When it comes to quick, satisfying, and restaurant-quality meals, this ground beef gnocchi recipe checks all the boxes. Featuring tender potato gnocchi, rich ground beef, and a creamy tomato sauce, this one-pan dish brings together the best of Italian and American flavors in just 25 minutes. If you’re looking for an easy weeknight dinner that feels gourmet, you’ve found it.
Why You’ll Love This Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe
- One-Pan Convenience: Everything cooks in a single pan, reducing cleanup time.
- Quick & Easy: A total cooking time of just 25 minutes makes it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich & Creamy: A luscious sauce made with tomatoes, cream, and parmesan coats each bite.
- Comfort Food: The pillowy gnocchi and hearty ground beef create a comforting, filling meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this ground beef gnocchi, you’ll need simple pantry staples and fresh ingredients:
- 1 pound lean ground beef – Adds richness and protein to the dish.
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped – Enhances the flavor with a subtle sweetness.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Brings aromatic depth to the sauce.
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning – A blend of herbs to add authentic Italian flavor.
- 1 (14-ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices – Adds acidity and texture to the creamy sauce.
- 1/3 cup chicken or beef broth – Helps create a flavorful base for the sauce.
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream – Provides a velvety, creamy texture.
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi – No need to pre-cook; it cooks right in the sauce.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese – Adds a salty, umami flavor.
- Salt & pepper to taste – Essential seasonings to enhance the overall dish.
How to Make Ground Beef Gnocchi
Step 1: Cook the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and chopped onion for about 7-10 minutes. Stir occasionally, breaking up the beef as it cooks. If there’s excess grease, spoon most of it out.
Step 2: Add Seasonings and Aromatics
Stir in the garlic and Italian seasoning, letting the flavors meld for about a minute. This step helps infuse the beef with aromatic goodness.
Step 3: Add the Sauce Ingredients
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken or beef broth, and heavy cream. Stir well to combine everything.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Add the uncooked gnocchi directly into the skillet. Stir everything together and let the sauce come to a gentle bubble. Reduce the heat to medium, cover the pan, and let it cook for about 5 minutes.
Step 5: Thicken the Sauce
After 5 minutes, uncover the pan and stir the gnocchi. Let it cook for another few minutes, allowing the sauce to thicken and the gnocchi to become tender.
Step 6: Finish with Parmesan
Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese and adjust with salt and pepper to taste. The cheese will melt into the sauce, making it even richer and creamier.
Step 7: Serve and Enjoy
Serve immediately, garnishing with extra parmesan and fresh basil if desired. Pair it with a side of garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Recipe Tips & Variations
- No Pre-Cooking Required: The gnocchi cooks right in the sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors.
- Make it Spicy: Add red pepper flakes for a little heat.
- Use Different Proteins: Swap ground beef for Italian sausage, ground turkey, or ground chicken for a variation.
- Enhance the Flavor: Stir in fresh basil or spinach at the end for added color and nutrients.
- Extra Cheesy: Add mozzarella cheese and broil for a few minutes for a cheesy, baked effect.
What to Serve with Ground Beef Gnocchi
This dish is rich and hearty on its own, but pairing it with a few sides can elevate the meal:
- Garlic Bread – Perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.
- Side Salad – A simple Caesar or arugula salad balances the richness.
- Roasted Vegetables – Try roasted zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers for added texture.
Storage & Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
- Freeze: Not recommended, as the cream sauce may separate upon thawing.
Nutrition Information (Per Serving)
- Calories: 574 kcal
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Protein: 36g
- Fat: 27g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Cholesterol: 142mg
- Sodium: 882mg
- Potassium: 673mg
- Fiber: 4g
- Sugar: 3g
- Vitamin A: 880 IU
- Vitamin C: 13mg
- Calcium: 243mg
- Iron: 8mg
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🍽️ Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi – A One-Pan Delight!
Description
There’s something comforting about a meal that comes together in one pan, especially on busy nights. This Ground Beef Gnocchi is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor—just like something from a cozy Italian kitchen. The best part? No need to pre-cook the gnocchi! It soaks up all that delicious sauce, making each bite melt in your mouth. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special meal for loved ones, this dish will have everyone asking for seconds! Try it tonight and enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 lb lean ground beef
- ½ medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ tsp Italian seasoning (or to taste)
- 1 (14 oz) can diced tomatoes (with juices)
- ⅓ cup chicken or beef broth
- ¾ cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1 lb uncooked potato gnocchi
- ½ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
1️⃣ In a skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef and onion for 7-10 minutes. Drain excess fat if needed.
2️⃣ Stir in garlic and Italian seasoning.
3️⃣ Add diced tomatoes, broth, cream, and gnocchi. Stir well.
4️⃣ Once bubbling, cover and reduce heat to medium. Cook for 5 minutes.
5️⃣ Uncover, stir, and let cook until gnocchi is soft and the sauce thickens.
6️⃣ Stir in parmesan cheese, season with salt & pepper, and serve immediately.
Notes
Add fresh basil at the end for extra flavor
Why This Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe is a Must-Try
If you love easy, flavorful, and comforting meals, this ground beef gnocchi is for you. With its creamy, rich sauce and soft, pillowy gnocchi, this dish is perfect for family dinners, cozy nights, or when you need something satisfying yet simple. Try it tonight and experience gourmet flavors with minimal effort