Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Easy Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna is the perfect one-pan meal for busy weeknights. With a delicious combination of tender potato gnocchi, savory ground beef, marinara sauce, and plenty of cheese, it’s a comforting dish that comes together in under an hour. The stovetop method eliminates the need for layering and baking, making this lasagna incredibly easy to prepare. It’s a hearty, family-friendly dinner that’s packed with flavor and will quickly become a favorite!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

1 lb ground beef
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 small onion, chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
½ teaspoon onion powder
½ teaspoon garlic powder
½ teaspoon dried oregano
½ teaspoon dried parsley
½ teaspoon salt
Freshly ground pepper, to taste
28 oz marinara sauce
½ cup chicken broth
4 oz mozzarella, shredded or sliced
¼ cup fresh Parmigiano Reggiano, grated
24 oz potato gnocchi
Optional: Fresh basil for garnish

Directions

Cook the Ground Beef: In a large sauté pan, brown the ground beef over medium heat. Once cooked, drain off any excess grease.
Sauté Aromatics and Seasonings: Add olive oil to the pan, then toss in the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sprinkle in the onion powder, garlic powder, oregano, parsley, salt, and pepper. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the onion softens and the mixture becomes fragrant.
Add the Sauce and Broth: Stir in the marinara sauce and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 20 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
Add the Gnocchi: Stir in the potato gnocchi, cover the pan, and simmer for another 10 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and has absorbed the sauce.
Add Cheese: Stir in the shredded mozzarella cheese until melted and well incorporated. Sprinkle the Parmigiano Reggiano on top for an extra cheesy touch.
Serve: Garnish with fresh basil (optional) and serve hot.

Servings and Timing

Servings: 4
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 30 minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes

Variations

Vegetarian Version: Substitute the ground beef with plant-based ground meat or use more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers for a hearty vegetarian version.
Extra Veggies: Add spinach, kale, or roasted vegetables to the sauce for more nutrition and flavor.
Cheese Options: Experiment with different cheeses such as cheddar, ricotta, or a blend of Italian cheeses for a varied taste.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Reheat in a pan on the stovetop over low heat, adding a little bit of water or broth to loosen up the sauce. You can also reheat in the microwave for a few minutes.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. Just add it directly to the sauce without thawing it first.
Can I use a different type of meat?
Yes, you can substitute the ground beef with ground turkey, chicken, or even sausage for a different flavor profile.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add red pepper flakes, hot sauce, or some diced jalapeños to the sauce to kick up the heat.
Can I add more cheese?
Absolutely! If you love cheesy lasagna, feel free to add more mozzarella or even sprinkle some ricotta cheese into the mixture before simmering.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the dish ahead of time and refrigerate it. When ready to serve, simply reheat it on the stovetop over low heat.
Can I make this in a slow cooker?
Yes, you can cook the beef mixture in the slow cooker on low for 4 hours, then add the gnocchi and cheese in the last 30 minutes.
What can I serve with this?
A fresh green salad or garlic bread would be perfect sides to complement this hearty dish.

Conclusion

This Easy Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna is a game-changer for those who love lasagna but don’t want the hassle of baking layers and waiting for an hour. With its comforting flavors and simple preparation, it’s an ideal dinner for busy nights or when you need something filling and satisfying in no time. Enjoy the warm, cheesy, and savory goodness with your family tonight!

Easy Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna