If you’re craving a comforting, rich, and easy-to-make dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Ground Beef Gnocchi in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Perfectly tender potato gnocchi simmered in a luscious tomato sauce loaded with savory ground beef and a touch of cream creates an irresistible combination that melts in your mouth. Every bite is bursting with flavor, thanks to the fresh garlic, Italian seasoning, and a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing friends, this dish comes together quickly and delivers big on satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Getting the ingredients right means your dish will have all the perfect elements working together — from the hearty ground beef to the creamy tomato sauce and fluffy gnocchi. Each component is simple, but essential to make this dish shine with flavor, texture, and color.
- 1 pound lean ground beef: Provides a savory, meaty base that’s juicy and satisfying without being too greasy.
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped: Adds sweetness and depth when sautéed with the beef.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the sauce with aromatic warmth and a little zesty punch.
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning: Brings a herby, Mediterranean touch to the sauce.
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices: Creates the fresh and slightly tangy foundation of the sauce.
- 1/3 cup chicken or beef broth: Boosts flavor while keeping the sauce silky and richly balanced.
- 3/4 cup heavy or whipping cream: Adds indulgent creaminess that smooths out the tomato acidity beautifully.
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi: Delivers tender, pillowy bites that soak up the sauce wonderfully.
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese: Finishes the dish with a nutty, salty kick that ties everything together.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential for seasoning and balancing all the flavors perfectly.
How to Make Ground Beef Gnocchi in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef and Onion
Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat and cook the ground beef with the chopped onion. Let the beef brown well to develop those rich, savory flavors, which are key to the dish. If there’s a lot of excess fat, spoon most of it out to keep the sauce from becoming too greasy.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Italian Seasoning
Once your beef and onions are nicely browned, stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning. This step releases the fragrant oils in the garlic and infuses the beef with herbs, setting the stage for that classic Italian-inspired flavor profile you’re craving.
Step 3: Combine Tomatoes, Broth, Cream, and Gnocchi
Pour in the can of diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken or beef broth, and the heavy cream. Then add the uncooked potato gnocchi right into the sauce. Stir it all together gently and let the sauce come back to a bubbly simmer. Cover the pan and reduce the heat to medium, allowing the gnocchi to cook through while soaking in all the delicious flavors for about 5 minutes.
Step 4: Finish Cooking and Thicken the Sauce
Uncover the pan and give everything a good stir. Let it cook a little longer until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce thickens to your desired consistency. This step creates a rich, creamy coating that clings beautifully to the gnocchi, making every bite a delight.
Step 5: Stir in Parmesan and Season
Finally, mix in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese, which adds a wonderful nutty saltiness to balance the cream and tomatoes. Taste and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dish immediately for that fresh, comforting flavor that feels like a homemade hug!
How to Serve Ground Beef Gnocchi in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
Simple garnishes can elevate this dish from great to spectacular. Sprinkle some extra Parmesan or a handful of fresh chopped basil or parsley over the top for a bright, fresh note. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil or a few red pepper flakes also add wonderful finishing touches.
Side Dishes
Serve this dish alongside some lightly dressed greens or a crisp Caesar salad to add freshness and contrast to the creamy sauce. Crusty garlic bread or a simple baguette is perfect for soaking up every last bit of the sauce and rounding out the meal beautifully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a show-stopping presentation, plate the gnocchi neatly in shallow bowls and garnish artistically with microgreens or edible flowers. You might even serve it in individual mini cast iron skillets straight from the stove for a rustic, homey feel that’s perfect for a dinner party.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This Ground Beef Gnocchi in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors marry even more beautifully overnight, making it a perfect next-day meal.
Freezing
If you want to freeze leftovers, place the gnocchi and sauce in a freezer-safe container. Keep in mind that gnocchi can sometimes change texture after freezing, so it’s best eaten within one month. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, so the sauce stays creamy and doesn’t separate. Adding a splash of broth or cream during reheating can help restore silky texture if needed.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works just as well as fresh. Just increase the cooking time slightly until the gnocchi are tender, and follow the same steps for delicious results.
Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?
Definitely. Simply skip the ground beef and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini to maintain heartiness. You can also use plant-based ground meat substitutes for a vegetarian-friendly protein boost.
What type of cream is best for the sauce?
Heavy cream or whipping cream is perfect here because it adds richness and smoothness that balance the acidity of the tomatoes. Half-and-half might work but won’t be as thick and creamy.
How spicy is this recipe?
This version isn’t spicy—it’s focused on savory, creamy, and herby flavors. If you love heat, you can add crushed red pepper flakes during cooking or as a garnish to give it a little kick.
Can I prepare any parts of this dish in advance?
You can brown the ground beef and onions ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours. When you’re ready, simply finish cooking by adding the remaining ingredients, making dinner even quicker.
Final Thoughts
This Ground Beef Gnocchi in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe is one of those magical meals that feels both special and effortlessly easy. With minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, it delivers maximum flavor and coziness on a plate. I can’t wait for you to try it yourself and discover how this creamy, savory dish becomes an instant favorite for any night of the week.
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Ground Beef Gnocchi in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Description
A comforting and hearty Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe that combines tender potato gnocchi with a creamy tomato sauce, seasoned ground beef, and a touch of parmesan cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish brings together rich flavors and satisfying textures in just 25 minutes.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 1 pound lean ground beef
- 1/2 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
Seasonings and Liquids
- 1/4 teaspoon Italian seasoning, or to taste
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1/3 cup chicken or beef broth
- 3/4 cup heavy/whipping cream
Main Ingredient
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
Finishing Touches
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Beef and Onion: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the ground beef and chopped onion for 7-10 minutes until the beef is browned and the onion is softened. If excess fat accumulates, spoon most of it out to avoid greasiness.
- Add Garlic and Italian Seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning to the beef and onion mixture, cooking briefly to release the aromas.
- Add Tomatoes, Broth, Cream, and Gnocchi: Pour in the diced tomatoes with juices, chicken or beef broth, heavy cream, and uncooked gnocchi. Stir well to combine. Once the sauce starts bubbling, cover the pan and reduce the heat to medium. Let it cook for 5 minutes to allow the gnocchi to cook through.
- Simmer and Thicken Sauce: Remove the lid, stir the mixture gently, and continue cooking for a few more minutes until the gnocchi is soft and the sauce has thickened to your liking.
- Finish with Parmesan and Seasoning: Stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately while hot and creamy.
Notes
- Use lean ground beef to reduce fat content and make the dish lighter.
- If you prefer a spicier flavor, add red pepper flakes along with the Italian seasoning.
- For a richer sauce, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half, but the sauce will be less creamy.
- Make sure not to overcook the gnocchi as it can become mushy; it should be tender but hold its shape.
- Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop or microwave.
