sauce
- 1 pound 85/15 ground beef
- 3–4 tablespoons olive oil, divided
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 shallot, finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes
- 4 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 3/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt, to taste
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Pasta
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 1 cup water, divided
Garnishes
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
Instructions
- Brown the Beef: Add the ground beef to a large nonstick skillet over medium heat. Cook, breaking apart the meat, for about 7-8 minutes. Then, cook undisturbed for an additional 2-4 minutes until the meat is browned and slightly crispy. Transfer the beef to a clean plate and set aside.
- Sear the Gnocchi: Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil at a time to the leftover fat in the pan until you’ve coated the bottom with about 1-2 tablespoons. Add the potato gnocchi in a single layer and cook undisturbed for 5-6 minutes, or until lightly golden. Flip the gnocchi, add 2-3 tablespoons of the water, and cook for another 2-3 minutes until tender. Turn off the heat and let the gnocchi rest in the skillet.
- Infuse the Oil: In a separate pot or skillet over medium-low heat, add the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil and the red pepper flakes. Cook for 1 minute until the flakes begin to release their color into the oil, stirring occasionally.
- Cook Shallots: Increase the heat to medium and add the diced shallot. Cook until the shallot is translucent, about 2 minutes.
- Add Tomato Paste: Stir in the tomato paste along with 1/4 cup of the water. Cook over medium heat for 1-2 minutes, or until the paste is no longer bright red. Gradually add the remaining water, a few tablespoons at a time, mixing well after each addition.
- Cook Tomatoes: Add the cherry tomatoes to the sauce and cook for 5-6 minutes, or until they become tender. Once soft, smash the tomatoes with the back of a spatula or spoon until they burst.
- Season and Simmer: Add the minced garlic, oregano, salt, and black pepper to the sauce. Stir and continue simmering for 5 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
- Combine and Serve: Mix in the crumbled browned beef and seared gnocchi with the sauce. Toss to combine and warm through, then serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
Notes
- Use 85/15 ground beef for a good balance of flavor and fat content.
- Be sure to brown the beef well for added texture and flavor.
- Searing the gnocchi before combining adds a nice crispy texture.
- Adjust red pepper flakes to taste, depending on your spice preference.
- If cherry tomatoes are not in season, canned whole peeled tomatoes can be a substitute.
- Serve immediately for the best texture of gnocchi.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian