One-Pot Ground Beef Gnocchi Recipe – Easy, Flavorful & Family-Friendly Dinner!

Table of Contents: Ground Beef Gnocchi

Ground Beef Gnocchi

Picture this: pillowy soft gnocchi, savory ground beef, and a rich, velvety sauce—all cooked in one pan for minimal cleanup. This Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe is the ultimate comfort food, perfect for busy weeknights, cozy family dinners, or even impressing guests with minimal effort. Whether you call it Gnocchi Bolognese or Creamy Beef and Gnocchi, this dish delivers restaurant-quality flavor in under 30 minutes. Ready to dive into a bowl of pure comfort? Let’s get cooking!

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Introduction: Ground Beef Gnocchi – The Ultimate Comfort Dish

There’s something magical about the combination of tender gnocchi and hearty ground beef simmered in a luscious sauce. This Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe is a game-changer—quick, satisfying, and packed with flavor. It’s the kind of meal that feels indulgent yet comes together effortlessly, making it ideal for those nights when you crave something comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.

This dish is a fantastic twist on classic Gnocchi Bolognese, offering a creamy, rich texture that pairs perfectly with the soft potato dumplings. Plus, since it’s a one-pan gnocchi recipe, cleanup is a breeze. Whether you’re feeding a hungry family, hosting a casual dinner party, or just treating yourself to a delicious meal, this recipe is a winner.

The best part? You don’t need any fancy ingredients—just simple, pantry-friendly staples that transform into a restaurant-worthy dish. Let’s explore how to make this creamy beef and gnocchi masterpiece!

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Alternate Names & Variations

This dish goes by many names, depending on how you prepare it:
– Gnocchi Bolognese (if using a tomato-based sauce)
– Creamy Beef and Gnocchi (with a white or cheese sauce)
– One-Pan Gnocchi with Ground Beef (for minimal cleanup)

Variations to Try:
– Swap ground beef for Italian sausage or ground turkey.
– Add mushrooms or spinach for extra veggies.
– Use a marinara base instead of cream for a lighter version.

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Ingredients: Ground Beef Gnocchi

Ground Beef Gnocchi

Here’s what you’ll need for this creamy beef and gnocchi dish:

• – 1 lb (450g) ground beef (85% lean for best flavor)
• – 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• – 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
• – 3 garlic cloves, minced
• – 1 cup beef broth (for depth of flavor)
• – ½ cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
• – 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes (or tomato sauce for a bolognese-style version)
• – 1 tsp dried oregano
• – 1 tsp dried basil
• – ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• – ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• – 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• – Salt and black pepper to taste
• – 2 tbsp olive oil

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Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the Ground Beef

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until browned (about 5-6 minutes). Drain excess fat if needed.

Chef’s Tip: For extra flavor, season the beef with salt and pepper while cooking.

2. Sauté Onions & Garlic

Add the diced onion and cook until translucent (3-4 minutes). Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.

3. Add Gnocchi & Liquids

Stir in the gnocchi (no need to boil first!), followed by beef broth, diced tomatoes, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes. Bring to a simmer.

Chef’s Tip: The gnocchi cooks directly in the sauce, absorbing all the delicious flavors.

4. Simmer Until Gnocchi is Tender

Cover and cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until gnocchi is soft and sauce thickens slightly.

5. Finish with Cream & Cheese

Reduce heat to low, stir in heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Let it simmer for another 2 minutes.

6. Garnish & Serve

Top with fresh parsley and extra Parmesan. Serve hot with crusty bread or a side salad.

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Recipe Card (Quick Reference)

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 20 mins | Total Time: 30 mins
Servings: 4 | Calories: ~550 per serving

This one-pan gnocchi recipe is perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.

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Why This Recipe Works & Expert Tips

– No pre-boiling needed—gnocchi cooks right in the sauce, saving time and dishes.
– Creamy yet balanced—the combination of beef broth, tomatoes, and cream creates a rich but not overly heavy sauce.
– Customizable—swap ingredients based on what you have (try Italian sausage or mushrooms).

Pro Tip: For extra crispy gnocchi, pan-fry them in a separate skillet before adding to the sauce.

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Storage, Freezing, and Reheating Tips

– Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
– Freeze (without cream) for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat with a splash of broth or cream.
– Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally.

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People Also Ask: Ground Beef Gnocchi

Do you have to boil gnocchi before pan-frying?

No! One of the best things about this one-pan gnocchi recipe is that the gnocchi cooks directly in the sauce. The starch from the gnocchi helps thicken the sauce while keeping the dumplings tender. If you prefer a crispier texture, you can pan-fry them separately before adding them to the dish.

What is a good sauce for gnocchi with ground beef?

A creamy tomato-based sauce (like in this recipe) or a rich Gnocchi Bolognese with marinara works beautifully. For a lighter option, try a garlic-butter sauce or a simple Parmesan cream sauce. The key is balancing richness with acidity for the best flavor.

How do you know when gnocchi is cooked?

Gnocchi is done when it floats to the top of boiling water (if pre-boiling) or becomes tender when pressed with a fork (in this recipe, about 5-7 minutes in the sauce). Overcooked gnocchi turns mushy, so keep an eye on it.

Is gnocchi a pasta or a potato?

Gnocchi is technically a potato dumpling, not traditional pasta. Made from mashed potatoes, flour, and sometimes egg, it has a soft, pillowy texture. Some versions use ricotta or semolina flour, but potato gnocchi is the most common.

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Conclusion: Try This Ground Beef Gnocchi Tonight!

This Ground Beef Gnocchi is the ultimate comfort dish—creamy, hearty, and ready in 30 minutes. Whether you call it Gnocchi Bolognese or Creamy Beef and Gnocchi, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Did you make this recipe? Tag us on Pinterest or Facebook—we’d love to see your creations!

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