If you’re craving something irresistibly comforting that packs a punch of flavor and warmth, this Cheesy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake is going to be your new go-to. Imagine pillowy gnocchi swimming in a rich, hearty Bolognese sauce loaded with tender beef and smoky bacon, all generously sprinkled with golden, bubbling mature cheddar. Each bite is a celebration of textures and flavors, perfectly harmonized to create an unforgettable meal that feels like a big, cozy hug on a plate.

Cheesy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

The beauty of this Cheesy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake lies in its straightforward, pantry-friendly ingredients that come together to create something truly special. Every ingredient has its own role, whether it’s building the depth of flavor, adding a lovely soft texture, or delivering that irresistible cheesy finish.

Back bacon (2 slices, chopped): Adds a lovely smoky saltiness without overpowering the dish.
Shallots (3, finely diced): Offer a subtle sweetness and delicate aroma that lifts the sauce.
Carrot (1, finely diced): Brings natural sweetness and texture to balance the tangy tomatoes.
Celery (2 small stalks, finely diced): Contributes a gentle crunch and earthy undertones.
Garlic (3 cloves, crushed): Infuses the sauce with classic savory warmth.
Extra lean beef mince (400g): The heart of the Bolognese, offering rich protein and satisfying heft.
Dried mixed herbs (1/2 tablespoon): A blend that brings fragrant, Italian-style herbaceous notes.
Canned chopped tomatoes (400g): Provide vibrant acidity and body to the sauce.
Tomato paste (3 tablespoons): Intensifies the tomato flavor and thickens the sauce beautifully.
Balsamic vinegar (1 tablespoon): Adds a subtle tang and depth that balances the sweetness.
Granulated sweetener or sugar (1 teaspoon, optional): Smooths the acidity for a well-rounded flavor.
Chicken or beef stock (240ml): Enriches the sauce with savory background notes.
Gnocchi (500g pack): Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up every delicious drop of sauce.
Mature cheddar (120g, grated): Offers sharp, melty cheese that crowns the dish perfectly.
Olive oil cooking spray: For light frying without excess fat.
Salt and black pepper: To season and enhance all the flavors.
Fresh basil leaves (a few, torn): Add a bright, fresh herbal finish to the dish.

How to Make Cheesy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake

Step 1: Fry the Bacon

Start by heating your pan over medium-high heat with a quick spray of olive oil. Toss in the chopped back bacon and fry it until it’s beautifully golden and crisp, releasing delicious smoky aromas. Once done, fish the bacon out and set it aside. This step lays the flavorful foundation for the sauce.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pan, add the diced shallots, carrot, and celery. Cook them gently until they soften and become slightly fragrant. If the pan looks dry or the veggies start to stick, splash in a bit of water or stock to keep everything moving smoothly. These veggies build the classic base for your Bolognese sauce.

Step 3: Brown the Garlic and Beef

Add the crushed garlic to the softened vegetables and give it a quick stir. Then add the extra lean beef mince, breaking it up as it cooks to ensure it browns evenly. This step is where the rich meat flavor develops and becomes the backbone of the sauce.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients and Simmer

Return the crispy bacon to the pan and stir through the dried mixed herbs. Now pour in the chopped tomatoes, tomato paste, balsamic vinegar, and the optional sweetener if you want to smooth the acidity. Pour in the stock, bring everything to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes. You’ll end up with a thick, rich, and tasty Bolognese sauce that’s bursting with homemade goodness.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi in the Sauce

Stir in the gnocchi and allow them to simmer in the sauce for 5 to 8 minutes. Be sure to stir occasionally to prevent sticking and monitor the liquid—add a bit more stock if the gnocchi soak up too much. This allows the soft gnocchi to absorb all the flavor, making every bite satisfyingly tender and bursting with sauce.

Step 6: Season and Bake with Cheese

Season your creation with salt and black pepper to taste. Then transfer everything to a baking dish, scatter the grated mature cheddar on top, and pop it under the broiler or grill for about 4 minutes. Watch carefully—the cheese should melt, bubble, and develop a gorgeous golden crust that makes this dish utterly irresistible.

Step 7: Garnish and Serve

Once out of the oven, sprinkle torn fresh basil leaves over the cheesy surface to add a fresh, aromatic touch. Serve immediately to enjoy that gooey, hearty goodness in every mouthful.

How to Serve Cheesy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake

Garnishes

Simple fresh basil leaves work wonders here, lifting the richness with their bright herbal flavor. For a little extra kick, you could sprinkle some chili flakes or freshly cracked black pepper right before serving. A drizzle of good olive oil also adds a lovely silky finish.

Side Dishes

This bake is quite hearty on its own, but pairing it with something light and crunchy like a crisp green salad or steamed green beans provides a perfect contrast. Garlic bread or a warm, crusty loaf is also fantastic for mopping up every last cheesy, saucy bite.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve individual portions in small cast iron skillets or ramekins, allowing everyone to enjoy their own bubbling cheesy Bolognese gnocchi bake straight from the oven. You can also layer in extra veggies like roasted peppers or mushrooms for a colorful twist that adds texture and nutrition.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Cheesy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake stores beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making it just as delicious the next day.

Freezing

You can freeze this bake successfully by placing it in a freezer-safe container before baking or immediately after cooling. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, place your portion in a microwave-safe dish and heat until warmed through or pop it into a preheated oven at 180°C (350°F) until bubbly. If the sauce looks thick, add a splash of stock or water to restore the perfect consistency.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi or should I make it from scratch?

Store-bought gnocchi is perfectly fine and saves major prep time without sacrificing flavor or texture, making the recipe accessible for busy weeknights.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian-friendly?

Absolutely! Swap the beef and bacon with plant-based mince or a mix of finely chopped mushrooms and lentils for an earthy, satisfying vegetarian alternative.

What type of cheese works best in this bake?

Mature cheddar is fantastic for its sharp flavor and melting quality, but you can experiment with mozzarella for extra gooeyness or a mix of Italian cheeses for a different twist.

Can I prepare the Bolognese sauce in advance?

Yes! The sauce can be made a day or two in advance and refrigerated. When you’re ready, just reheat, add gnocchi, and proceed to bake for a quick meal.

How spicy is the Cheesy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake?

As written, the dish is mildly spiced, focusing on savory and sweet notes. You can easily add chili flakes or fresh chili to heat things up according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

This Cheesy Bolognese Gnocchi Bake is one of those dishes that brings everyone to the table with a smile. It’s comforting, flavorful, and easy enough to whip up any day of the week. If you’re looking for a warm, cheesy, and truly satisfying meal that feels like an embrace in every forkful, don’t wait—make this your next kitchen adventure and enjoy every delicious bite!