Introduction

This Cheesy Gnocchi Bake is a comforting and hearty dish loaded with tender gnocchi, savory beef, and a rich tomato sauce, all topped with melted mature cheddar. It’s perfect for a cozy family dinner or a satisfying meal any night of the week.

A white bowl filled with soft, round gnocchi covered in thick red tomato sauce mixed with browned ground meat. On top, there is a generous layer of grated white cheese melting slightly into the sauce. Small fresh green basil leaves are scattered over the cheese, adding a fresh touch. The bowl is placed on a white marbled surface, and the food looks warm and inviting. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

2 slices of back bacon, fat removed, chopped
3 shallots, finely diced
1 carrot, finely diced
2 small stalks of celery, finely diced
3 cloves of garlic, crushed
400g (14oz) extra lean beef mince (ground beef)
1/2 tablespoon dried mixed herbs
400g (14oz) chopped tomatoes, canned
3 tablespoons tomato paste (puree)
1 tablespoon balsamic vinegar
1 teaspoon granulated sweetener or sugar (optional)
240ml (1 cup) chicken or beef stock
500g (17.5oz) pack of gnocchi
120g (4.2oz) mature cheddar, grated
Olive oil cooking spray
Salt and black pepper
Few fresh basil leaves, torn

Instructions

Step 1: Spray a frying pan over medium-high heat with olive oil spray. Add the chopped bacon and fry until golden. Remove bacon from the pan and set aside.
Step 2: In the same pan, add the shallots, carrot, and celery. Fry until softened, adding a splash of water or stock if needed to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Add the crushed garlic and ground beef to the pan. Cook until the beef is browned all over.
Step 4: Return the bacon to the pan. Stir in the dried mixed herbs, chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, sweetener (or sugar, if using), stock, and balsamic vinegar. Bring the mixture to a boil, then cover and simmer for 20 minutes until the sauce is thick and rich.
Step 5: Stir in the gnocchi and continue to simmer for 5 to 8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are cooked through. Add more stock if the gnocchi absorb too much liquid.
Step 6: Season the sauce with salt and black pepper to taste. Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, top with grated cheddar cheese, and place under the broiler or grill for about 4 minutes until the cheese is melted and golden.
Step 7: Scatter fresh torn basil leaves over the top and serve immediately.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian option, substitute the beef and bacon with mushrooms or plant-based mince.
Add a pinch of chili flakes for a subtle heat boost.
Use mozzarella or a cheese blend for a different cheesy texture and flavor.
If you prefer a creamier sauce, stir in a splash of cream or creme fraiche before baking.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through. For best results, cover with foil when reheating in the oven to prevent the cheese from drying out.

How to Serve

This image shows a black bowl filled with gnocchi covered in a thick tomato sauce mixed with ground meat, topped with grated cheese and fresh green basil leaves. The gnocchi are soft and slightly browned, sitting under a rich, chunky red sauce. The cheese is sprinkled unevenly and melting into the sauce, and the basil leaves add a bright green contrast on top. The bowl sits on a white marbled surface, making the colors of the food stand out. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the simmering time to ensure they cook through properly.

What can I substitute for back bacon?

You can use pancetta, streaky bacon, or even cooked chorizo for a different flavor profile. For a vegetarian alternative, omit bacon and add extra vegetables like mushrooms or bell peppers.