Print

Gnocchi with Meat Sauce

Gnocchi with Meat Sauce
Print Recipe

Gnocchi with Meat Sauce is a comforting and easy-to-make dinner featuring soft, pillowy potato gnocchi combined with a rich and savory meat sauce. This family-friendly dish balances tender textures and hearty flavors, perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Gnocchi

  • Potato gnocchi (around 1 lb or 500g)

For the Meat Sauce

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2–3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 lb (450g) ground beef or pork
  • 1 can (14 oz / 400g) crushed tomatoes
  • Salt, to taste
  • Black pepper, to taste
  • 2 tablespoons fresh basil, chopped
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

To Serve

  • Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, as desired
  • Extra fresh herbs (basil or parsley), optional
  • Extra olive oil for drizzling, optional

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Meat Sauce: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add finely chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing until soft and fragrant, about 3-5 minutes. Add the ground beef or pork, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked through, around 7-10 minutes.
  2. Add Tomatoes and Seasonings: Stir in the canned crushed tomatoes along with salt, pepper, and chopped fresh basil and parsley. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for about 20 minutes, stirring occasionally to develop deep, rich flavors.
  3. Cook the Gnocchi: While the sauce simmers, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the potato gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked gnocchi directly into the meat sauce.
  4. Combine and Serve: Gently stir the gnocchi into the meat sauce to coat evenly. Let everything warm together for 1-2 minutes, then remove from heat. Serve immediately topped with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and extra herbs or a drizzle of olive oil if desired.

Notes

  • Use quality fresh or good store-bought gnocchi for best texture.
  • Don’t overcook gnocchi; wait until they float for perfect tenderness.
  • Simmer the sauce slowly to meld and deepen flavors.
  • Add fresh herbs at the end to preserve their vibrant flavor and color.
  • Season gradually and taste to avoid over-salting, especially if using salty cheese.

Nutrition

Keywords: gnocchi, meat sauce, Italian dinner, comfort food, easy dinner, weeknight meal, potato gnocchi, ground beef, ground pork

Find it online: https://mealsbylina.com/gnocchi-with-meat-sauce/