Ricotta Gnocchi alla Bolognese

Ingredients and Weight:

• 1 pound whole milk ricotta cheese
• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 large egg
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• For the Bolognese sauce:
  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 pound Italian sausage
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 carrots, chopped
  • 2 celery stalks, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 can (28 ounces) crushed tomatoes
  • 1 cup dry red wine
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried basil
  • 1 bay leaf

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 30 minutes for the sauce, plus 5 minutes for the gnocchi

Difficulty Level:

• 3 (medium)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Make the gnocchi: In a large bowl, combine the ricotta cheese, flour, egg, Parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper. Mix until well combined.
2. Shape the gnocchi: Divide the dough into 8 equal portions. Roll each portion into a long rope, about 1 inch thick. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces. Use a fork to press ridges into each piece.
3. Make the Bolognese sauce: In a large pot, brown the ground beef and Italian sausage. Remove the meat and drain off the fat.
4. Cook the vegetables: Add the onion, carrots, and celery to the pot and cook until softened. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
5. Add the tomatoes, wine, and broth: Stir in the crushed tomatoes, red wine, and beef broth. Add the oregano, basil, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened.
6. Cook the gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook for 5 minutes, or until they float to the top.
7. Drain the gnocchi: Use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi from the water. Add the gnocchi to the Bolognese sauce and stir to combine.
8. Serve: Garnish with grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley.

Nutritional Information:

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 20 grams
• Carbohydrates: 50 grams
• Protein: 30 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Tender and pillowy gnocchi with a rich and flavorful Bolognese sauce
• Italian-inspired dish with a touch of American comfort
• Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy evening meal

User Comments:

• "These gnocchi were absolutely delicious! The ricotta made them so light and fluffy, and the Bolognese sauce was rich and hearty."
• "I'm not usually a fan of gnocchi, but these were amazing. The sauce was so flavorful and the gnocchi cooked perfectly."
• "This dish was the perfect balance of Italian tradition and American indulgence."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be sure to cook the gnocchi until they float to the top of the water, or they will be undercooked and gummy.
• Don't overmix the gnocchi dough, or the gnocchi will be tough.
• Let the Bolognese sauce simmer for at least 30 minutes for the flavors to develop.
• You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of ground beef and Italian sausage, if desired.