Creamy Macaroni with Beef and Gnocchi

A comforting casserole combining ground beef, tender gnocchi, macaroni, and a creamy cheese sauce—perfect for family dinners.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This one-pan dish delivers creamy indulgence, hearty protein, and pillowy gnocchi all in a cozy, oven-baked format. It’s an ideal weeknight comfort meal that doubles wonderfully as leftovers.

Ingredients

(Tip: You can find the complete list of ingredients and their measurements in the recipe card below.)

• ground beef
• onion
• garlic
• canned diced tomatoes (optional for tang)
• beef broth
• heavy cream or half‑and‑half
• cream cheese
• shredded cheddar cheese
• dried oregano or Italian seasoning
• salt and pepper
• elbow macaroni
• potato gnocchi

Directions

1. Preheat oven to 350 °F (175 °C).
2. In a large oven-proof skillet or Dutch oven, brown the ground beef with chopped onion and garlic; drain any excess fat.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes (if using), beef broth, cream, cream cheese, seasonings, macaroni, and gnocchi until well combined.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer; remove from heat and stir in most of the cheddar cheese.
5. Top with remaining cheese.
6. Bake uncovered for 20–25 minutes until pasta is tender and cheese is melted and slightly golden.
7. Let cool for 5 minutes before serving.

Servings and timing

• Servings: Yields 6–8 generous portions.
• Timing: Prep 15 minutes, stovetop simmer 10 minutes, baking 20–25 minutes, plus resting 5 minutes.

Variations

• Spicy version: Add ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
• Veggie-packed: Stir in sautéed mushrooms, bell peppers, or spinach.
• Protein swap: Use Italian sausage or shredded chicken in place of ground beef.

Storage/reheating

• Storage: Store leftovers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days in a covered container.
• Freezing: After cooling, freeze in single-serving portions for up to 3 months.
• Reheating: Reheat in the microwave, or in a 350 °F oven for 15–20 minutes, covered until heated through; add a splash of milk or broth if needed.

FAQs

Can I use dried pasta instead of pre-cooked gnocchi?

No—both the macaroni and gnocchi cook together in the liquid. Using dried pasta could lead to uneven cooking.

Is there a substitute for cream cheese?

You can use equal parts ricotta or mascarpone, though the texture may be slightly softer.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Yes—replace beef with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based meat substitute and use vegetable broth.

What cheese melts best for topping?

Cheddar works well, but you can also mix mozzarella, Monterey Jack, or provolone.

How do I prevent it from drying out when reheating?

Cover with foil and add a splash of milk, broth, or cream during reheating to retain moisture.

Can I double the recipe for a larger crowd?

Absolutely—use a larger oven-safe baking dish and extend baking time by about 5–10 minutes.

Could this be made on the stovetop only?

Yes—after simmering, stir in cheese and serve immediately without baking. The texture will be slightly looser.

Is it possible to add breadcrumbs on top?

Yes—sprinkle Italian-seasoned breadcrumbs over the cheese before baking for a crunchy topping.

How do I ensure the gnocchi cooks through?

Make sure there is enough liquid to cover the pasta; test by cutting a piece after baking—it should be soft.

What sides pair well with this dish?

A fresh green salad or steamed vegetables balance the richness. Garlic bread is also an excellent accompaniment.

Conclusion

Creamy Macaroni with Beef and Gnocchi is a luscious, crowd-pleasing bake that brings cheesy comfort and satisfying texture in every forkful. With minimal effort and great make‑ahead potential, it’s a delicious option for busy nights and casual gatherings.

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