Marinara Ground Beef Gnocchi Bake

• 1 pound ground beef
• 1 24-ounce jar marinara sauce
• 1 pound gnocchi
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt
• Black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh basil for garnish

Steps

1. 1 Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. 2 In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add ground beef and cook until browned, breaking it into crumbles.
3. 3 Stir in garlic, oregano, and red pepper flakes, cooking for another minute.
4. 4 Add marinara sauce and simmer for 5 minutes.
5. 5 Meanwhile, cook gnocchi according to package directions until al dente, then drain.
6. 6 Combine gnocchi and beef mixture in a greased 9x13 inch baking dish.
7. 7 Top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese.
8. 8 Bake for 20-25 minutes, until cheese is bubbly and golden.
9. 9 Garnish with fresh basil before serving.

Equipment

• Large skillet
• 9x13 inch baking dish
• Oven

Variations

• Add Italian sausage for extra flavor.
• Top with breadcrumbs for a crispy finish.

Substitutions

• Substitute ground beef with ground turkey or chicken.
• Use marinara sauce with no added sugar if preferred.

Pairings

• Pairs well with a crisp Pinot Grigio or a cold draft beer.

Nutrition

Tips

• For a vegetarian option, substitute ground beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based alternative.
• Add a handful of spinach or zucchini for extra nutrients.

Storage

Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven at 350°F until warmed through.

Freezing: Freezes well for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat in a preheated 350°F oven until hot.

Serving Suggestions

• Serve with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.

FAQ