There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm bowl of creamy ground beef gnocchi—soft pillows of gnocchi simmered in a velvety tomato cream sauce with hearty ground beef and plenty of parmesan.
It’s the kind of one-skillet meal I turn to when I need dinner on the table fast but still want every bite to feel like a hug.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
All-in-one skillet – Protein, carbs, and sauce all in one pan.
Comfort food level 10 – Creamy, cheesy, and ultra-satisfying.
Weeknight magic – Ready in about 30 minutes, no boiling needed.
Short ingredient list – Pantry staples and minimal prep.
Kid-friendly – Familiar flavors and soft textures everyone loves.
What You’ll Need (Ingredient Highlights)
Ground beef – Lean, hearty, and savory—classic comfort base.
Gnocchi – Soft potato dumplings that cook right in the sauce.
Diced tomatoes – Add tang and depth to balance the cream.
Heavy cream – Makes the sauce rich and luscious.
Parmesan – Melts in for a salty, nutty finish.
Onion & garlic – Aromatics that add a strong flavor foundation.
Italian seasoning – A simple herb blend for warmth and depth.
Broth – Helps thin the sauce while adding more flavor.
Pro Tips Before You Start
Use fresh or shelf-stable gnocchi – Both work well, no need to pre-cook.
Spoon off excess grease – Keeps the sauce balanced and not too oily.
Let it simmer uncovered – Thickens the sauce and concentrates flavor.
Grate fresh parmesan – It melts better and tastes bolder than pre-shredded.
Season at the end – Parmesan adds saltiness, so taste first.
How to Make Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet
Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion
In a large skillet, cook ground beef and chopped onion over medium-high heat for 7–10 minutes.
Drain excess fat if needed.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Seasoning
Stir in minced garlic and Italian seasoning.
Cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
Add diced tomatoes with their juices, broth, cream, and uncooked gnocchi.
Stir well to combine.
Step 4: Simmer Covered
When the sauce begins to bubble, cover the pan and reduce heat to medium.
Cook for 5 minutes.
Step 5: Finish Cooking
Uncover, stir, and cook a few more minutes until the gnocchi is soft and the sauce thickens.
Step 6: Stir in Cheese and Season
Add freshly grated parmesan and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.
What to Serve It With
Garlic bread or crusty baguette
A crisp Caesar or arugula salad
Steamed broccoli or sautéed green beans
Glass of red wine or sparkling water with lemon
Roasted asparagus or zucchini on the side
Variations / Substitutions
Use ground turkey or Italian sausage – For a twist on the flavor profile.
Swap cream – Half-and-half works for a lighter version.
Make it spicy – Add crushed red pepper or use fire-roasted tomatoes.
Toss in spinach – A handful of greens wilts perfectly into the sauce.
Try cauliflower gnocchi – For a gluten-free or lower-carb version.
Storage & Leftovers
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm in a skillet over low heat or microwave gently.
Freeze: Best enjoyed fresh, but can be frozen for up to 1 month.
Refresh with cream: Add a splash of cream or broth when reheating to restore sauce.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes! Add it directly to the pan—no need to thaw or boil.
Is it okay to use half-and-half instead of cream?
Yes, it will be lighter, though slightly less rich.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
It’s best fresh, but leftovers reheat well within a few days.
What if the sauce gets too thick?
Stir in a splash of broth or cream to loosen it up.
Can I add veggies to this dish?
Absolutely—spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini would work great.
What kind of gnocchi should I use?
Any uncooked potato gnocchi—shelf-stable, fresh, or frozen—all cook directly in the sauce.
Will this work with gluten-free gnocchi?
Yes, just adjust cooking time slightly if needed.
Final Thoughts
This creamy ground beef gnocchi skillet is everything I love in a weeknight dinner—rich, hearty, and incredibly easy.
With just one pan and a handful of ingredients, it transforms into a satisfying comfort meal that feels like something you’d get at a cozy café. Definitely a repeat recipe in my kitchen.
Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- In a large skillet, brown the ground beef and chopped onion over medium-high heat for 7–10 minutes.
- Drain excess fat.
- Add garlic and Italian seasoning. Cook for 1 minute.
- Stir in diced tomatoes, broth, cream, and gnocchi. Mix well.
- Bring to a gentle bubble, cover, and reduce heat to medium. Cook for 5 minutes.
- Uncover and cook a few more minutes until gnocchi is soft and sauce thickens.
- See full steps with tips & photos → https://theboatshedcafe.com/creamy-ground-beef-gnocchi-skillet/
