Print
clockclock iconcutlerycutlery iconflagflag iconfolderfolder iconinstagraminstagram iconpinterestpinterest iconfacebookfacebook iconprintprint iconsquaressquares iconheartheart iconheart solidheart solid icon

Ground Beef Gnocchi in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

3.8 from 13 reviews

This Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe combines tender gnocchi with a rich and creamy tomato sauce loaded with savory ground beef, onion, garlic, and Italian herbs. Perfect for a comforting weeknight dinner, this dish comes together quickly in one skillet, delivering hearty flavors and a satisfying texture in just 25 minutes.

  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

  • 1 pound lean ground beef
  • 1/2 medium onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 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
  • 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
  • 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
  • Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Brown the beef and onion: In a skillet over medium-high heat, cook the lean ground beef with chopped onion for 7-10 minutes until the beef is thoroughly browned and the onion is softened. Drain excess fat if necessary by spooning it out to avoid a greasy dish.
  2. Add garlic and seasoning: Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning into the beef mixture and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant, enhancing the dish’s aromatic flavor.
  3. Combine liquids and gnocchi: Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juices, chicken or beef broth, and heavy cream. Add the uncooked potato gnocchi to the pan, then stir everything together to combine well.
  4. Simmer covered: Once the sauce begins to bubble, cover the pan and reduce heat to medium. Let it cook for 5 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to cook through and the sauce to begin thickening.
  5. Finish cooking uncovered: Remove the lid, stir gently, and continue to cook another few minutes until the gnocchi is soft and tender, and the sauce has thickened to your desired consistency.
  6. Add cheese and season: Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, then taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed. Serve the dish immediately while hot for best flavor and texture.

Notes

  • Be sure to cook the gnocchi until just tender to avoid mushiness.
  • If the sauce is too thick, add a splash more broth to loosen it slightly.
  • Substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter sauce, though it will be less rich.
  • Use chicken broth for a lighter flavor or beef broth for a deeper taste.
  • Leftovers reheat well in a skillet with a splash of broth or cream to prevent drying out.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian-American