Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe

Looking for a comforting, hearty, and easy-to-make dinner? This Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe is just what you need! With tender gnocchi, seasoned ground beef, and a rich, savory sauce, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Keep reading to discover everything you need to know about making this delicious recipe, from ingredients to cooking tips, substitutions, and presentation ideas!

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What is Ground Beef Gnocchi?

Ground Beef Gnocchi is a delicious and filling dish that combines tender potato gnocchi with ground beef and a flavorful tomato or creamy sauce. Gnocchi, which are small Italian dumplings made from potatoes, flour, and sometimes eggs, pair perfectly with the rich taste of ground beef. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights as it can be made in one pan and comes together in under 30 minutes. The combination of textures and flavors makes it a satisfying meal that’s also versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences.

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Ingredients List for Ground Beef Gnocchi

To make this Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe, you'll need the following ingredients:

Main Ingredients:

• 1 lb (450g) ground beef – Use lean ground beef for a healthier option.
• 1 lb (450g) potato gnocchi – Fresh or store-bought.
• 1 medium onion, diced.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced.
• 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes or 1 cup marinara sauce – Choose a high-quality brand for the best flavor.
• ½ cup heavy cream or cream cheese (optional, for creamy sauce variation).
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese – Optional, for topping.
• 2 tablespoon olive oil – For sautéing.
• Salt and black pepper – To taste.
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning – For added flavor.
• Fresh basil or parsley – For garnish.

Optional Ingredients:

• ½ cup mushrooms, sliced – Adds earthiness and extra texture.
• ½ bell pepper, chopped – Adds color and flavor.
• Red pepper flakes – For a bit of heat.
• Spinach or kale – A handful of greens for added nutrition.

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Substitutions and Variations

This Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe is incredibly versatile. Here are some ideas to make it your own:

• Ground Turkey or Chicken: Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version.
• Vegetarian Option: Skip the meat altogether and add extra veggies like zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers.
• Dairy-Free Option: Use a dairy-free cream substitute or omit the cheese for a lighter, dairy-free version.
• Tomato-Free Option: Instead of a tomato-based sauce, try a creamy garlic sauce with heavy cream and Parmesan.
• Spicy Version: Add more red pepper flakes or chopped jalapeño for an extra kick.
• Cheesy Gnocchi Bake: Transfer the cooked mixture to a baking dish, top with cheese, and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 10 minutes until bubbly and golden.

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Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the Gnocchi: Follow package instructions for the gnocchi, usually boiling for 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface. Drain and set aside.
2. Brown the Ground Beef: In a large skillet over medium-high heat, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spatula as it cooks. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
3. Sauté the Aromatics: Add diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes until soft and translucent. Then add minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
4. Add Vegetables (if using): At this point, you can add optional veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers. Sauté for a few more minutes until they are softened.
5. Pour in the Sauce: Add the crushed tomatoes or marinara sauce, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together, bring to a simmer, and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
6. Add Cream (if using): For a creamy sauce, stir in the heavy cream or cream cheese and mix until well combined.
7. Combine with Gnocchi: Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss until everything is evenly coated with sauce.
8. Top with Cheese (optional): If you like, sprinkle shredded mozzarella or Parmesan on top and cover the skillet to let the cheese melt.
9. Garnish and Serve: Remove from heat, garnish with fresh basil or parsley, and serve hot.

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How to Cook Ground Beef Gnocchi: A Step-by-Step Guide

1. Prepare Ingredients: Chop the onion, garlic, and optional vegetables.
2. Cook Gnocchi: Boil gnocchi according to package instructions, drain, and set aside.
3. Brown the Beef: In a skillet, cook the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula until no pink remains.
4. Add Aromatics and Veggies: Add onions, garlic, and optional vegetables to the skillet with the beef.
5. Simmer the Sauce: Pour in the tomato or creamy sauce, season with Italian seasoning, and simmer.
6. Combine with Gnocchi and Cheese: Toss gnocchi in the sauce, top with cheese if desired, and serve.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the Gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly and will become mushy if overcooked. Watch carefully and drain as soon as they float.
• Skipping the Sauce Simmer: Letting the sauce simmer helps the flavors meld together. Don’t rush this step!
• Not Draining the Beef: If using a fattier ground beef, make sure to drain the excess fat to avoid a greasy dish.
• Using Low-Quality Sauce: A good sauce makes a big difference. Use high-quality crushed tomatoes or marinara for the best flavor.
• Forgetting to Season: Be sure to taste as you go and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and Italian herbs.

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Serving and Presentation Tips

Ground Beef Gnocchi is a rustic and hearty dish, so it doesn’t need elaborate plating. However, a few presentation touches can elevate your meal!

How to Serve Ground Beef Gnocchi

• Serve the gnocchi directly from the skillet for a cozy, family-style presentation.
• Transfer the dish to a large serving bowl for a more formal meal.
• Pair with a simple green salad and garlic bread for a complete meal.

Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Gnocchi

• Garnish with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves.
• Add a drizzle of olive oil on top for extra richness.
• Serve in individual bowls for a restaurant-style presentation.

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Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe Tips

• Prep Ahead: Dice onions and garlic in advance to save time.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can make a big difference in flavor.
• One-Pot Meal: If you want to make this a one-pot recipe, cook the gnocchi directly in the sauce by adding extra broth or water and simmering until the gnocchi is cooked.
• Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I make this Ground Beef Gnocchi gluten-free? A: Yes, you can use gluten-free gnocchi, which is readily available in most grocery stores.

Q: What’s the best type of ground beef to use? A: Lean ground beef (90% lean or higher) is ideal, as it produces less grease and has a rich flavor.

Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time? A: Yes! You can prepare the sauce and meat mixture ahead, then cook the gnocchi fresh and combine before serving.

Q: Can I freeze Ground Beef Gnocchi? A: Gnocchi doesn’t freeze well as it can become mushy upon reheating, but the beef sauce can be frozen separately.

Q: What other cheese can I use instead of mozzarella? A: Parmesan, provolone, or even a bit of cheddar can work well for different flavor profiles.

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Conclusion

This Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe is a comforting, flavorful, and versatile dish that’s perfect for any night of the week. Whether you’re a novice cook or an experienced chef, you’ll appreciate how quick and easy it is to make. Plus, it’s a one-pan meal that doesn’t leave you with a mountain of dishes! With simple ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and endless customization options, this recipe will become a go-to favorite for the whole family. Try it out tonight, and enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal!

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