Description
A hearty, comforting Italian-inspired bake made with pillowy gnocchi tossed in a rich, meaty Bolognese sauce, topped with gooey melted cheese and baked to golden perfection.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound ground beef (or a mix of beef and pork)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 carrot, finely diced
- 1 celery stalk, finely diced
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon chili flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup whole milk or cream
- 1 pound (500g) potato gnocchi
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, carrot, and celery and cook for 5 minutes until softened.
- Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Add the ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon.
- Stir in the tomato paste, crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, chili flakes, salt, and pepper. Simmer for 15–20 minutes.
- Stir in milk or cream to create a rich, smooth sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
- Meanwhile, cook the gnocchi according to package directions; drain and set aside.
- Combine the gnocchi with the Bolognese sauce in a large baking dish and mix well.
- Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
- Bake for 20 minutes or until bubbly and golden brown on top.
- Garnish with fresh basil before serving.
Notes
- You can prepare the Bolognese sauce ahead of time and refrigerate for up to 2 days.
- For extra cheesiness, add ricotta or béchamel between layers.
- Try using spicy Italian sausage instead of ground beef for more flavor.
- Prep Time: 15 mins
- Cook Time: 40 mins
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian