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Authentic Classic Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe

Indulge in a Taste of Italy: Try Our Classic Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe with a Secret Ingredient!

This Classic Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe will transport your taste buds to the streets of Italy. The secret ingredient will leave you curious and wanting more.

Gnocchi Bolognese is a classic Italian dish with a long history of tradition and culinary excellence. The tasty combination of soft, pillowy gnocchi and hearty beef Bolognese sauce is a match made in heaven that has been savored by food lovers for generations.

The origins of gnocchi can be traced back to ancient Rome, where it was made using a variety of grains, depending on the availability of ingredients. Over time, the dish evolved and took on its modern form, which is made with potatoes and flour. The soft texture of gnocchi makes it the perfect vessel to soak up savory sauces like Bolognese.

Bolognese sauce, which originated in the city of Bologna, is a slow-cooked meat-based sauce that is rich in flavor and texture. It is traditionally made using a combination of ground beef and pork, along with aromatic vegetables, tomatoes, and herbs. The addition of red wine and beef broth gives the sauce a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the tender gnocchi.

To prepare this delicious dish, start by boiling a large pot of salted water for the gnocchi. While the water is heating up, prepare the Bolognese sauce by cooking the ground beef and onion until browned. The addition of garlic, red pepper flakes, dried basil, and oregano adds a bold flavor to the sauce, while the red wine and beef broth create a rich, savory base.

Simmer the sauce until it thickens, then add the cooked gnocchi and stir well to coat it with the sauce. Top with grated Parmesan cheese and serve hot. This dish is perfect for a cozy night in with family and friends, and it is sure to become a crowd-pleaser at any dinner party.

Ask the Chef: Pro Tips for making Gnocchi Bolognese

Make Sure Your Pan is Big Enough

The beef, onions, and garlic will produce a significant amount of liquid as they cook in the skillet, so it’s important to use a large enough skillet to avoid overcrowding. This will ensure that the beef browns evenly, and the vegetables cook through to release as much flavor as possible.

Don’t Overcook the Beef

While well-browned beef is essential for deep flavor, be cautious not to overcook it. Overcooked beef can become tough and chewy.

Red Wine is Key

The red wine in this recipe adds a ton of richness and depth to the sauce. Use a dry red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot for best results. If you don’t want to use wine, you can substitute it with beef broth or water.

Stir Continuously

Constant stirring will ensure the ingredients combine properly, preventing the sauce from sticking to the bottom of the skillet and burning.

Adjust Seasoning to Your Preference

The recipe calls for specific amounts of seasoning, but feel free to adjust them to your liking. If you want a spicier sauce, add more red pepper flakes, and if you prefer a sweeter sauce, add more brown sugar.

Use Fresh Gnocchi

Fresh or homemade gnocchi will provide the best taste and texture. If you can’t find fresh gnocchi in your local grocery store, you can substitute with store-bought gnocchi.

Serve Immediately

Gnocchi can become mushy and soggy when overcooked, so it’s essential to serve the dish immediately after mixing the gnocchi with the sauce.

Leftover Gnocchi can be Stored Properly

Any leftover gnocchi with sauce can be stored in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or sauté it in a skillet with a bit of olive oil.

How Many Calories are in Gnocchi Bolognese?

Nutrition Facts

6 Servings per Recipe

Calories: 510

  • Total Fat: 18g
    • Saturated Fat: 6g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 8g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Cholesterol: 68mg
  • Sodium: 1132mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 55g
    • Dietary Fiber: 6g
    • Total Sugars: 10g
    • Added Sugars: 3g
  • Protein: 27g

What Drinks Pair Best with Gnocchi Bolognese?

Wine pairing: A Chianti Classico or a Sangiovese would pair well with the rich Bolognese sauce in this Classic Gnocchi Bolognese recipe.

Beer pairing: A hearty and robust beer, such as a Belgian Dubbel or English Brown Ale, would pair well with this Classic Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe. The rich maltiness of these styles balances well with the savory beef and tomato flavors in the dish.

Cocktail pairing: A bold and hearty red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Merlot, would pair well with this classic gnocchi bolognese recipe.

How to Make Gnocchi Bolognese

How to make Gnocchi Bolognese

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Ingredients

  • 1 lb Gnocchi
  • 1 lb Ground Beef
  • 1/2 Onion, chopped
  • 2 Garlic Cloves, minced
  • 1/2 Cup Red Wine
  • 1/2 Cup Beef Broth
  • 28 oz Crushed Tomatoes
  • 2 Tbsp Tomato Paste
  • 2 Tbsp Olive Oil
  • 1 Tbsp Brown Sugar
  • 1 Tsp Salt
  • 1/2 Tsp Black Pepper
  • 1/4 Tsp Red Pepper Flakes
  • 1/4 Tsp Dried Basil
  • 1/4 Tsp Dried Oregano

Instructions

  1. Boil a large pot of salted water for the gnocchi.
  2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
  3. Add the ground beef and cook until browned and no longer pink.
  4. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, red pepper flakes, dried basil, and dried oregano. Cook until onions are translucent, about 5 minutes.
  5. Add the red wine and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the liquid reduces by half.
  6. Add the beef broth, crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, brown sugar, and stir well.
  7. Decrease heat and simmer uncovered for about 10 minutes or until sauce thickens.
  8. Cook the gnocchi according to package directions. Drain and set aside.
  9. Once the sauce is thick, add in cooked gnocchi to the skillet and stir well to coat with the sauce.
  10. Serve hot with some grated Parmesan cheese on top and enjoy!

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