Name: Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 1 pound lean ground beef; 1/2 cup heavy cream; 1 cup jalapeno pepper jack cheese, shredded; 1/2 medium onion, chopped; 5 cloves garlic, chopped; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon chili powder (or paprika); 1.5 cups marinara sauce; 1 cup chicken broth (or water); 1 pound potato gnocchi (shelf-stable, uncooked); Salt and pepper to taste; Red pepper flakes (optional)

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If you are craving a comforting and flavorful meal that comes together in just one pan and 30 minutes, the Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. This dish perfectly marries tender potato gnocchi with savory ground beef, all swimming in a luscious, creamy tomato sauce that feels both indulgent and homey. With just a handful of simple but essential ingredients, you can whip up a vibrant, satisfying dinner that’s bursting with bold flavors and a touch of cheesy goodness. Trust me, once you try this skillet, it will be your go-to for any weeknight craving that demands both ease and taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

A close-up view inside a large black pan showing ground meat and chopped onions cooking together. The meat is in two main colors, with raw pinkish-red parts and browned brown parts mixed evenly throughout. Small translucent white onion pieces are scattered all over, some partially cooked and shining from the heat. There is some bubbling fat and liquid at the center where the meat is frying. The pan has a matte black texture with the word STAUB on the handle area, and it sits on a stove next to a white marbled surface. Steam rises slightly from the cooking mix, giving a warm and fresh cooking vibe photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

The beauty of this Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe lies in its simplicity. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color, making the dish both hearty and inviting.

Olive oil: Provides a rich base for browning the beef and softening the onions, adding depth of flavor.
Lean ground beef: The protein powerhouse that brings savory richness without excess fat.
Medium onion: Adds sweetness and sharpness, balancing the meat and sauce beautifully.
Garlic cloves: Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth that complements every bite.
Chili powder: Brings a mild smoky heat, enhancing the tomato sauce’s complexity.
Marinara sauce: Acts as the flavorful, tangy base of the creamy tomato sauce.
Chicken broth: Lightens the sauce and helps cook the gnocchi perfectly.
Heavy cream: Turns the tomato sauce decadently creamy, giving a luscious texture.
Potato gnocchi: The tender, pillowy carbs that soak up the sauce wonderfully.
Jalapeno pepper jack cheese: Melts into the dish, adding a spicy, cheesy kick.
Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
Red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a little extra heat at the end.

How to Make Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Beef and Onion

Start by heating olive oil in a large, high-sided skillet over medium heat. Add the ground beef and chopped onion, cooking for about 10 minutes. Stir and crumble the beef as it cooks to ensure it browns evenly without clumping. Once fully cooked, scoop out any excess fat or liquid to keep the sauce from becoming greasy. This step is key because it sets the savory foundation of the dish.

Step 2: Add Garlic and Spices

Next, toss in the chopped garlic and sprinkle the chili powder over the beef. Season generously with salt and pepper. Cooking these aromatics for around 2 minutes while stirring constantly releases their flavors, building a fragrant base that permeates the entire skillet.

Step 3: Combine Sauces and Gnocchi

Pour in the marinara sauce, chicken broth, and heavy cream, stirring everything together to form a creamy tomato blend. Now add the uncooked potato gnocchi and bring the mixture to a boil. Cover the skillet and reduce heat to medium or low-medium, allowing the gnocchi to cook for about 5 minutes while the sauce simmers and thickens. This step helps the gnocchi soften right in the sauce, absorbing all those rich flavors.

Step 4: Melt the Cheese and Season

Finally, stir in the shredded jalapeno pepper jack cheese until it melts completely. Remove the skillet from heat, then taste and adjust seasoning with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want an extra kick of heat. The melted cheese adds creaminess and a slight spicy edge that takes this recipe next-level.

How to Serve Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe

A white bowl filled with three layers: the bottom layer is a creamy, slightly chunky light brown sauce with visible bits of cooked ground meat and diced red tomatoes; on top, plump, ridged yellow gnocchi pieces are scattered evenly; the dish is garnished with small green herb pieces sprinkled across the surface. The bowl sits on a white marbled texture, with a sprig of fresh rosemary placed next to it and a gold fork and spoon set nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped basil or parsley brings a bright and fresh note that contrasts so nicely with the creamy tomato sauce. You can also add a dusting of grated Parmesan cheese for an added nutty flavor and a touch of elegance.

Side Dishes

This skillet pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad tossed in lemon vinaigrette or some roasted vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. A warm slice of crusty bread is also perfect for soaking up every last bit of that scrumptious sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve the skillet straight from the pan at the table for a rustic, cozy feel that’s perfect for casual gatherings. For a more polished presentation, portion it into shallow bowls and garnish with fresh herbs and a drizzle of good quality olive oil or balsamic reduction—trust me, it impresses every time.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors develop even more as it rests, making the next-day taste even better.

Freezing

You can freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Just make sure to cool the dish completely before freezing to preserve the texture of the gnocchi and sauce.

Reheating

When reheating, warm the skillet gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short bursts. Add a splash of broth or water if the sauce thickens too much. Stir frequently to evenly warm everything and revive the creamy texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of shelf-stable ones?

Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi will cook even faster, so reduce the simmering time slightly to prevent overcooking. The texture will be incredibly tender.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply substitute the ground beef with plant-based meat alternatives or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, flavorful vegetarian version without sacrificing richness.

What can I use instead of heavy cream?

You can substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter option or coconut cream for a dairy-free twist, though flavors will vary slightly.

How spicy is this dish?

The chili powder and jalapeno pepper jack cheese add a mild to moderate heat, which can easily be adjusted by reducing the chili or skipping the red pepper flakes for a milder version.

Can I prepare this in advance and reheat for meal prep?

Definitely! This skillet holds up well in the fridge and reheats beautifully, making it a perfect meal prep option that tastes fresh even after a day or two.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a quick, comforting, and absolutely delicious meal, you must try this Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe. It’s a wonderful blend of textures and flavors that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this one-pan wonder is sure to become a treasured favorite in your dinner rotation. Get ready to enjoy a perfect balance of creamy sauce, tender gnocchi, and hearty beef that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Ground Beef Gnocchi Skillet in Creamy Tomato Sauce Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need