Mozzarella Baked Gnocchi Bolognese

Indulge in the comforting flavors of Italy with this hearty and flavorful dish, Mozzarella Baked Gnocchi Bolognese. Tender potato gnocchi pairs perfectly with a rich and savory bolognese sauce, loaded with ground beef, bacon, mushrooms, and aromatic herbs and spices. Topped with gooey melted mozzarella cheese, every bite of this baked dish is a symphony of textures and tastes.

Follow along with these simple instructions to create a comforting meal that will satisfy any craving for classic Italian flavors. Whether you’re cooking for a cozy family dinner or entertaining guests, this Mozzarella Baked Gnocchi Bolognese is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.

Mozzarella Baked Gnocchi Bolognese

Ingredients:

1 Kg/2.2lb Potato Gnocchi

350g/12oz Ground Beef

600g/1.3lb Sliced Mushrooms

200g/7oz Streaky Bacon chopped

2 (400g/14oz) Tins Diced Tomatoes

1 Small Tin (200g/7oz) Diced Tomatoes

1 Onion diced

4 Garlic Cloves crushed

2 Teaspoons Worcestershire Sauce

2 Teaspoons Balsamic Vinegar

1 Tbls Tomato Paste

1/2 Teaspoon Red Pepper Flakes

1/4 Cup Fresh Basil chopped

2 Teaspoons Italian Seasoning

200g/7oz Shredded Mozzarella

1/4 Cup Parmesan Cheese

Salt/pepper

Instructions:

Step 1:

Fry the bacon until slightly crispy.

Remove from pan and set aside.

Add the mushrooms, cook and remove from pan.

Add the minced beef and onions to the same pan.

When cooked add the garlic and tomato paste, stir through then add the chilli flakes, mushrooms, bacon, italian seasoning, worcestershire sauce and balsamic vinegar.

Step 2:

Stir through for about 1 minute then add the chopped tomatoes.

Bring to boil then simmer covered for 1 hour.

When the sauce is ready mix in the parmesan cheese, basil and season with salt/pepper to taste.

Step 3:

Meanwhile, add the gnocchi to boiling water.

When they come up to the surface cook for just 1 minute and drain.

Step 4:

In a large baking dish spread half of the sauce top with the gnocchi and add the remaining sauce.

Mix it all together slowly.

Top with shredded mozzarella, extra parmesan cheese, pepper and some chopped parsley.

Step 5:

Bake in oven 190C/375F for about 45 minutes.

Enjoy!

Notes:

This recipe offers a delightful twist on traditional Italian flavors by combining potato gnocchi with a rich and savory bolognese sauce.

The use of ground beef, bacon, mushrooms, onions, and garlic creates a hearty and flavorful base for the sauce, complemented by Worcestershire sauce, balsamic vinegar, and tomato paste for depth of flavor.

The addition of red pepper flakes adds a subtle kick of heat, while fresh basil and Italian seasoning contribute aromatic notes to the dish.

Cooking the sauce low and slow allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, resulting in a rich and satisfying sauce that pairs perfectly with the tender gnocchi.

Preparing the gnocchi separately ensures that they remain light and fluffy, adding a comforting texture to the dish.

Layering the gnocchi with the bolognese sauce in a baking dish, topped with shredded mozzarella and parmesan cheese, creates a mouthwatering cheesy crust when baked to golden perfection.

Garnishing with chopped parsley adds a fresh and vibrant touch to the finished dish, enhancing its visual appeal.

This Mozzarella Baked Gnocchi Bolognese is a comforting and satisfying meal that is perfect for cozy dinners or entertaining guests, promising to please even the most discerning palates with its delicious flavors and textures.

Nutrition Information:

Frequently Asked Questions:

Can I use pre-made gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, you can use pre-made gnocchi to save time.

Just follow the cooking instructions on the package and proceed with the recipe as directed.

Can I substitute ground turkey for ground beef?

Absolutely! Ground turkey can be a leaner option and will work well in this recipe.

Adjust cooking times as needed.

Is there a vegetarian version of this recipe?

Yes, you can omit the ground beef and bacon to make a vegetarian version.

Consider adding extra mushrooms or vegetables for flavor and texture.

Can I freeze this dish for later?

Yes, you can assemble the dish up to step 4 and freeze it before baking.

When ready to enjoy, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and bake as directed.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, you can use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure that other ingredients like Worcestershire sauce and tomato paste are gluten-free.

How can I make this dish spicier?

You can adjust the amount of red pepper flakes or add some chopped fresh chili peppers to increase the heat level according to your taste.

Can I add other vegetables to the sauce?

Absolutely! Feel free to add diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to the sauce for extra nutrition and flavor.

Can I use dried basil instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use dried basil, but reduce the amount to about 1 teaspoon since dried herbs are more concentrated in flavor.

Can I omit the bacon for a lighter version?

Yes, you can omit the bacon if desired. It adds flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without it.

Can I use different types of cheese for the topping?

Sure! While mozzarella and parmesan work well, you can also try other cheeses like cheddar or provolone for a different flavor profile.

Adjust quantities to your preference.