Description
Gnocchi Bolognese is a cozy, comforting Italian dish featuring pillowy gnocchi smothered in a rich, slow-simmered meat sauce with tomatoes, wine, and herbs.
Ingredients
- 1 lb gnocchi (fresh, homemade, or store-bought potato gnocchi)
- 1 lb ground beef or a mix of ground beef and pork
- 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
- 1 medium carrot, finely chopped
- 1 celery stalk, finely chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tbsp tomato paste
- 1/2 cup dry red wine
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian herbs (oregano, thyme, basil), fresh or dried
- Salt, to taste
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large sauté pan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until soft, then stir in garlic and cook for 1 more minute.
- Add ground meat, season with salt and pepper, and cook until browned, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain excess fat if desired.
- Pour in red wine, scraping up browned bits. Reduce wine by half, then stir in tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, Italian herbs, and milk. Reduce heat and simmer for 30–40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Meanwhile, bring a pot of salted water to boil. Cook gnocchi until they float, about 2–3 minutes. Remove with a slotted spoon and transfer to the sauce.
- Toss gnocchi gently in the Bolognese sauce to coat. If sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water. Adjust seasoning and serve with grated Parmesan.
Notes
- Top with fresh basil, parsley, or a drizzle of olive oil for extra flavor.
- Pair with a green salad or garlicky greens, and crusty bread for a full meal.
- Serve in shallow bowls or mini baking dishes with broiled mozzarella for a twist.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for later use.
- Reheat gently on the stovetop with a splash of milk or water to loosen the sauce.
- Substitute meat with mushrooms and lentils for a vegetarian version.
- Use broth instead of wine for a non-alcoholic alternative.
