Jump to Recipe Print RecipeAs I stood by the stove, I couldn’t help but feel a wave of nostalgia wash over me, reminding me of weekends spent in my grandmother’s kitchen, creating comforting dishes together. Today’s creation is a spin on her classic lasagna, featuring an Easy Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna that comes together in under an hour. This recipe combines fluffy potato gnocchi with savory ground beef and rich marinara — all in one pan for minimal cleanup! It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you’re craving comfort food without the fuss. Plus, you can easily customize it with your favorite cheeses or proteins, ensuring every family member gets something they’ll love. Are you ready to dive into this deliciously simple dish that will have you coming back for seconds? Why is Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna a Must-Try? Comforting Elegance: This dish delivers a cozy, homemade flavor that rivals your favorite Italian restaurant, all from your kitchen. Quick Preparation: With a cook time of just 30 minutes, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready in no time—perfect for those hectic weeknights. One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to extensive cleanup! This recipe means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy with family. Versatile Options: Customize your lasagna with different proteins or cheeses, making it a hit for picky eaters. You can even check out my tips on how to incorporate vegetables for a nutritious twist! Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: Each bite features a rich combination of cheesy goodness and savory meat, guaranteed to keep everyone coming back for seconds! Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna Ingredients For the Meat Sauce • Ground Beef – a hearty protein layer; substitute with turkey or chicken for a leaner option. • Olive Oil – for sautéing; feel free to use vegetable oil if you prefer. • Onion – adds depth; yellow or white onions work best for flavor. • Garlic – essential for that aromatic kick; adjust to taste or use garlic powder if needed. • Onion Powder – enhances the flavor; omit if using fresh onions. • Garlic Powder – for a concentrated garlicky taste; fresh garlic can also be a good substitute. • Dried Oregano – imparts classic Italian flavor; fresh oregano can be used if you have it. • Dried Parsley – brings freshness; substitute with fresh parsley if available. • Salt and Pepper – key for seasoning; adjust based on your preference. For the Sauce • Marinara Sauce – the rich base of the dish; you can opt for store-bought or homemade. • Chicken Broth – adds moisture; swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian-friendly dish. For the Pasta & Cheese • Potato Gnocchi – the star ingredient; store-bought makes for quick prep, but homemade can work too. • Mozzarella Cheese – for that delightful melty topping; feel free to substitute with provolone or cheddar. • Parmigiano Reggiano – adds a rich, nutty flavor; grated Parmesan is a cost-effective alternative. Optional Garnish • Fresh Basil – adds a burst of flavor; use it when in season for the best taste. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna Step 1: Brown the Ground Beef In a large sauté pan, heat over medium-high heat and add your ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease to ensure a leaner flavor base for your Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna and set the meat aside. Step 2: Sauté Aromatics In the same pan, add a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat and toss in chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent, releasing a delicious aroma. Sprinkle in onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried parsley, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine the flavors. Step 3: Add Sauce Ingredients Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, stirring to mix them well with the sautéed aromatics. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble slightly for about 2 minutes. This step infuses the Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna with rich flavor, so keep an eye on it to prevent burning. Step 4: Simmer Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low, letting the sauce simmer for 20 minutes. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully while you prepare the next steps. Occasionally check, giving it a gentle stir to ensure nothing sticks to the bottom of the pan. Step 5: Incorporate Gnocchi After 20 minutes, uncover the pan and add the potato gnocchi into the simmering sauce. Stir gently to mix, then cover again and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes. The gnocchi will absorb the sauce and become tender, creating that heartwarming taste you love in a lasagna. Step 6: Add Cheese Once the gnocchi are cooked, stir in the mozzarella cheese until it melts and creates a gooey, creamy texture throughout the dish. Ensure the cheese is well combined, providing that essential cheesy delight your Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna deserves. Step 7: Finish with Parmigiano Before serving, sprinkle some grated Parmigiano Reggiano over the top for an added layer of flavor. Let it sit for a minute, allowing the cheese to soften slightly and enhance the rich taste of the dish, making it that much more delectable. Step 8: Serve Hot Scoop generous portions into bowls and serve warm. You can optionally garnish with fresh basil for a burst of flavor that complements the rich sauce. This Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna is ready to share with loved ones, offering comfort and satisfaction in every bite. Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna Variations Feel free to get creative and personalize your dish with delightful twists that will make it uniquely yours! Vegetarian Delight: Replace ground beef with cooked lentils or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty, meatless option. The earthy flavors meld beautifully with the sauce. Sausage Swap: Use Italian sausage instead of ground beef for a flavor-packed punch. Choose sweet or spicy varieties to suit your palate, adding an extra layer of depth to your lasagna. Cheesy Goodness: Experiment with ricotta or goat cheese for creaminess. Mixing them in with the mozzarella brings a tangy richness that elevates this cozy dish. Veggie Boost: Toss in fresh spinach or sautéed zucchini into the mix for a nutritional boost. This ensures deliciousness with every bite while bulking up the meal with goodness. Spicy Kick: Adding red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce can turn up the heat on your lasagna. Just a pinch enhances the flavor and adds a fun twist for spice lovers. One-Pan Wonder: Make it a complete meal by adding bite-sized broccoli florets or diced bell peppers alongside the gnocchi. Not only does this provide color, but it also maximizes nutrition! Hearty Broth: For extra flavor, use homemade chicken or vegetable broth instead of store-bought. This little swap brings richness to your sauce that elevates your dish beautifully. Herb Infusion: Fresh basil, thyme, or rosemary can add layers of flavor. Sprinkle them in during cooking or use them as a garnish, enhancing the overall freshness of your lasagna. Now that you have these variations, let your culinary creativity shine! If you’re looking for great ways to include fresh veggies, check out my guide on how to incorporate vegetables into meals seamlessly. Enjoy your kitchen adventure! Expert Tips for Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna Drain Grease Well: Ensure to drain the ground beef thoroughly after browning to prevent excessive grease in your Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna, keeping it light and flavorful. Stir Occasionally: While simmering, stir the dish occasionally to prevent it from sticking to the pan, ensuring an even cooking process and perfect texture. Brown Gnocchi for Flavor: For added depth, consider lightly browning the gnocchi in a separate pan before adding them to the sauce—this simple step enhances their flavor! Adjust Seasoning: Taste as you go! The right amount of salt and pepper can elevate your Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna, so don’t be afraid to adjust according to your preference. Experiment with Cheese: Feel free to mix and match cheeses for varied flavors; using different types in your Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna can create a unique experience each time! Make Ahead Options These Easy Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna are perfect for busy weeknights! You can prepare the meat sauce up to 24 hours in advance—simply brown the ground beef, sauté the aromatics, and mix in the marinara sauce and broth. Store the prepared sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep flavors fresh. The gnocchi can also be added before serving, as you want them to retain their texture. When you’re ready to enjoy, just simmer the sauce, stir in the gnocchi, and melt the cheese for that comforting finish. This way, you can enjoy a homemade meal with minimal effort and maximum flavor! What to Serve with Easy Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna Pairing delicious sides with this delectable one-pan wonder elevates your meal and rounds out the dining experience beautifully. Garlic Bread: A classic pairing! The crunchy, buttery flavor complements the creamy lasagna while offering a satisfying crunch. Mixed Green Salad: A vibrant mix of fresh greens adds a nice contrast with a light vinaigrette that cuts through the richness. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal veggies add not only color but also nutritious elements that enhance the overall meal while being a treat for the senses. Try zucchini and bell peppers for a delightful, caramelized flavor. Caesar Salad: Crisp romaine tossed with creamy dressing and crunchy croutons introduces a satisfying texture that balances the soft gnocchi. Sparkling Water: Infused with lemon or mint, it refreshes the palate between bites and keeps the meal vibrant. Dessert: A light tiramisu or panna cotta makes for an elegant conclusion, soothing the palate with subtle sweetness after the hearty main course. Cheesy Garlic Knots: These delightful bites are perfect for dipping into the marinara sauce, providing a fun, interactive dining experience. Storage Tips for Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheating in the microwave or on the stovetop will keep flavors fresh. Freezer: You can freeze portions of Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna for up to 2 months. Make sure to use a freezer-safe container, and allow to thaw in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: For best results, reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture. Stir occasionally for even heating. Leftovers: If you expect multiple servings, consider portioning your lasagna into individual containers right after making it for easy, quick meals later on! Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna Recipe FAQs What type of gnocchi should I use? For this Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna, I recommend using store-bought potato gnocchi for convenience. They cook quickly and provide that perfect, pillowy texture that complements the sauce. If you want to get adventurous, homemade gnocchi can also be used, but ensure it’s cooked properly before adding to the sauce to keep everything balanced! How should I store leftovers? Absolutely! Leftovers of your Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Make sure to let it cool completely before sealing, as this helps prevent condensation inside the container. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, I suggest reheating on the stovetop for the best flavor. Add a splash of chicken broth or water to maintain moisture while heating—no one likes dry lasagna! Can I freeze my leftovers? Yes, you can freeze portions of your Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna for up to 2 months! Just pour the cooled lasagna into a freezer-safe, airtight container. When you’re ready to dive back in, transfer it to the fridge the night before to allow it to thaw slowly. For reheating, I advise using a low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. This way, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time! How can I customize this recipe for dietary preferences? Great question! This Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna is quite versatile. For a vegetarian option, feel free to swap the ground beef with cooked lentils or even mushrooms for that hearty feel. If you’re avoiding dairy, you might try using cashew cheese or vegan mozzarella for a plant-based alternative. And don’t shy away from incorporating veggies like spinach or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor! What should I do if my sauce is too thick? If your sauce turns out thicker than desired, no worries! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or water while it simmers and stir well. Do this gradually until you reach your desired consistency. It’s a good idea to adjust this before adding the gnocchi to ensure everything cooks evenly. Can I use a different type of cheese? Absolutely! The beauty of this Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna lies in its flexibility. If you’re not a fan of mozzarella, opt for provolone or even a sprinkle of goat cheese for a different flavor profile. I often mix a couple of cheeses to create a richer taste, and experimenting can lead to delightful discoveries! One-Pan Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna Ready in 30 Minutes Enjoy this comforting Stovetop Gnocchi Lasagna that comes together in under 30 minutes, combining gnocchi, ground beef, and marinara for a delicious family meal. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 10 minutes minsCook Time 30 minutes minsTotal Time 40 minutes mins Servings: 4 bowlsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ItalianCalories: 450 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meat Sauce1 pound Ground Beef substitute with turkey or chicken for a leaner option2 tablespoons Olive Oil feel free to use vegetable oil if you prefer1 medium Onion yellow or white onions work best for flavor3 cloves Garlic adjust to taste or use garlic powder if needed1 teaspoon Onion Powder omit if using fresh onions1 teaspoon Garlic Powder fresh garlic can also be a substitute1 teaspoon Dried Oregano fresh oregano can be used if available1 teaspoon Dried Parsley substitute with fresh parsley if availableto taste Saltto taste PepperFor the Sauce24 ounces Marinara Sauce store-bought or homemade1 cup Chicken Broth swap for vegetable broth for vegetarian optionFor the Pasta & Cheese1 pound Potato Gnocchi store-bought or homemade8 ounces Mozzarella Cheese substitute with provolone or cheddar0.5 cup Parmigiano Reggiano grated Parmesan as a cost-effective alternativeOptional Garnishto taste Fresh Basil use when in season for the best taste Equipment Large Sauté Pan Method Cooking StepsIn a large sauté pan, heat over medium-high heat and add your ground beef. Cook, stirring occasionally, for about 5-7 minutes until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess grease and set the meat aside.In the same pan, add a drizzle of olive oil over medium heat and toss in chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onions soften and become translucent. Sprinkle in onion powder, garlic powder, dried oregano, dried parsley, salt, and pepper, stirring to combine.Pour in the marinara sauce and chicken broth, stirring to mix well with the sautéed aromatics. Bring to a gentle simmer, allowing it to bubble slightly for about 2 minutes.Cover the pan and reduce the heat to low, letting the sauce simmer for 20 minutes. Occasionally check and stir gently.After 20 minutes, uncover the pan and add the potato gnocchi into the simmering sauce. Stir gently, then cover again and let simmer for an additional 10 minutes.Stir in the mozzarella cheese until it melts and combines into the dish.Sprinkle grated Parmigiano Reggiano over the top before serving. Let it sit for a minute.Scoop portions into bowls and serve warm, optionally garnished with fresh basil. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 450kcalCarbohydrates: 35gProtein: 25gFat: 20gSaturated Fat: 9gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 8gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 600mgFiber: 2gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 10IUVitamin C: 5mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 15mg NotesEnsure to drain the ground beef thoroughly to keep the dish light. Stir occasionally while simmering to prevent sticking. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
