Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies Recipe

If you’re looking to wow your taste buds and impress everyone at the dinner table, the Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies Recipe is an absolute game changer. This dish combines pillowy-soft gnocchi, a rich and flavorful red sauce loaded with savory ground beef, and a tangy, fresh herbed ricotta that takes every bite to the next level. And let’s not forget those irresistible golden crispies that add a delightful crunch, making this recipe a decadent experience that feels both comforting and elevated all at once.

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple but mighty, each playing a crucial role in building the deep, layered flavors and inviting textures of this dish. From the robust beef to the zesty herbed ricotta, every element brings something special to the table.

• 1 pound ground beef: Adds hearty richness and depth to the sauce.
• 1-2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil: For sautéing and infusing the sauce with silky, fruity notes.
• 1 medium yellow onion, minced: Provides a sweet-savory base for the sauce.
• 2 large cloves garlic, minced: Offers aromatic warmth that permeates the sauce.
• 28-ounce can crushed tomatoes: The vibrant heart of the red sauce, naturally rich and flavorful.
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano: Brings an earthy, herbal accent that complements the tomato.
• Salt and red pepper flakes to taste: Essential for balancing flavor and adding a gentle kick.
• 6-8 ounces ricotta cheese: Creamy, fresh element that contrasts beautifully with the sauce.
• 1 small clove garlic, grated: Adds a gentle garlic brightness to the herbed ricotta.
• Zest and juice of 1 lemon: Gives the ricotta a lift with citrusy brightness and tang.
• Salt to taste (for ricotta): Enhances flavors and keeps the cheese fresh.
• Minced herbs to taste (chives, parsley, and/or thyme): Fresh greenery that adds a lively, fragrant note to the ricotta.
• Two 16-ounce packages pre-cooked gnocchi: The soft, pillowy base that soaks up the red sauce perfectly.

How to Make Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies Recipe

Step 1: Brown the beef

Start by heating a large skillet over high heat. Add the ground beef and use a spoon or spatula to break it apart as it cooks. Let it brown nicely until there’s no pink left—it should develop a rich, savory crust that adds incredible flavor. Once fully cooked, remove the beef from the pan. You can choose to drain the excess grease or leave a little for extra flavor in the next steps.

Step 2: Simmer the sauce

Lower the heat so you don’t burn the garlic, then add your olive oil, minced onion, and garlic to the same pan. Sauté gently over medium-low heat until the onion is soft and everything smells fragrant. Next, stir in the crushed tomatoes and dried oregano. Return the browned beef to the pan, then let this sauce simmer quietly for 30 to 45 minutes. This slow, lazy simmer allows all the flavors to marry beautifully. Near the end, taste and adjust with salt and red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Make the herbed ricotta

While your sauce is working its magic, combine ricotta cheese, grated garlic, lemon zest, and lemon juice in a small bowl. Sprinkle in your salt and minced herbs—chives, parsley, thyme—whatever you prefer for a fresh, garden-fresh flavor. Give it a good stir and taste, tweaking as needed. This herbed ricotta will soon give your dish that luscious, tangy creaminess that feels like a gourmet touch.

Step 4: Cook and crisp the gnocchi

Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions—usually just a quick boil until they float to the surface. Drain and add them directly to your bubbling red sauce in the skillet. Let everything simmer together over low heat, so the gnocchi soak up that meaty sauce and also develop a little golden crisp on the bottom. Those beautifully crisp gnocchi edges are what make this a millionaire-worthy dish!

Step 5: Plate your masterpiece

Spoon the hot gnocchi and sauce into bowls or plates, then top each serving with a generous dollop of your vibrant herbed ricotta. Finish things off by sprinkling on those golden crispies from the pan—little crunchy bites that bring exciting texture and a perfect contrast to the creamy and saucy components. Prepare for some serious “heck yes” moments!

How to Serve Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh basil leaves or extra minced parsley on top add a pop of green that brightens the plate visually and adds an herbal lift as you dig in. A light drizzle of good olive oil can also enhance the richness and tie the dish together beautifully.

Side Dishes

This dish is rich and filling, so simple sides work best. Think crisp, tangy arugula salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables like asparagus or Brussels sprouts. Garlic bread or a warm baguette can also help soak up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve the gnocchi in shallow bowls and top each portion with small spoons of ricotta, letting guests mix it in themselves. Or serve family-style with all components in individual bowls, so everyone can customize their plates. Pair with rustic wooden boards and colorful napkins to create a cozy, inviting meal vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies Recipe keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container, keeping the ricotta separate until you’re ready to serve for best freshness.

Freezing

You can freeze the saucy gnocchi (without the ricotta) for up to 2 months. Cool completely before placing in a freezer-safe container or bag. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat gnocchi and sauce on low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Add a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Add fresh herbed ricotta only after reheating for that fresh creamy touch.

FAQs

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of pre-cooked?

Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi works beautifully and cooks quickly. Just adjust your cooking time slightly as fresh gnocchi tend to cook even faster than pre-cooked packages.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Swap the ground beef for sautéed mushrooms or hearty lentils to maintain texture and richness. The rest of the recipe stays the same—and still shines.

What herbs work best in the herbed ricotta?

Chives, parsley, and thyme are classic choices here. Feel free to experiment with basil or oregano to suit your taste—they all bring lovely fresh flavors.

How can I make the golden crispies extra crispy?

Use a non-stick pan and make sure it’s hot before adding the gnocchi—don’t overcrowd the pan. Let them cook undisturbed until golden before flipping to crisp the other side.

Can this dish be made gluten-free?

Yes! Just choose gluten-free gnocchi varieties (often made with potatoes and rice flour). Double-check your other ingredients, such as broth or cheese, just to be safe.

Final Thoughts

If you’re craving a dish that feels indulgent yet incredibly homey, the Millionaire Gnocchi with Red Sauce, Herbed Ricotta, and Golden Crispies Recipe is your new go-to. It’s proof that with a handful of simple ingredients and a little love, you can create a meal bursting with flavors and textures that will have everyone asking for seconds. Give it a try, and I promise it will become one of your favorite comfort meals to share with friends and family.

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