Cozy Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe Perfect for Family Dinner

Introduction

Picture this: the aroma of rich, slow-simmered Bolognese sauce fills your kitchen, mingling with the pillowy comfort of gnocchi bubbling away in the pot. It’s the kind of recipe that feels like a warm hug, the kind that makes you pause and savor each bite. Honestly, the first time I made this Cozy Gnocchi Bolognese, I knew it was something special.

This recipe was born out of one of those “what’s in my fridge” nights. I had some gnocchi tucked away, a handful of fresh veggies, and ground beef waiting to be transformed. I decided to channel my inner Italian grandma and whip up a hearty Bolognese sauce to pair with the gnocchi. Let me tell you—my family couldn’t stop sneaking bites straight from the pan. It’s now a staple at our dinner table, and I can’t wait for it to become one at yours.

Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests without breaking a sweat, this dish is simple yet luxurious. Bookmark this one, because once you try it, you’ll be making it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: Despite its rich flavor, this recipe comes together in just under an hour—perfect for busy weeknights.
• Simple Ingredients: Most of the items are pantry staples, so no need for a special grocery trip.
• Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will be asking for seconds (and thirds).
• Comforting & Delicious: The combination of tender gnocchi and flavorful Bolognese sauce is pure comfort food.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual dinner or a special gathering, this recipe fits the bill.

What sets this recipe apart is the balance between the creamy gnocchi and the bold, hearty sauce. It’s a dish that feels indulgent without being overly complicated. Plus, the flavors are so satisfying that it’s impossible not to love. Trust me—this is the kind of recipe that makes you close your eyes and smile with each bite.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This Cozy Gnocchi Bolognese recipe uses wholesome, simple ingredients to create an unforgettable flavor experience. Here’s what you’ll need:

• For the Bolognese sauce:
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 stalk celery, finely diced
• 1 pound (450g) ground beef
• 1 cup (240ml) whole milk
• 1 cup (240ml) dry red wine
• 1 can (14oz/400g) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• For the gnocchi:
• 1 package (16oz/450g) store-bought gnocchi or homemade gnocchi
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, for extra richness)
• Optional toppings:
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• Chopped parsley

Feel free to swap ground beef for ground turkey or plant-based meat for a vegetarian option. For added depth of flavor, use a good-quality red wine—it makes all the difference!

Equipment Needed



• Large skillet or saucepan
• Wooden spoon (for stirring)
• Pot for boiling gnocchi
• Grater (for the carrot and Parmesan)
• Fine mesh strainer (if needed for draining gnocchi)

If you don’t have a large skillet, a Dutch oven works wonderfully. No fancy tools required—just good, reliable kitchen basics!

Preparation Method

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 8–10 minutes.
3. Pour in the milk and stir well. Let it simmer for 5 minutes—this helps create a velvety texture.
4. Add the red wine and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to deepen.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally. (Tip: If the sauce seems too thick, add a splash of water or broth.)
6. While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions (typically 2–3 minutes). Drain and toss with butter if desired.
7. Combine the cooked gnocchi with the Bolognese sauce, stirring gently to coat evenly.
8. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley. Enjoy!

Pro tip: Taste the sauce before serving and adjust the seasoning as needed. A pinch of sugar can balance acidity if the tomatoes are too tangy.

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t rush the sauce: Giving the Bolognese time to simmer allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
• Use fresh gnocchi: If you can find fresh gnocchi, it’s worth it for the extra soft texture.
• Avoid overcooking: Gnocchi cooks quickly, so keep an eye on it to prevent it from getting mushy.
• Deglaze properly: Scrape up any browned bits from the skillet when adding the wine for extra flavor.
• Make it ahead: The Bolognese sauce can be prepared a day in advance—it tastes even better the next day!

Variations & Adaptations

• Vegetarian: Swap the ground beef for lentils or plant-based ground meat. Use vegetable stock instead of milk.
• Gluten-free: Opt for gluten-free gnocchi and double-check your crushed tomatoes for any gluten additives.
• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a kick of heat.
• Seasonal veggies: Toss in zucchini or mushrooms during the sautéing step for added texture.
• Cheesy upgrade: Stir in a handful of shredded mozzarella before serving for extra creaminess.

I’ve tried a vegetarian variation with lentils, and it’s just as hearty and delicious!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Serve this Cozy Gnocchi Bolognese hot, straight from the skillet, with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan and parsley on top. Pair it with a crisp green salad or garlic bread for the ultimate comfort meal.

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

For longer storage, freeze the Bolognese sauce for up to 3 months. Cook fresh gnocchi when ready to serve—it’s much better than freezing them together.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This recipe is packed with protein from the ground beef and milk, and the gnocchi provides satisfying carbohydrates for energy. Carrots and celery add a touch of vitamins and fiber, while the olive oil contributes heart-healthy fats.

Estimated per serving:

• Calories: 450
• Protein: 18g
• Carbs: 39g
• Fat: 20g

Feel free to adjust portions or ingredients to meet dietary needs!

Conclusion

If you’re looking for a recipe that’s comforting, crowd-pleasing, and downright delicious, this Cozy Gnocchi Bolognese is the one. It’s a family favorite in my kitchen, and I love how versatile it is—you can tweak it to suit your tastes or dietary preferences.

Give it a try and let me know how you liked it! Share your own variations in the comments—I’d love to hear how you make this recipe yours. Bookmark it now, because trust me, it’s going to be a regular in your dinner rotation.

Here’s to more cozy nights and happy tummies!

FAQs

• Can I use store-bought gnocchi? Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe, and it saves time.
• What type of wine should I use? A dry red wine like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon is ideal for the sauce.
• Can I make the sauce ahead of time? Yes, the Bolognese sauce can be made a day in advance and reheated when ready to serve.
• Can I freeze leftovers? You can freeze the Bolognese sauce for up to 3 months. Cook fresh gnocchi when ready to serve.
• How can I make this dish vegetarian? Swap the ground beef for lentils or a plant-based meat substitute, and use veggie stock instead of milk.

Cozy Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe Perfect for Family Dinner

Print Recipe

A comforting and hearty dish featuring tender gnocchi paired with a rich, slow-simmered Bolognese sauce. Perfect for cozy family dinners or impressing guests.

• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 40 minutes
• Total Time: 55 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium carrot, grated
• 1 stalk celery, finely diced
• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 cup whole milk
• 1 cup dry red wine
• 1 can (14oz) crushed tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 package (16oz) store-bought gnocchi or homemade gnocchi
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional)
• Freshly grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
• Chopped parsley (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
2. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned, about 8–10 minutes.
3. Pour in the milk and stir well. Let it simmer for 5 minutes to create a velvety texture.
4. Add the red wine and cook for another 5 minutes, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to deepen.
5. Stir in the crushed tomatoes, oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Reduce the heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently for 20–25 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. While the sauce is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions (typically 2–3 minutes). Drain and toss with butter if desired.
7. Combine the cooked gnocchi with the Bolognese sauce, stirring gently to coat evenly.
8. Serve hot, topped with freshly grated Parmesan and chopped parsley.

Notes

For added depth of flavor, use a good-quality red wine. Taste the sauce before serving and adjust seasoning as needed. A pinch of sugar can balance acidity if the tomatoes are too tangy.

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 plate
• Calories: 450
• Fat: 20
• Carbohydrates: 39
• Protein: 18

Keywords: Gnocchi, Bolognese, Comfort Food, Family Dinner, Italian Recipe