Name: Easy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 cup diced onion (about 1/2 medium onion); 1 cup shredded carrot (about 1 medium carrot); 1 cup diced celery (about 2 medium celery sticks); 1 pound lean ground beef; 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning; ½ teaspoon dried garlic powder; Salt & pepper to taste (approximately ¾ teaspoon salt and a few pinches of pepper); 1 (15-oz) can tomato sauce; 1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes (not drained); 2 (16-oz) packages gnocchi; ½ cup grated parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese

Jump to Recipe· 4.1 from 6 reviews

If you are craving a comforting, hearty, and utterly delicious meal that comes together with ease, this Easy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake Recipe is exactly what you need. Imagine tender gnocchi bathed in a rich, savory Bolognese sauce loaded with aromatics and veggies, all topped with a golden blanket of melted cheeses. It’s the kind of recipe that feels special but is simple enough for a weeknight dinner, making it a new staple you’ll want to keep in your regular rotation.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows a pot with three main layers inside. At the bottom, there is a mix of chopped yellow-orange carrots, chopped light green celery, and some white onion pieces, all with a soft cooked texture. Above this, there is a mound of raw ground red meat placed to one side of the pot. On top of the vegetable mix and next to the meat, there is a small pile of mixed dried herbs and some coarse white salt. A wooden spoon with a smooth, light texture rests inside the pot, reaching towards the center of the ingredients. The pot is made of shiny metal, and it sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients come together to create a symphony of flavors and textures in the dish. Each adds a vital touch — from the sweetness of the carrot to the creaminess of the cheeses, it all plays a part in making this bake so irresistible.

1 tablespoon olive oil: This is your sauté base that helps soften the vegetables and build flavor.
1 cup diced onion (about 1/2 medium onion): Adds a gentle sweetness and depth to the sauce.
1 cup shredded carrot (about 1 medium carrot): Brings a subtle natural sweetness and bright color.
1 cup diced celery (about 2 medium celery sticks): Offers an earthy crunch and balances the sauce.
1 pound lean ground beef: The hearty protein that makes this bake satisfying and full-bodied.
1 tablespoon Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that infuses the sauce with classic Italian flavor.
½ teaspoon dried garlic powder: Adds a mellow garlic punch without the hassle of fresh garlic.
Salt & pepper (to taste; about ¾ teaspoon salt and a few pinches of pepper): Essential seasonings to elevate every ingredient’s natural flavor.
1 (15-oz) can tomato sauce: Creates a smooth, rich base for the Bolognese.
1 (15-oz) can diced tomatoes (NOT drained): Adds texture and bursts of freshness throughout the sauce.
2 (16-oz) packages gnocchi: Pillowy soft potato dumplings that soak up all the saucy goodness.
½ cup grated parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for a salty, nutty flavor that crisps up beautifully.
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese: Melts over the whole dish, creating a luscious, gooey topping that pulls apart with every bite.

How to Make Easy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake Recipe

Step 1: Prepare Your Oven and Dish

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F and lightly greasing a 9×13 inch casserole dish. This ensures your delicious bake will cook evenly and come out effortlessly when it’s time to serve.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the diced onion, shredded carrot, and diced celery. Cook them together for 4-5 minutes until they’re soft and fragrant. This combo forms a flavorful foundation that makes the sauce rich and hearty.

Step 3: Cook the Ground Beef

Next, add the lean ground beef along with the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir frequently, breaking up the beef into small, crumbly pieces. Cook until the beef turns evenly browned. This step layers in the meaty, savory depth that defines a great Bolognese.

Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Gnocchi

Turn off the heat and stir in the tomato sauce, canned diced tomatoes (including their juices), and both packages of gnocchi right into the skillet. Mix everything thoroughly so the gnocchi are nestled in the rich sauce, soaking up all that wonderful flavor.

Step 5: Assemble and Bake

Transfer the saucy gnocchi mixture into your prepared casserole dish. Evenly sprinkle the grated parmesan over the top, then cover it with shredded mozzarella. Pop it into the oven and bake for 25-30 minutes until the sauce is bubbly and the cheese has melted to a glorious golden brown. Let it rest for 5 minutes before digging in.

How to Serve Easy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake Recipe

A close-up view of a white ceramic dish filled with baked gnocchi in rich red tomato sauce mixed with browned ground meat, topped with a thick, melted layer of golden cheese that shows slightly browned spots and oil. Fresh green basil pieces are scattered over the cheese for color. A light wooden spoon is partially submerged, scooping some gnocchi and sauce from the right side, showing the chunky texture of the dish. The sides of the dish have browned baked marks, adding to the rustic look. The background surface features a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

To elevate every bite, fresh basil or chopped parsley scattered on top adds a punch of color and a light herbaceous contrast to the rich cheese and tomato sauce. A drizzle of high-quality extra virgin olive oil also brings a silky finish and enhances the flavors.

Side Dishes

This dish is so satisfying on its own, but pairing it with a crisp green salad or garlic roasted broccoli balances the richness perfectly. A side of crusty bread is also wonderful for sopping up those delicious sauce remnants.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve individual portions in small ramekins to make it feel gourmet and more personalized. You can also sprinkle a little extra parmesan and mozzarella before a quick broil for an irresistibly golden, crispy top layer that adds a delightful texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

The leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld, making it just as tasty the next day, or even better if you ask me!

Freezing

This bake freezes beautifully. Just cool it completely, wrap tightly or transfer to a freezer-safe container, and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat for a perfect quick meal.

Reheating

To reheat, cover the dish with foil and warm in a 350°F oven for about 20 minutes until heated through. You can also reheat individual portions in the microwave, adding a splash of water to keep the gnocchi tender.

FAQs

Can I use a different type of meat in the Easy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake Recipe?

Absolutely! Ground turkey or chicken work well as leaner alternatives, and even a blend with pork can add richness if you prefer.

Do I have to use canned tomatoes, or can I use fresh?

Canned tomatoes are convenient and consistently flavorful, but you can use fresh diced tomatoes if they’re in season. Just make sure they are ripe and juicy for the best sauce consistency.

Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Just swap out regular gnocchi for gluten-free gnocchi available at most grocery stores. Ensure your tomato sauce and seasonings don’t contain hidden gluten.

How spicy is this dish? Can I adjust the heat?

This recipe is mild and family-friendly. If you like a little kick, feel free to add red pepper flakes when cooking the beef for a subtle heat.

Can I prepare this dish vegetarian?

Definitely. Replace the ground beef with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or a plant-based ground meat substitute to keep it hearty and flavorful.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser that combines simplicity with comforting, layered flavors. Whether you’re cooking for your family or hosting friends, this recipe delivers warmth, satisfaction, and smiles with every bite. I can’t wait for you to make it your own and enjoy this cozy, cheesy delight as much as I do!