Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi

There’s something deeply comforting about a bowl of creamy, hearty pasta—especially on those evenings when the wind howls outside, and all you crave is warmth. That’s exactly how this Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi came to be in my kitchen last week. After a long day of running errands in the rain, I found myself staring into the fridge, willing inspiration to strike. A package of ground beef, a lonely potato gnocchi bag, and a splash of cream later, this cozy, soul-soothing dish was born. It’s the kind of meal that wraps you in a hug, filling your belly and your heart.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to bring this comforting dish to life:

• 1 lb ground beef – I prefer 85/15 for a good balance of flavor without too much grease.
• 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi – Store-bought works beautifully, but if you’re feeling ambitious, homemade gnocchi is divine.
• 1 small yellow onion, diced – The sweet base note of any good savory dish.
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Because garlic makes everything better.
• 1 cup heavy cream – For that luscious, velvety sauce.
• 1/2 cup beef broth – Adds depth and richness to the sauce.
• 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning – A little herbal magic.
• 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese – The salty, nutty finish we all love.
• 2 tbsp olive oil – For sautéing.
• Salt and black pepper to taste – Season as you go!
• Fresh parsley, chopped (optional) – A bright pop of color and freshness.

Let’s Get Cooking

This dish comes together in under 30 minutes—perfect for a weeknight dinner that feels anything but rushed. Here’s how to make it:

1. Brown the beef. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the ground beef, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Season with salt and pepper. Once browned (about 5-6 minutes), transfer the beef to a plate, leaving any drippings in the pan.
2. Sauté the aromatics. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and cook until soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic and Italian seasoning, letting the fragrance bloom for just 30 seconds—don’t let the garlic burn!
3. Simmer the sauce. Pour in the beef broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan (that’s flavor gold!). Let it simmer for 2 minutes, then stir in the heavy cream. Bring to a gentle simmer and let it thicken slightly.
4. Cook the gnocchi. While the sauce simmers, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions—usually just 2-3 minutes in boiling water. Drain well.
5. Bring it all together. Return the cooked beef to the skillet, stirring to coat in the creamy sauce. Gently fold in the cooked gnocchi and Parmesan cheese. Let everything warm through for a minute or two. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
6. Serve with love. Spoon into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan. A crack of black pepper on top never hurts!

Pro Tip: If your sauce feels too thick, add a splash of reserved pasta water or extra broth to loosen it up. Too thin? Let it simmer a touch longer—the Parmesan will also help thicken it.

There’s something so comforting about a bowl of creamy ground beef gnocchi—it’s the kind of meal that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight or a cozy weekend dinner, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. Below, I’ve included some pro tips, serving suggestions, and answers to common questions to help you make the most of this delicious recipe.

Pro Tips & Variations

Want to take your creamy ground beef gnocchi to the next level? Here are a few tricks and twists to try:

• Swap the protein: Ground turkey or Italian sausage work beautifully in place of beef for a different flavor profile.
• Make it veggie-packed: Stir in spinach, mushrooms, or roasted red peppers for extra color and nutrients.
• Creaminess hack: If you prefer a lighter sauce, substitute half-and-half or even whole milk for the heavy cream—just simmer a little longer to thicken.
• Cheese lovers: A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan or a dollop of ricotta before serving adds a rich, savory finish.

What to Serve With Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi

This dish is hearty enough to stand on its own, but a few simple sides can round out the meal:

• A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the richness.
• Warm, crusty garlic bread for soaking up every last bit of sauce.
• Roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts for a touch of earthiness.

Storage & Reheating Tips

Leftovers? No problem! Here’s how to keep your gnocchi tasting fresh:

• Storage: Transfer cooled leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a skillet over low heat with a splash of milk or broth to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving, as the gnocchi can become gummy.
• Freezing: While possible, the creamy sauce may separate slightly upon thawing. If freezing, reheat slowly on the stovetop and stir well.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of shelf-stable?
Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi cooks faster, so adjust the cooking time accordingly—usually just 2–3 minutes in boiling water.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, but for the best texture, prepare the sauce and cook the gnocchi separately. Combine them just before serving.

Is there a gluten-free option?
Definitely! Look for gluten-free gnocchi (often made with potato or rice flour) and ensure your other ingredients are gluten-free as well.

How can I make it spicier?
Add a pinch of red pepper flakes while cooking the beef or drizzle with chili oil before serving for a little kick.

There you have it—everything you need to make the creamiest, dreamiest ground beef gnocchi. Whether you stick to the classic recipe or put your own spin on it, this dish is guaranteed to bring warmth and satisfaction to your table. Happy cooking, and enjoy every delicious bite!