Description
Cheesy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake is a comforting, rich, and hearty casserole featuring pillowy gnocchi smothered in a savory bolognese sauce and topped with melted cheese. This dish combines the best of Italian flavors and is perfect for cozy dinners or special occasions. It’s a filling and delicious way to enjoy gnocchi with the deep flavors of a traditional meat sauce.
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 lb ground beef or pork (or a mix of both)
- 1/2 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 cup whole milk
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/4 cup fresh parsley or basil, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions. Once they float to the top, remove them from the water and set them aside.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
- Add the diced onion and garlic to the skillet, cooking until the onion becomes translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Let the sauce simmer for 10-15 minutes, until it thickens. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Stir in the milk to create a creamy texture, then add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce and stir to combine.
- Transfer the gnocchi and sauce mixture to the prepared baking dish. Top with grated Parmesan and shredded mozzarella cheese.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is golden and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and let cool slightly before serving. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- If you want a creamier sauce, you can add a little heavy cream or more milk.
- Feel free to swap ground beef for ground turkey or chicken for a leaner option.
- This dish can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 480 kcal
- Sugar: 7g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 11g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 45g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 60mg