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Bolognese Gnocchi Bake Recipe

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3.9 from 10 reviews

This easy Bolognese-inspired Gnocchi Bake is a comforting casserole that's quick to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights. Featuring sautéed vegetables, seasoned ground beef, tender gnocchi, and a cheesy topping, this hearty bake delivers classic Italian flavors in a simple, family-friendly meal.

Ingredients

Vegetables and Meat

  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 cup diced onion (about ½ medium onion)
  • 1 cup shredded carrot (about 1 medium carrot)
  • 1 cup diced celery (about 2 medium celery sticks)
  • 1 pound lean ground beef

Seasonings and Sauces

  • 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
  • ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder
  • ¾ teaspoon salt
  • a few pinches of pepper
  • 1 (15-oz) can tomato sauce
  • 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes (NOT drained)

Pasta and Cheese

  • 2 (16-oz) packages gnocchi
  • ½ cup grated parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Instructions

  1. Preheat Oven and Prepare Dish: Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and lightly grease a 9×13 inch casserole dish to prevent sticking.
  2. Sauté Vegetables: Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion, shredded carrot, and diced celery, cooking and stirring occasionally until the vegetables soften, about 4-5 minutes.
  3. Cook Ground Beef: Add the lean ground beef along with Italian seasoning, dried garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Increase heat to medium-high and cook while stirring often to break up the beef until it is browned and crumbly. Remove skillet from heat.
  4. Combine Ingredients: Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes (with juice), and both packages of gnocchi into the skillet, mixing thoroughly to combine all elements evenly.
  5. Assemble Casserole: Transfer the gnocchi and meat mixture into the prepared casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the grated parmesan cheese over the top, then layer the shredded mozzarella cheese.
  6. Bake: Bake the casserole in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes until the dish is bubbly and the cheese is melted and lightly golden.
  7. Rest and Serve: Let the casserole sit at room temperature for 5 minutes before serving to allow it to set and for easier portioning.

Notes

  • You can substitute ground turkey or chicken for ground beef for a leaner version.
  • If you prefer a spicier dish, add red pepper flakes when cooking the beef.
  • Leftovers keep well refrigerated for up to 3 days and can be reheated in the oven or microwave.
  • Use freshly grated cheese for the best melting and flavor.
  • Do not drain the diced tomatoes; their juice adds moisture and flavor to the bake.

Find it online: https://recipeplenty.com/bolognese-gnocchi-bake-recipe/