Introduction
Gnocchi with ground meat ragù and cheese is the ultimate comfort food dish that brings together hearty flavors and creamy indulgence. Imagine pillowy-soft gnocchi nestled in a rich, meaty tomato sauce, then enveloped in a blanket of melted cheese—it’s the kind of meal that makes you slow down and savor every bite. This recipe is perfect for family dinners, cozy nights in, or when you want to impress guests with minimal effort but maximum flavor.
Ingredients:
Serves 4 people
500 g (1.1 lb) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
300 g (10 oz) ground beef or mixed beef and pork
1 small onion, finely chopped
1 small carrot, grated or finely chopped
1 celery stalk, finely chopped
2 tablespoons olive oil
400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste (optional, for deeper flavor)
100 ml (about ⅓ cup) milk or heavy cream
100 g (3.5 oz) shredded mozzarella cheese
50 g (1.7 oz) grated Parmesan or Pecorino cheese
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh basil or parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions:
Prepare the ragù
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion, carrot, and celery, and sauté for 5–6 minutes until softened. Add the ground meat and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and fully cooked.
Simmer the sauce
Stir in the crushed tomatoes and tomato paste. Season with salt and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for about 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. Just before it’s done, stir in the milk or cream for a richer texture.
Cook the gnocchi
Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, usually 2–3 minutes. Drain them gently.
Combine and add cheese
Preheat your oven to 200°C (400°F). Add the cooked gnocchi to the ragù and mix well. Transfer everything into a baking dish. Sprinkle the mozzarella and grated cheese evenly on top.
Bake and serve
Bake for 10–15 minutes or until the cheese is melted and golden. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired and serve hot.
Serving and Storage Tips:
Serving: Serve straight from the oven with a side of crusty bread or a fresh green salad. A glass of red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese pairs wonderfully with this dish.
Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until hot throughout. If you’re making it in advance, assemble the dish and refrigerate it before baking—just add 5–10 extra minutes to the bake time.
Variations:
