Are you craving a hearty, delicious meal that's surprisingly easy to make? Look no further! This Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe is the perfect blend of comfort food and quick weeknight dinner. Forget takeout – this homemade dish is packed with flavor and will leave you feeling satisfied without spending hours in the kitchen. It's one of those best recipes that even beginner cooks can master, making it a perfect addition to your healthy meals repertoire.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb ground beef
- 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 lb gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
Step 1: Brown the Beef
In a large skillet over medium-high heat, brown the ground beef, breaking it up with a spoon. Drain off any excess grease.
Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
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. This step adds depth of flavour to your delicious dish.
Step 3: Simmer the Sauce
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, oregano, basil, red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for at least 15 minutes, or longer for a richer flavor. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors meld together.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
While the sauce simmers, cook the gnocchi according to package directions. Usually, this involves boiling them until they float to the surface. Drain well.
Step 5: Combine and Serve
Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet with the meat sauce. Toss gently to coat. Stir in the Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, garnished with fresh basil leaves, if desired.
Tips and Variations:
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or a dash of your favorite hot sauce for extra heat.
- Add vegetables: Enhance the nutritional value and flavor by adding chopped bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sauce while it simmers.
- Make it creamy: Stir in a dollop of ricotta cheese or cream cheese at the end for a richer, creamier sauce.
- Use different herbs: Experiment with other herbs like thyme or rosemary for a unique flavor profile.
- Homemade gnocchi: While store-bought gnocchi is convenient, making your own is a rewarding experience and adds a special touch to this easy recipe.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 450-500
- Protein: 25-30g
- Fat: 20-25g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
This Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe is a fantastic example of quick dinner ideas that don’t compromise on taste or satisfaction. It’s a simple, yet elegant dish perfect for a family meal or a cozy night in. This recipe combines the ease of food recipes with the deliciousness of homemade cooking, making it a staple in your collection of healthy meals. Enjoy!