When it comes to comfort food, few dishes can rival a warm, pillowy plate of gnocchi smothered in rich, meaty sauce. The versatility of these Italian dumplings knows no bounds, and when paired with a variety of meats and flavors, the possibilities are endless. In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through 20 flavor-packed gnocchi recipes that put a spotlight on the star of the show: meat. From classic beef and pork to spicy chorizo and venison, each dish is a masterclass in combining textures and tastes to create a truly satisfying meal.
Classic Beef and Gnocchi Casserole
This hearty casserole combines tender beef, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich tomato sauce for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground beef
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup gnocchi
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet; cook until onion is translucent.
5. Stir in crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
6. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked gnocchi, followed by half of the tomato sauce mixture.
7. Repeat layers, ending with a layer of tomato sauce on top.
8. Sprinkle mozzarella and Parmesan cheese over the top; season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Skillet
A hearty, one-pot meal that combines the flavors of spicy Italian sausage with soft gnocchi and crispy vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Italian sausage, casings removed
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add gnocchi, bell pepper, crushed tomatoes, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Transfer skillet to the oven and bake at 400°F (200°C) for 15-20 minutes or until the vegetables are tender and the sausage is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Creamy Chicken and Gnocchi Soup
Warm up with this comforting and creamy soup that combines tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 cup whole milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 12 ounces store-bought or homemade gnocchi
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the chopped onion and minced garlic in a little bit of oil until softened.
2. Add the diced potatoes and cook for an additional 5 minutes.
3. Add the chicken to the pot and cook until browned on all sides.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the top and whisk to combine.
5. Gradually add the milk, heavy cream, and thyme, whisking constantly.
6. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let cook for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
7. Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook for an additional 3-5 minutes or until they float to the surface.
8. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Ground Turkey Gnocchi Bolognese
A hearty, comforting twist on the classic Italian dish, this recipe combines tender ground turkey with soft gnocchi and rich bolognese sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup milk
– 1 egg
– 1 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground turkey, onion, garlic, milk, egg, flour, salt, and pepper. Mix until just combined.
3. Roll out the mixture into a long rope and cut into 1-inch pieces.
4. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook gnocchi for 5-7 minutes or until they float to the surface.
5. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add crushed tomatoes and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Combine cooked gnocchi and bolognese sauce. Stir in Parmesan cheese. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pork and Gnocchi Stir-Fry
A flavorful and quick stir-fry dish that combines the tender taste of pork with the softness of gnocchi, all wrapped up in a savory sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound ground pork
– 8 oz. potato gnocchi
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, thinly sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
3. Add pork, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks, until browned, about 5 minutes.
4. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes.
5. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
6. Combine cooked gnocchi with the pork mixture and stir-fry for 1-2 minutes to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Gnocchi Bake
Transform classic comfort food into a new level of indulgence with this BBQ Pulled Pork Gnocchi Bake. Tender gnocchi, smoky pulled pork, and creamy sauce come together in a hearty, satisfying casserole perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 2 cups shredded pulled pork (cooked in your favorite BBQ sauce)
– 1 cup cream cheese, softened
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine pulled pork, cream cheese, milk, and parsley. Stir until smooth and heated through.
4. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, arrange half of the cooked gnocchi in an even layer.
5. Pour the BBQ pulsed pork mixture over the gnocchi.
6. Top with remaining gnocchi, followed by shredded cheddar cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Beef Stroganoff with Gnocchi
A classic comfort food dish gets a creative twist by substituting traditional egg noodles with soft and pillowy gnocchi.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup gnocchi
– 1 cup beef broth
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions; set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the beef strips over medium-high heat until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. Add mushrooms and onion to the skillet; sauté until the vegetables are softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Add garlic, beef broth, heavy cream, mustard, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet; stir to combine.
5. Return the cooked gnocchi to the skillet; toss with the sauce until coated.
6. Add the cooked beef strips back into the skillet; simmer for 2-3 minutes to heat through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Lamb and Gnocchi Stew
A hearty and flavorful stew that combines the tender lamb with pillowy gnocchi, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless lamb shoulder, cut into 2-inch pieces
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 cup red wine
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 8-10 gnocchi
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add lamb and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Remove lamb from pot and set aside. Reduce heat to medium and add onion, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook until onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add broth, wine, and tomato paste. Stir to combine.
4. Return lamb to pot and bring to a simmer.
5. Add gnocchi and cook for an additional 10-12 minutes or until they float to the surface.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: About 30-40 minutes
Garlic Butter Shrimp and Gnocchi
Savor the combination of succulent shrimp and pillowy gnocchi smothered in a rich garlic butter sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 pound gnocchi
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Reserve.
2. In a large skillet, melt 1 tablespoon butter over medium-high heat. Add garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until pink and cooked through.
4. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to low.
5. If using white wine, add it to the skillet and simmer for 1 minute. Stir in remaining 1 tablespoon butter until melted.
6. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing to combine with garlic butter sauce.
7. Return shrimp to the skillet and toss to coat with sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Parmesan Gnocchi Casserole
A rich and satisfying twist on traditional chicken parmesan, this casserole combines the comforting flavors of gnocchi, marinara sauce, and melted mozzarella cheese with crispy breadcrumbs and juicy chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 package gnocchi
– 2 cups marinara sauce
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook chicken in olive oil until browned and cooked through. Add marinara sauce and stir to combine.
4. In a separate bowl, combine mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
5. In a 9×13-inch baking dish, create a layer of gnocchi, followed by a layer of chicken mixture, then a sprinkle of cheese. Repeat for two more layers, finishing with a layer of cheese on top.
6. Sprinkle breadcrumbs over the cheese layer.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Chorizo and Gnocchi Tacos
Experience the bold flavors of Spain and Italy combined in this unique taco recipe, featuring spicy chorizo sausage and pillowy gnocchi.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 cup cooked gnocchi
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded Monterey Jack cheese (optional)
– Chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced chorizo and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Remove chorizo from the skillet with a slotted spoon; set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
5. Add cooked gnocchi to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
6. Return chorizo to the skillet and stir to combine with the gnocchi mixture.
7. Season with cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
8. Warm tortillas according to package instructions.
9. Assemble tacos by spooning the chorizo-gnocchi mixture onto a warmed tortilla, followed by shredded cheese and chopped cilantro (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Meatball and Gnocchi Skillet
A hearty one-pot meal that combines tender meatballs with pillowy gnocchi, all cooked to perfection in a rich tomato sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 tsp dried basil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
– 8-10 gnocchi pieces
– Olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine ground beef, breadcrumbs, egg, Parmesan cheese, basil, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Form into meatballs and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the crushed tomatoes and bring to a simmer.
5. Add the baked meatballs to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions, then add to the skillet with the tomato sauce and meatballs. Toss to coat.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Beef and Gnocchi Shepherd’s Pie
A hearty, comforting twist on the classic shepherd’s pie, this recipe combines tender beef with soft gnocchi and creamy mashed potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb ground beef
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen gnocchi
– 1 cup beef broth
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 2 cups mashed potatoes
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a large skillet, cook ground beef over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Add onion, garlic, beef broth, tomato paste, and thyme to the skillet. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked gnocchi and season with salt and pepper.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish.
7. Top with mashed potatoes and sprinkle with cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until potatoes are golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Bacon-Wrapped Gnocchi with Chicken
Savor the rich flavors of crispy bacon and soft gnocchi, paired with tender chicken in this indulgent yet easy-to-make dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound fresh or frozen gnocchi
– 6 slices of thick-cut bacon
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions or until they float to the surface.
3. Wrap each piece of chicken with a slice of bacon, securing with a toothpick if needed.
4. Bake chicken and bacon bundles for 15-18 minutes or until cooked through.
5. In a separate pan, sauté garlic and marinara sauce over medium heat.
6. Add cooked gnocchi to the sauce and toss to combine.
7. Serve chicken and bacon bundles on top of gnocchi mixture, sprinkled with Parmesan cheese.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Ham and Gnocchi Carbonara
A creamy, indulgent take on the classic Italian dish, this Ham and Gnocchi Carbonara combines tender gnocchi with crispy ham and a rich egg sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked gnocchi
– 4 oz diced ham (such as prosciutto or pancetta)
– 2 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and black pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, cook the diced ham over medium heat until crispy.
3. Crack the eggs into a bowl and whisk together with a fork. Add the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper.
4. Add the cooked gnocchi to the egg mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Add the cooked ham to the gnocchi mixture and stir until coated.
6. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly, until the eggs are cooked through and the sauce is creamy (about 3-4 minutes).
7. Serve immediately, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Turkey and Gnocchi Stuffed Peppers
A hearty and flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines tender turkey, creamy gnocchi, and sweet bell peppers for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 pound ground turkey
– 1 cup cooked gnocchi
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup marinara sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large skillet, cook turkey and onion over medium-high heat until browned, breaking up with spoon as needed.
4. Add garlic, gnocchi, and marinara sauce to the skillet. Simmer for 2-3 minutes.
5. Stuff each pepper with the turkey-gnocchi mixture and top with mozzarella cheese.
6. Cover baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Venison and Gnocchi Ragout
A hearty, comforting dish that combines the rich flavor of venison with the pillowy texture of gnocchi.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound venison steaks (such as deer or elk), cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button)
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup red wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 pound homemade or store-bought gnocchi
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add venison and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
2. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms; cook until they release their liquid and start to brown, about 8 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth, red wine (if using), tomato paste, thyme, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return venison to the pan; simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the meat is tender.
6. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Add to the ragout and stir to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Pepperoni Pizza Gnocchi Bake
Pepperoni Pizza Gnocchi Bake: A Twist on Classic Comfort Food!
Combine the comfort of gnocchi with the flavors of pepperoni pizza for a delightful twist on traditional pasta bakes.
Ingredients:
– 1 (16 oz) package of gnocchi
– 1 jar of pizza sauce
– 1 cup of shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/4 cup of chopped fresh parsley
– 6 slices of pepperoni
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, combine pizza sauce and shredded mozzarella cheese. Bring to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Add cooked gnocchi, pepperoni slices, and Parmesan cheese to the skillet. Toss until well combined.
5. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle with parsley and season with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Enjoy your delicious Pepperoni Pizza Gnocchi Bake!
Grilled Steak and Gnocchi Salad
A classic combination of tender grilled steak and fluffy gnocchi, tossed with fresh greens and a tangy vinaigrette.
Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs flank steak
– 1 package of gnocchi (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Season steak with salt and pepper.
2. Grill steak for 5-6 minutes per side, or until desired level of doneness.
3. Meanwhile, cook gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and crumbled feta cheese.
5. Slice grilled steak against the grain into thin strips.
6. Add cooked gnocchi, sliced steak, and olive oil to the salad bowl. Toss gently to combine.
7. Drizzle with balsamic vinegar and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herbed Chicken and Gnocchi Casserole
A comforting and flavorful casserole that combines tender chicken, soft gnocchi, and a rich herby sauce, perfect for a cozy dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed herbs (thyme, rosemary, parsley)
– 1 cup gnocchi
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook gnocchi according to package instructions; set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken, cook until browned; remove from skillet.
4. In the same skillet, add garlic and onion; cook until softened.
5. Stir in mixed herbs, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
6. In a separate bowl, combine cooked gnocchi, chicken, and herb mixture.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and top with cheddar cheese.
8. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the casserole is golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
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