How do you thicken Bolognese sauce for gnocchi?

To thicken Bolognese sauce without flour, let it simmer uncovered for 15–20 minutes. The liquid will reduce naturally, and the crushed tomatoes will break down into a rich, concentrated sauce. Tomato paste also adds body. If needed, mash a few gnocchi into the sauce—they act as a natural thickener thanks to their starch content.

Can you freeze gnocchi beef Bolognese for later?

Absolutely. Freeze just the sauce or the entire gnocchi beef Bolognese dish. If freezing combined, undercook the gnocchi slightly so they don’t become too soft upon reheating. Let the dish cool, store in airtight containers, and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight and reheat gently on the stove with a splash of broth or water.

Is gnocchi Bolognese gluten-free?

Traditional gnocchi contain wheat flour, so they’re not gluten-free. However, many brands now offer gluten-free options made from potato and rice or chickpea flour. The beef Bolognese sauce itself is naturally gluten-free, making this an easy swap for those with dietary needs.

Can I make this dish in one pot?

Yes—this recipe adapts well to a one-pot format. Start with a deep pan or Dutch oven to cook the aromatics, brown the beef, and simmer the sauce. Once thickened, stir in boiled gnocchi and finish with cheese and herbs. It’s an easy, hearty one-pot dinner perfect for busy nights.

Is gnocchi beef Bolognese kid-friendly?

Definitely. It’s savory, not spicy (unless you add chili flakes), and kids love the soft texture of gnocchi. You can adjust the seasonings or stir in a bit of cream for extra richness. Add veggies like grated carrot or zucchini to boost nutrition without fuss.

Gnocchi Beef Bolognese Recipe – Ultimate High Protein Comfort (2025)

Name: Gnocchi Beef Bolognese – A Hearty, High-Protein Comfort Dish
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 45 min
Total time: 50 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 medium onion, finely diced; 1 medium carrot, finely diced; 2 celery stalks, finely diced; 2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1 lb (500 g) lean ground beef; ½ cup (100 ml) dry red wine; 2 tablespoons tomato paste; 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped; 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped; ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes; 2 cans (14 oz / 400 g each) crushed tomatoes; 1 cup (250 ml) beef stock; 2 bay leaves; 1 ½ lb (900 g) gnocchi; ⅓ cup (30 g) grated Parmesan; 6–8 fresh basil leaves, roughly torn; Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Description

This gnocchi beef Bolognese is a protein-packed comfort meal made with lean beef, herbs, and a slow-simmered tomato sauce. Quick, hearty, and freezer-friendly.

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, finely diced
1 medium carrot, finely diced
2 celery stalks, finely diced
2 large garlic cloves, finely chopped
1 lb (500 g) lean ground beef
½ cup (100 ml) dry red wine
2 tablespoons tomato paste
1 tablespoon fresh thyme, finely chopped
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, finely chopped
¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
2 cans (14 oz / 400 g each) crushed tomatoes
1 cup (250 ml) beef stock
2 bay leaves
1 ½ lb (900 g) gnocchi
⅓ cup (30 g) grated Parmesan
6–8 fresh basil leaves, roughly torn
Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.

2. Sauté onion, carrot, and celery for 8–10 minutes until soft.

3. Add garlic and cook for 1 more minute.

4. Add ground beef and brown for 5–6 minutes, breaking it apart.

5. Pour in red wine, simmer until reduced, about 2 minutes.

6. Stir in tomato paste, thyme, rosemary, and chili flakes.

7. Add crushed tomatoes, beef stock, and bay leaves.

8. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for 15 minutes.

9. Meanwhile, cook gnocchi in salted water per package instructions.

10. Drain and stir gnocchi into the sauce with Parmesan and basil.

11. Season to taste and serve immediately with extra cheese.

Notes

For a gluten-free version, use certified gluten-free gnocchi.

You can freeze the sauce or full dish for up to 3 months.

Add extra chili flakes if you prefer a spicy kick.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 ¾ cups
Calories: 520
Sugar: 8g
Sodium: 660mg
Fat: 18g
Saturated Fat: 7g
Unsaturated Fat: 9g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 52g
Fiber: 5g
Protein: 33g
Cholesterol: 65mg