Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe

If you love rich, slow-simmered Bolognese sauce paired with pillowy soft gnocchi, this Gnocchi Bolognese recipe is a must-try. This dish combines classic Italian flavors with a hearty, satisfying texture that makes it the perfect comfort food for any night of the week. Whether you’re cooking for family or simply craving a cozy meal, this dish is guaranteed to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Comforting Dish

• Hearty and Comforting . A rich, meaty sauce paired with tender gnocchi makes this a warm and satisfying meal.
• Easy to Make . While traditional Bolognese sauce takes hours, this version delivers deep flavor in under an hour.
• Restaurant-Quality . This homemade sauce tastes just like an authentic Italian trattoria dish.
• Customizable . You can adjust the ingredients to fit your taste—use beef, pork, turkey, or even a vegetarian alternative.

With a slow-simmered meat sauce, fluffy gnocchi, and plenty of Parmesan cheese, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.

What Does Gnocchi Bolognese Taste Like?

Gnocchi Bolognese is a delicious Italian dish featuring potato gnocchi tossed in a rich, meaty tomato sauce. The sauce is slow-cooked to perfection with ground meat, onions, garlic, tomatoes, and herbs, creating a deep, umami-packed flavor.

While Bolognese sauce is traditionally served with pasta, gnocchi makes for a heartier and more indulgent alternative, soaking up the sauce beautifully.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Ground Beef or Pork - The main protein in the sauce, adding a hearty, meaty depth. Pork provides extra richness, while beef offers a robust, savory flavor. Turkey can be used as a leaner alternative.
• Olive Oil - Used to sauté the aromatics and brown the meat, enhancing the overall richness of the sauce.
• Onion & Garlic - The base of the sauce, bringing layers of sweet, savory, and umami notes to build flavor.
• Carrots & Celery - Traditional in Bolognese sauce, these vegetables add a touch of natural sweetness and balance the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Tomato Paste - Intensifies the tomato flavor, giving the sauce a deep, concentrated richness.
• Crushed Tomatoes - The main component of the sauce, providing a thick, hearty texture and tangy sweetness.
• Beef or Chicken Broth - Enhances the sauce with depth and umami, making it even more flavorful.
• Red Wine (Optional) - Adds complexity and boldness to the sauce, intensifying the meaty flavors.
• Italian Seasoning - A blend of oregano, basil, and thyme, essential for giving the sauce its signature Italian aroma.
• Salt & Black Pepper - Necessary seasonings to balance and enhance all the flavors in the sauce.
• Heavy Cream or Milk (Optional) - A finishing touch that creates a smooth, velvety texture and slightly softens the acidity of the tomatoes.
• Potato Gnocchi - These soft, pillowy dumplings are the perfect vessel for the rich, meaty sauce, soaking up all the flavors beautifully.
• Parmesan Cheese - Adds a sharp, nutty finish to the dish, elevating the umami flavors.
• Fresh Basil or Parsley - Provides a fresh, herbaceous contrast that balances the richness of the sauce.

This combination of ingredients results in a hearty, comforting dish with deep, slow-cooked flavors that make Gnocchi Bolognese a true Italian classic!

How To Make Gnocchi Bolognese

1. Prepare the Bolognese Sauce . Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the tomato paste, stirring well to coat the meat and veggies. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, broth, and red wine (if using). Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
2. Cook the Gnocchi . Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Drain the gnocchi and set aside.
3. Assemble the Dish . Stir the cooked gnocchi into the Bolognese sauce. Toss gently to coat the gnocchi in the sauce. Add a splash of heavy cream or milk (optional) for extra richness. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
4. Serve and Enjoy . Plate the gnocchi Bolognese and serve hot with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Tips And Tricks

Making Gnocchi Bolognese is a rewarding process, but a few expert tips can take it to the next level. Here’s how to achieve the best results:

• Use Fresh Gnocchi for Best Texture . Homemade or store-bought fresh gnocchi cooks faster and absorbs sauce better than shelf-stable varieties.
• Simmer the Sauce Longer for Deeper Flavor . While 30-40 minutes works well, simmering for an hour or more enhances the richness.
• Add a Splash of Cream for a Velvety Finish . A bit of heavy cream or whole milk makes the sauce extra luxurious.
• Use a Mix of Meats . A blend of beef and pork adds more depth and authenticity.
• Deglaze with Wine . Adding red wine enhances the umami flavors in the sauce.

Variations

Gnocchi Bolognese is a comforting and versatile dish that can be customized to suit different tastes and dietary preferences. Here are some delicious variations to try:

• Spicy - Add crushed red pepper flakes for a spicy kick.
• Vegetarian Version - Swap the meat for mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based ground “meat”.
• Extra Creamy Sauce - Stir in mascarpone, ricotta, or heavy cream before serving.
• Pesto Twist - Add a spoonful of pesto for extra herbaceous flavor.
• Gluten-Free - Use gluten-free gnocchi and double-check that your broth and tomato paste are gluten-free.

What To Eat With Gnocchi Bolognese

Gnocchi Bolognese is a rich and hearty dish that pairs well with a variety of sides that complement its bold flavors. Here are some delicious options to serve alongside your meal:

• Garlic Bread - A must-have for scooping up extra sauce.
• Caesar Salad - A crisp, refreshing contrast to the rich flavors.
• Roasted Vegetables - Such as zucchini, asparagus, or bell peppers.
• Red Wine - A glass of Chianti, Sangiovese, or Merlot enhances the meal.

How Long Does It Last?

Gnocchi Bolognese can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days in an airtight container.

Since gnocchi is a delicate pasta, it can become softer over time as it absorbs the sauce, so it is best enjoyed fresh or within the first couple of days.

Can You Freeze It?

If you plan to store leftovers for longer, consider keeping the gnocchi and Bolognese sauce separate to maintain the best texture. For longer storage, you can freeze Gnocchi Bolognese for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container.

When reheating, it’s best to thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before warming it on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream to restore its consistency.

More Comforting Creations

• Chicken Pot Pie Casserole
• Slow Cooker Beef Stroganoff
• Crock Pot Chicken and Noodles
• Mashed Potato Casserole
• Instant Pot Butter Chicken

Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe | Hearty And Delicious Gnocchi Dish

Ingredients

• ▢ 1 pound Ground Beef
• ▢ 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• ▢ 1 Onion , chopped
• ▢ 2 cloves Garlic , minced
• ▢ 1 Carrot , diced
• ▢ 1 stalk Celery , diced
• ▢ 15 ounces Crushed Tomatoes
• ▢ 1/2 cup Beef Broth
• ▢ 1/2 cup Red Wine , optional
• ▢ 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
• ▢ 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
• ▢ 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
• ▢ 2 tbsp Heavy Cream
• ▢ 16 ounces Potato Gnocchi
• ▢ 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese

Instructions

• Prepare the Bolognese Sauce . Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the tomato paste, stirring well to coat the meat and veggies. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, broth, and red wine (if using). Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Cook the Gnocchi . Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Drain the gnocchi and set aside.
• Assemble the Dish . Stir the cooked gnocchi into the Bolognese sauce. Toss gently to coat the gnocchi in the sauce. Add a splash of heavy cream or milk (optional) for extra richness. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
• Serve and Enjoy . Plate the gnocchi Bolognese and serve hot with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.

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Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe | Hearty And Delicious Gnocchi Dish

Ingredients

• 1 pound Ground Beef
• 2 tbsp Olive Oil
• 1 Onion chopped
• 2 cloves Garlic minced
• 1 Carrot diced
• 1 stalk Celery diced
• 15 ounces Crushed Tomatoes
• 1/2 cup Beef Broth
• 1/2 cup Red Wine optional
• 1 tsp Italian Seasoning
• 1/2 tsp Kosher Salt
• 1/4 tsp Ground Black Pepper
• 2 tbsp Heavy Cream
• 16 ounces Potato Gnocchi
• 1/4 cup Parmesan Cheese

Instructions

• Prepare the Bolognese Sauce . Heat olive oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the onion, garlic, carrots, and celery and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Stir in the ground meat and cook until browned, breaking it up as it cooks. Add the tomato paste, stirring well to coat the meat and veggies. Pour in the crushed tomatoes, broth, and red wine (if using). Season with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let the sauce simmer on low heat for 30-40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Cook the Gnocchi . Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Drain the gnocchi and set aside.
• Assemble the Dish . Stir the cooked gnocchi into the Bolognese sauce. Toss gently to coat the gnocchi in the sauce. Add a splash of heavy cream or milk (optional) for extra richness. Sprinkle with grated Parmesan and garnish with fresh basil or parsley.
• Serve and Enjoy . Plate the gnocchi Bolognese and serve hot with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs.

Gnocchi Bolognese Recipe | Hearty And Delicious Gnocchi Dish https://twosleevers.com/gnocchi-bolognese-recipe-2/

If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and nutritious soup, this Instant Pot Beef and Barley Soup is the perfect recipe. Packed with tender beef, wholesome barley, and a medley of vegetables, this soup delivers rich flavors with minimal effort. Thanks to the Instant Pot, you can enjoy a slow-simmered taste in a fraction of the time.

Why You’ll Love This Simple Soup Recipe

• Quick & Easy . The Instant Pot drastically cuts down the cooking time, making this a hassle-free meal.
• Nutrient-Packed . Loaded with protein, fiber, and essential vitamins from the beef, barley, and vegetables.
• Comforting & Satisfying . A perfect blend of rich, savory flavors that warms you up from the inside.
• Great for Meal Prep . This soup stores well and tastes even better the next day.

Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or meal prep inspiration, this one-pot dish is sure to satisfy.

What Does Beef And Barley Soup Taste Like?

Beef and Barley Soup has a rich, hearty, and deeply savory flavor with layers of warmth and comfort. The tender beef brings a meaty, umami-rich taste, while the barley adds a mild, nutty flavor with a chewy texture that absorbs the broth beautifully. The beef broth infuses the soup with a deep, meaty richness, enhanced by aromatics like onions, garlic, bay leaf, and thyme, which provide an earthy and herbaceous undertone.

The carrots and celery contribute a touch of natural sweetness, balancing out the robust flavors, while the tomato paste adds a subtle acidity that brightens the broth. Mushrooms add an extra umami depth, making the soup even more savory. The Worcestershire sauce enhances the complexity with a hint of tangy, smoky undertones.

Overall, beef and barley soup is warm, thick, and comforting, with a satisfying combination of meaty, nutty, and herby flavors, perfect for a cozy meal on a chilly day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• Beef Stew Meat - Cubed chuck roast or stew beef works best for this dish, as it becomes tender and flavorful after pressure cooking. The beef adds richness and protein, making the soup hearty and satisfying.
• Olive Oil - Used to brown the beef, which enhances the depth of flavor by creating a caramelized crust on the meat. It also helps sauté the aromatics.
• Onion - A key aromatic that forms the flavorful base of the soup. It softens and infuses the broth with natural sweetness.
• Garlic - Adds savory depth and enhances the overall umami of the dish.
• Carrots & Celery - These classic soup vegetables contribute natural sweetness, color, and texture, balancing the richness of the beef and barley.
• Mushrooms (Optional) - Elevate the umami profile, adding an earthy and meaty depth to the soup.
• Tomato Paste - Provides a slight acidity and concentrated tomato flavor, which balances the richness of the beef and broth.
• Beef Broth - The liquid base of the soup that infuses it with a deep, meaty flavor while keeping the ingredients tender and moist.
• Pearl Barley - A hearty grain that absorbs the soup’s flavors while providing a chewy, slightly nutty texture. It also naturally thickens the broth as it cooks.
• Bay Leaf & Thyme - Classic aromatic herbs that add warmth and complexity to the broth, enhancing the soup’s depth of flavor.
• Salt & Black Pepper - Essential seasonings that balance and enhance all the flavors in the dish.
• Worcestershire Sauce (Optional) - A savory, slightly tangy condiment that adds an extra layer of umami and depth, elevating the overall taste of the soup.

These ingredients come together in the Instant Pot to create a rich, comforting, and flavorful soup with a tender beef texture and a satisfying barley chew.

How To Make Beef And Barley Soup

1. Brown the Beef . Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode, add olive oil, and sear the beef until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor. Remove and set aside.
2. Sauté the Aromatics . In the same pot, add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
3. Build the Flavor Base . Stir in tomato paste, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to enhance the depth of flavor.
4. Add the Broth & Barley . Return the seared beef to the pot. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce (if using), pearl barley, and a bay leaf.
5. Pressure Cook . Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 25 minutes. Once done, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before doing a quick release.
6. Serve & Enjoy . Remove the bay leaf, stir, and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

Tips And Tricks

Beef and barley soup is a hearty, comforting dish, but getting it just right requires some technique. Follow these tips and tricks to ensure a flavorful, well-balanced soup every time:

• Use the Right Cut of Beef – Chuck roast or stew beef works best, as they become tender under pressure cooking.
• Sauté for Extra Flavor – Browning the beef and vegetables first creates a richer soup.
• Rinse the Barley – Helps remove excess starch and prevents the soup from becoming too thick.
• Add More Broth if Needed – Barley absorbs liquid, so you may need to adjust before serving.

Variations

Beef and barley soup is a comforting, hearty dish that can be customized in many ways to fit different tastes, dietary preferences, and ingredient availability. Here are some creative variations to try:

• Vegetable-Packed - Add zucchini, peas, or spinach for extra nutrients.
• Spicy Twist - Mix in a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.
• Gluten-Free Option - Swap barley with brown rice or quinoa.
• Slow Cooker Method - Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

What To Eat With Beef And Barley Soup

Beef and barley soup is a hearty and satisfying dish, but pairing it with the right sides can enhance the meal even more. Here are some delicious accompaniments to serve with this comforting soup:

• Bread - Perfect for dipping.
• Salad - A fresh contrast to the rich flavors.
• Roasted Vegetables - Adds more depth to the meal.
• Grated Parmesan - A sprinkle on top enhances the savory taste.

How Long Do They Last?

Beef and barley soup keeps well in the refrigerator for 3-4 days when stored in an airtight container. The flavors deepen over time, making it even more delicious.

Can You Freeze Them?

Yes! This soup freezes well, but since barley continues to absorb liquid, you may want to cook and freeze it separately.

If freezing, let the soup cool completely and store in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. Reheat on the stove or microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed.

More Incredible Instant Pot Recipes

• Instant Pot Butter Chicken
• Caldo de Res
• Chicken Vindaloo
• Mango Cheesecake
• Lemon Chicken Orzo Soup

Instant Pot Beef And Barley Soup Recipe | Simple Hearty Soup

Ingredients

• ▢ 1 1/2 pounds Stew Meat
• ▢ 1 tbsp Olive Oil
• ▢ 1 Onion , chopped
• ▢ 2 cloves Garlic , minced
• ▢ 2 Carrots , sliced
• ▢ 2 ribs Celery , chopped
• ▢ 1 cup Mushrooms , sliced1
• ▢ 1 tbsp Tomato Paste
• ▢ 6 cups Beef Broth
• ▢ 3/4 cup Pearl Barley , rinsed and drained
• ▢ 1 Bay Leaf
• ▢ 1 tsp Dried Thyme
• ▢ 1 tsp Kosher Salt
• ▢ 1/2 tsp Ground Black Pepper
• ▢ 1 tbsp Worcestershire Sauce

Instructions

• Brown the Beef . Set the Instant Pot to Sauté mode, add olive oil, and sear the beef until browned on all sides. This step locks in flavor. Remove and set aside.
• Sauté the Aromatics . In the same pot, add onions, garlic, carrots, celery, and mushrooms. Cook for about 3-5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
• Build the Flavor Base . Stir in tomato paste, thyme, salt, and black pepper. Let it cook for another 1-2 minutes to enhance the depth of flavor.
• Add the Broth & Barley . Return the seared beef to the pot. Pour in beef broth, Worcestershire sauce (if using), pearl barley, and a bay leaf.
• Pressure Cook . Seal the lid and set the Instant Pot to High Pressure for 25 minutes. Once done, let the pressure naturally release for 10 minutes before doing a quick release.
• Serve & Enjoy . Remove the bay leaf, stir, and adjust seasoning if needed. Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.

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Don’t forget to check out my otherBest-selling Instant Pot Cookbooks!

Indian Instant Pot , Keto Instant Pot, Instant Pot Fast and Easy , Healthy Instant Pot & Vegetarian Instant Pot .