If you’re looking for a comforting, hearty, and delicious meal that’s also easy to make, this Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe is perfect for you! Combining the savory flavor of ground beef with soft, pillowy gnocchi, this dish offers a satisfying bite in every spoonful. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, a casual get-together, or just yourself, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Read on to discover how to make this tasty dish, plus tips, substitutions, and presentation ideas that will take it to the next level!

What is Ground Beef Gnocchi?
Ground beef gnocchi is a versatile, one-pan meal that features gnocchi (Italian potato dumplings) combined with seasoned ground beef and a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s a delicious combination of flavors and textures that can be customized with a variety of vegetables, seasonings, and cheeses. This dish is quick enough for a weeknight dinner but fancy enough to impress guests. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced home cook, this recipe is straightforward and yields fantastic results.
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Gnocchi
To make this dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 lb (450g) ground beef – Opt for lean ground beef for a less greasy dish, or choose a fattier blend for extra flavor.
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi – Store-bought or homemade, gnocchi are little potato dumplings that cook quickly and absorb flavors well.
- 1 small onion, diced – Adds sweetness and depth to the sauce.
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced – Garlic brings a warm, aromatic flavor to the dish.
- 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes – The base of the sauce, providing a rich, tangy flavor.
- ¼ cup tomato paste – Thickens the sauce and enhances the tomato flavor.
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds an earthy, herbal flavor that complements the tomato sauce.
- ½ teaspoon dried basil – Basil lends a sweet, aromatic touch to the sauce.
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional) – For a little heat.
- Salt and pepper to taste – To season the beef and sauce.
- ½ cup beef broth or water – Helps loosen the sauce and allow the gnocchi to cook perfectly.
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional) – For a creamy, luxurious sauce.
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese – For that perfect cheesy finish.
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish) – Adds a fresh, vibrant touch.
Ingredient List for Ground Beef Gnocchi Variations
For a twist on the classic recipe, here are some additional ingredients you can include to make your ground beef gnocchi more flavorful or healthier:
- Vegetables: Add 1 cup of spinach, kale, or bell peppers for extra nutrients and color.
- Mushrooms: 1 cup of sliced mushrooms will add a rich umami flavor to the dish.
- Zucchini: Diced zucchini can lighten up the dish and add texture.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: For a tangy, concentrated tomato flavor, toss in ¼ cup of chopped sun-dried tomatoes.
- Ground sausage: Swap half the ground beef with Italian sausage for a spicier, more robust flavor.
- Pesto: Drizzle pesto over the finished dish for an herbaceous punch.
Substitutions and Variations
This recipe is highly adaptable. Here are a few common substitutions and variations:
- Ground turkey or chicken: If you prefer a leaner protein, you can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. Adjust the seasoning to taste since these proteins have a milder flavor.
- Vegan option: Use plant-based ground “beef” and skip the cheese or use a dairy-free alternative. Substitute heavy cream with coconut cream or almond milk for a creamy texture without dairy.
- Different sauces: Instead of a tomato-based sauce, try a cream-based sauce by omitting the crushed tomatoes and adding more cream and cheese. You can also use a pesto sauce for a completely different flavor profile.
- Gluten-free gnocchi: If you’re gluten-intolerant, many stores carry gluten-free gnocchi made with alternative flours like rice or chickpea flour.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these easy steps to make your ground beef gnocchi:
- Cook the ground beef: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if needed.
- Sauté the aromatics: Push the ground beef to one side of the pan and add the diced onion and garlic to the other side. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is softened and fragrant.
- Make the sauce: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Mix everything together and let it simmer for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Add the gnocchi: Pour in the beef broth or water and bring the sauce to a simmer. Add the gnocchi and stir to coat them in the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through.
- Finish the dish: If you want a creamy sauce, stir in the heavy cream. Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Sprinkle the mozzarella or Parmesan cheese over the top, cover the skillet, and let it melt for about 2 minutes.
- Garnish and serve: Once the cheese has melted, remove the skillet from the heat. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and serve hot.
How to Cook Ground Beef Gnocchi: A Step-by-Step Guide
Cooking ground beef gnocchi is straightforward, but a few small details will help you achieve the best results:
- Brown the beef properly: Ensure the ground beef is evenly browned and fully cooked before moving on to the next step. This adds a lot of flavor to the dish.
- Don’t overcrowd the pan: If your pan is too small, the gnocchi might steam instead of cook properly. Use a large enough skillet to give all the ingredients room to cook evenly.
- Simmer the sauce: Let the tomato sauce simmer for at least 5-10 minutes. This allows the flavors to develop and meld together, creating a deeper, richer sauce.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoid these common mistakes to ensure your ground beef gnocchi turns out perfectly:
- Overcooking the gnocchi: Gnocchi cook quickly, usually within 3-4 minutes. Overcooking them can make them mushy. Be sure to follow the cooking times and check for doneness.
- Not draining excess fat: If your ground beef has a higher fat content, make sure to drain the excess fat after browning it to avoid a greasy sauce.
- Skipping seasoning: Don’t forget to season your dish at every step—when cooking the ground beef, when making the sauce, and when finishing the dish. This ensures a balanced and flavorful result.
- Using too much liquid: When adding broth or water, use just enough to cook the gnocchi and loosen the sauce, but don’t overdo it, or you’ll end up with a watery dish.
Serving and Presentation Tips
Ground beef gnocchi is a rustic dish, but that doesn’t mean you can’t make it look appealing! Here are some presentation tips to elevate your meal:
- Garnish with herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
- Serve in a wide, shallow bowl: This allows you to see all the components of the dish, making it look more appetizing.
- Add a drizzle of olive oil: For a glossy finish, drizzle a little extra virgin olive oil over the top just before serving.
- Grated Parmesan on the side: Serve with extra Parmesan cheese for guests to sprinkle on top.
How to Serve Ground Beef Gnocchi
This dish is rich and filling, so it pairs well with lighter sides such as:
- A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness of the gnocchi.
- Steamed or roasted vegetables, like asparagus, broccoli, or zucchini, for added nutrition.
- Garlic bread or a crusty baguette to soak up the sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Gnocchi
To take your presentation to the next level, consider these ideas:
- Individual servings: Plate the gnocchi in individual bowls, garnishing each with a sprig of fresh herbs and a sprinkle of grated cheese.
- Family-style: Serve the gnocchi in a large, shallow dish in the center of the table, allowing everyone to help themselves. This is perfect for a cozy, communal feel.
- Rustic charm: Serve the gnocchi in a cast-iron skillet or ceramic baking dish for a warm, rustic presentation that invites people to dig in.
Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe Tips
Here are some additional tips to help you perfect your ground beef gnocchi:
- Make it ahead: You can prepare the sauce in advance and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready to serve, simply reheat the sauce and cook the gnocchi directly in it.
- Add a crispy topping: For extra texture, sprinkle the dish with toasted breadcrumbs or crushed croutons just before serving.
- Double the recipe: This recipe can easily be doubled if you're cooking for a crowd. Leftovers also reheat well and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I freeze ground beef gnocchi?
A: Yes, you can freeze the cooked dish. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Q: Can I use homemade gnocchi?
A: Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi adds a special touch, but store-bought gnocchi works perfectly fine for convenience.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Q: Is it okay to use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
A: Yes, you can use fresh tomatoes, but you’ll need to cook them longer to break them down into a sauce. Blanch and peel them first for the best texture.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe is an excellent option for anyone looking for a hearty, flavorful, and easy-to-make meal. With its rich sauce, tender gnocchi, and customizable variations, it’s sure to be a hit at the dinner table. Whether you're serving it for a quick weeknight meal or a special occasion, this dish will satisfy everyone. Don't forget to get creative with substitutions and presentation to make it your own! Happy cooking!
PrintGround Beef Gnocchi Recipe
This Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe is a savory, hearty dish made with tender gnocchi, ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce. Perfect for a quick, satisfying dinner, it's easy to make and full of flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Diet: Gluten Free
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 package gnocchi
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can crushed tomatoes
- ½ cup grated Parmesan
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Fresh basil for garnish
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add ground beef, cook until browned. Season with salt and pepper.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, simmer for 10 minutes.
- In a separate pot, cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain.
- Toss the cooked gnocchi into the beef mixture, stirring well to combine.
- Top with grated Parmesan and fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute ground turkey for a leaner option.
- For extra richness, add a splash of heavy cream to the sauce.
- Serve with a side salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 500 kcal
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
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