GNOCCHI WITH MEAT SAUCE

Gnocchi with Meat Sauce image

This dish from my mother-in-law is the Italian version of a meat-and-potatoes meal. I recently served it to friends who immediately wanted the recipe. -Karin Nolton, Ortonville, Michigan

Provided by Taste of Home

Categories Dinner

Time 45m

Yield 6 servings.

Number Of Ingredients 18

Ingredients

1/2 pound lean ground beef (90% lean)
1 large onion, finely chopped
4 garlic cloves, minced
2 cans (15 ounces each) tomato sauce
1 can (14-1/2 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary, crushed
1 to 2 teaspoons sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/8 teaspoon pepper
GNOCCHI:
2 cups mashed potato flakes
1-1/2 cups boiling water
2 large eggs, beaten
1-1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/4 teaspoon salt
Grated Parmesan cheese, optional

Steps:

In a large saucepan, cook the beef, onion and garlic over medium heat until meat is no longer pink; drain. Stir in the tomato sauce, diced tomatoes and seasonings. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes to allow flavors to blend., Place potato flakes in a large bowl; stir in boiling water until blended. Stir in eggs. Add flour and salt all at once; stir just until combined. Divide into fourths; turn each onto a floured surface. Roll into 3/4-in.-thick ropes; cut ropes into 3/4-in. pieces., Bring a large saucepan of water to a boil. Cook gnocchi in batches for 30-60 seconds or until gnocchi float. Remove with a slotted spoon. Place in a large bowl; top with sauce. Gently stir to coat. Sprinkle with cheese if desired.

Nutrition Facts : Calories 344 calories, Fat 5g fat (2g saturated fat), Cholesterol 94mg cholesterol, Sodium 1124mg sodium, Carbohydrate 57g carbohydrate (7g sugars, Fiber 5g fiber), Protein 18g protein.