Name: Ground Beef Gnocchi in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely diced; 1 pound ground beef; 2 garlic cloves, finely diced; 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix; 1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes; 1/2 cup beef broth; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 pound gnocchi, uncooked; 1/3 cup Parmesan, grated; 6-8 fresh basil leaves; Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

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Introduction

Ground Beef Gnocchi is a comforting and flavorful one-pan dish combining tender gnocchi with a rich, creamy tomato and beef sauce. This easy recipe is perfect for a satisfying weeknight meal that comes together quickly.

A close-up view of a pan filled with creamy gnocchi mixed with a rich, orange-colored sauce that has a slightly chunky texture from ground meat and herbs scattered throughout. The gnocchi pieces are plump and bright yellow, sitting evenly in the thick sauce that covers them completely. Small green herb leaves are sprinkled on top, adding a fresh pop of color. In the background, ripe red tomatoes on the vine and a white marbled surface with a cheese grater and cheese chunks are visible, adding a rustic, fresh kitchen feel. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion (finely diced)
1 pound ground beef
2 garlic cloves (finely diced)
1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning mix
1/4 teaspoon red chili flakes
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes
1/2 cup beef broth
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 pound gnocchi (uncooked)
1/3 cup Parmesan (grated)
6-8 fresh basil leaves
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

Step 1: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat and cook the diced onion for 2-3 minutes until it begins to soften.
Step 2: Add the ground beef and cook for about 5 minutes until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
Step 3: Stir in the garlic and cook for another minute. Then add the Italian seasoning, red chili flakes, and tomato paste, cooking for an additional minute.
Step 4: Pour in the crushed tomatoes and beef broth, stir well, and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
Step 5: Mix in the heavy cream, simmer for one minute, then add the uncooked gnocchi. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Step 6: Stir in the grated Parmesan, season with salt and pepper to taste, sprinkle fresh basil leaves on top, and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For extra flavor, use a mixture of ground beef and Italian sausage.
If you prefer a spicier dish, increase the red chili flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.
Swap heavy cream for half-and-half for a lighter sauce.
Use fresh gnocchi if available for a more tender texture.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce if needed.

How to Serve

A black bowl filled with creamy orange gnocchi in a thick sauce mixed with ground meat and small green basil leaves scattered on top. The gnocchi are soft and plump, coated well in the sauce which has a smooth, slightly chunky texture from the meat. The bowl is placed on a wooden surface with chunks of pale yellow cheese and a small metal grater nearby, along with a cluster of red tomatoes on the vine and fresh green basil leaves for garnish. A pink cloth with black edges lies partially under the bowl. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use other types of meat instead of ground beef?

Yes, ground turkey, chicken, or pork can be used as alternatives. Adjust cooking times accordingly and season to taste.

Do I need to boil the gnocchi before adding it to the sauce?

No, this recipe uses uncooked gnocchi which cooks directly in the sauce. This method saves time and allows the gnocchi to absorb the flavors better.