Are you craving a hearty, flavorful meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Beef and Gnocchi recipe is the perfect blend of comfort food and sophisticated taste, ready in under 30 minutes. It's a fantastic option for busy weeknights, impressing both family and friends with minimal effort. This recipe is packed with protein, making it a healthy and satisfying meal. Get ready to elevate your weeknight dinner routine with this delicious and easy recipe.
Ingredients: You'll Need These Simple Staples
- 1 pound ground beef
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 pound gnocchi (potato gnocchi recommended)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Step-by-Step Instructions: A Simple Cooking Process
Get Started:
- Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
Build the Flavor:
- Add the chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Create the Sauce:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce heat and let it simmer gently for 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.
Cook the Gnocchi:
- While the sauce simmers, cook the gnocchi according to the package directions. Usually, this involves boiling them in salted water until they float to the surface.
Combine and Serve:
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Add the cooked gnocchi to the beef sauce and gently stir to combine. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to heat through and absorb some of the delicious sauce.
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Serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves (if using).
Tips and Tricks for the Best Beef and Gnocchi
- For extra flavor: Sauté some mushrooms or bell peppers with the onions for added depth.
- Spice it up: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. A pinch of cayenne pepper also adds a nice kick.
- Add some greens: Stir in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for a boost of nutrients.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of heavy cream or crème fraîche at the end for a richer sauce.
- Vegetarian Option: Substitute the ground beef with lentils or mushrooms for a hearty vegetarian version.
Nutritional Information (Per Serving - Approximate)
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on specific ingredients used.
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Carbohydrates: 50-60g
- Fat: 15-20g
This Beef and Gnocchi recipe is a simple, delicious, and satisfying meal that's perfect for any night of the week. Enjoy this easy recipe and elevate your everyday cooking! It's a quick dinner idea that's both healthy and incredibly flavorful, perfect for homemade cooking enthusiasts of all skill levels. This recipe is sure to become one of your best recipes!