Looking for a hearty, comforting dinner that’s quick to prepare? This Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe is exactly what you need! Tender, pillowy gnocchi combined with savory ground beef and a flavorful tomato-based sauce makes for a one-pan meal that’s easy to throw together on a busy weeknight. Whether you’re cooking for your family or just looking to treat yourself, this dish is sure to be a hit. Let’s dive in and learn how to make this delicious meal step-by-step!
What Is Ground Beef Gnocchi?
Ground Beef Gnocchi is a simple, comforting dish made by combining ground beef with soft potato gnocchi and a rich, flavorful sauce. Gnocchi, which are small Italian dumplings typically made from potatoes and flour, are tender and chewy, pairing perfectly with the seasoned beef and sauce. This one-pan dish is quick to make, incredibly satisfying, and offers a great balance of textures and flavors. Plus, it’s a versatile recipe, allowing you to add your favorite vegetables or toppings for extra flavor and nutrition.
Ingredients List for Ground Beef Gnocchi
Here’s everything you’ll need to make this easy and tasty Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe. Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, so you might already have them on hand!
For the Ground Beef Gnocchi:
- Ground Beef – 1 pound (80-85% lean works well for flavor and texture).
- Gnocchi – 1 pound (store-bought or homemade; potato gnocchi is traditional, but you can use any variety).
- Onion – 1 small onion, finely chopped.
- Garlic – 3 cloves, minced.
- Tomato Sauce – 1 can (14.5 oz) of crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce.
- Tomato Paste – 2 tablespoons (for concentrated flavor).
- Beef Broth – 1 cup (adds depth and helps cook the gnocchi).
- Italian Seasoning – 1 teaspoon (a blend of dried oregano, basil, and thyme).
- Red Pepper Flakes – ½ teaspoon (optional, for a bit of heat).
- Parmesan Cheese – ½ cup, grated (for topping).
- Mozzarella Cheese – 1 cup, shredded (optional, for a cheesy finish).
- Olive Oil – 1 tablespoon (for sautéing).
- Salt & Pepper – To taste.
- Fresh Basil or Parsley – For garnish (optional).
Substitutions and Variations
This Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe is very adaptable, so feel free to customize it to your liking! Here are some substitutions and variations to try:
- Meat Alternatives: Swap the ground beef for ground turkey, chicken, pork, or even plant-based meat for a vegetarian option.
- Dairy-Free: If you want a dairy-free version, omit the cheese or use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
- Vegetable Add-Ins: Add vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers to the dish for extra nutrients and flavor.
- Gnocchi Varieties: If you're gluten-free, look for gluten-free gnocchi at your local grocery store. You can also make this recipe with sweet potato gnocchi for a twist!
- Creamy Version: Stir in a splash of cream or half-and-half near the end of cooking for a creamy sauce.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make a delicious and satisfying Ground Beef Gnocchi dinner in no time!
Step 1: Sauté the Ground Beef and Onion
- In a large skillet or sauté pan, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion and sauté until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Drain any excess fat if necessary.
Step 2: Add the Garlic and Seasonings
- Once the beef is browned, add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes (if using), and tomato paste. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow the tomato paste to deepen in flavor.
Step 3: Add the Tomato Sauce and Beef Broth
- Pour in the tomato sauce and beef broth, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- Reduce the heat to low and let it cook for about 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi in the Sauce
- Stir in the gnocchi, making sure they are submerged in the sauce. Cover the skillet and cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through.
- Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and add more broth if the sauce becomes too thick.
Step 5: Add Cheese and Broil (Optional)
- Once the gnocchi are cooked, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
- If you want a cheesy baked finish, sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese on top of the dish.
- Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and garnish with freshly chopped basil or parsley. Serve warm, and enjoy your comforting, cheesy Ground Beef Gnocchi!
How to Cook Ground Beef Gnocchi: A Step-by-Step Guide
To recap, here’s the quick breakdown of how to make Ground Beef Gnocchi:
- Sauté the Beef and Onion: Cook the ground beef and onion until browned.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and tomato paste to build flavor.
- Simmer with Sauce and Broth: Add tomato sauce and broth, then simmer for a few minutes.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Stir the gnocchi into the sauce and cook until tender.
- Add Cheese: Stir in Parmesan and top with mozzarella (if desired), then broil for a cheesy finish.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh herbs and serve!
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the Gnocchi: Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi, as they can become mushy. Cooking them directly in the sauce helps them absorb flavor while maintaining their texture.
- Using Too Much Liquid: Keep an eye on the amount of liquid in the pan—add more broth only if needed. The goal is to have a thick, rich sauce that coats the gnocchi well.
- Skipping the Tomato Paste Step: Cooking the tomato paste briefly before adding liquids intensifies the flavor of the sauce, so don’t skip this important step!
Serving and Presentation Tips
Here are some ideas to elevate the presentation and serving of your Ground Beef Gnocchi dish:
- Garnish with Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley adds color and freshness to balance the rich flavors.
- Serve with a Salad: Pair your gnocchi with a light green salad, dressed with a lemon vinaigrette, to cut through the richness of the dish.
- Add Garlic Bread: Serve with warm, crusty garlic bread to soak up any extra sauce.
- Portion into Small Dishes: For a fancy presentation, portion the gnocchi into individual oven-safe dishes and broil for a cheesy top right before serving.
How to Serve Ground Beef Gnocchi
This one-pan meal is perfect for a cozy dinner, but here are some ways to serve it:
- Family-Style: Serve the gnocchi straight from the skillet in the center of the table for everyone to help themselves.
- In Individual Portions: Spoon portions of the gnocchi onto plates or shallow bowls and garnish each serving with extra Parmesan and herbs.
- With Bread or Salad: Complement this hearty dish with a side of garlic bread or a fresh salad to balance the richness of the sauce.
Presentation Ideas for Ground Beef Gnocchi
For a special presentation, consider these ideas:
- Skillet Serving: Present the dish in a cast iron skillet or a rustic pan for a cozy, family-style meal.
- Extra Cheese on Top: Broil the gnocchi in the skillet with extra mozzarella on top for a golden, bubbly finish.
- Fresh Herbs: Garnish the dish with chopped parsley or basil for a pop of color and freshness.
Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe Tips
- Make It Spicy: Add extra red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce to the sauce for a spicier kick.
- Make It Creamy: For a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half at the end of cooking.
- Freeze for Later: You can freeze leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Reheat in the oven or microwave when ready to eat.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
A: Yes! Frozen gnocchi works just as well. You can cook them directly in the sauce without thawing—just ensure they cook through in the sauce before serving.
Q: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A: Yes! You can prepare the ground beef sauce in advance and store it in the fridge. When ready to serve, reheat the sauce, stir in the gnocchi, and cook as directed.
Q: Can I add vegetables to this dish?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or bell peppers to the sauce for extra flavor and nutrition.
Q: Can I make this dish gluten-free?
A: Yes! Simply use gluten-free gnocchi and make sure the beef broth and any other ingredients are gluten-free as well.
Q: How long will leftovers last?
A: Leftover Ground Beef Gnocchi can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Conclusion
This Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe is a quick and satisfying one-pan meal that’s packed with flavor and incredibly easy to make. Whether you're serving it for a family dinner or prepping it ahead of time for busy weeknights, this dish is sure to become a favorite. The tender gnocchi, rich sauce, and savory ground beef come together to create a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal. So grab your ingredients and try it out—you’ll have a delicious, comforting dinner on the table in no time!
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Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Description
This ground beef gnocchi recipe is a savory, comforting one-pan dish featuring tender gnocchi, seasoned ground beef, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy family dinner. With minimal prep and cook time, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients
- 1 lb ground beef
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ¼ cup heavy cream (optional for creaminess)
- ½ cup shredded mozzarella or Parmesan cheese
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional for garnish)
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced onions and garlic, sautéing until softened, about 3 minutes.
- Add ground beef, breaking it apart as it cooks. Season with Italian seasoning, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook until beef is browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain excess fat if necessary.
- Stir in diced tomatoes and tomato sauce. Simmer for 5 minutes to combine flavors.
- While the sauce simmers, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
- Fold the cooked gnocchi into the beef and tomato mixture. Stir in heavy cream (if using) for a richer sauce.
- Top with shredded cheese and cover for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Serve hot.
Notes
- For extra veggies, add spinach or bell peppers to the beef mixture.
- Swap ground beef for turkey or plant-based meat for a lighter version.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (about 1 ½ cups)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 800mg
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