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Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi Quick and Easy Recipe

by on July 29, 2025

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Are you ready to whip up a delicious dinner in no time? My Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish combines tender gnocchi with savory beef and a rich, creamy sauce. In this blog post, I’ll guide you through each step and share tips to make it even better. Let’s get cooking and impress your family tonight!

- 1 pound ground beef - 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup beef broth - 1 cup fresh or frozen spinach - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil - Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving - Fresh basil leaves for garnish For this recipe, I use one pound of ground beef. This gives a rich flavor. The gnocchi package should weigh 16 ounces. I like medium onion for balance, finely chopped. Two cloves of garlic give a nice scent. One cup of heavy cream makes the sauce creamy. One cup of beef broth adds depth to the taste. Spinach, fresh or frozen, adds color and nutrition. Cherry tomatoes, one cup, bring sweetness. The Italian seasoning blend gives a classic touch. You can adjust salt and pepper to your taste. I use two tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil for sautéing. Lastly, freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves complete the dish. You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This change gives a lighter taste. Consider adding mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Bell peppers can bring a sweet crunch. You might also try adding some red pepper flakes for heat. If you want a vegetarian version, use plant-based ground meat. This keeps the dish hearty while being meat-free. Each option lets you play with flavors while keeping it simple and tasty! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. When it boils, add the gnocchi. Cook them as the package says. Watch for the gnocchi to float to the top. This means they are ready. Let them cook for 1-2 more minutes. Drain them and set aside for later. In a big skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and clear. Then, add the minced garlic. Cook for another minute until you smell its strong aroma. Next, raise the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it into smaller pieces. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the beef is brown. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning blend. Lower the heat back down to medium. Carefully pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir it all together well. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken. Now, fold in the spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes. This will wilt the spinach and soften the tomatoes. The colors will brighten up the dish. Gently add the cooked gnocchi into the creamy sauce. Make sure each gnocchi gets coated well. Let it simmer on low heat for another 2 minutes. This helps the flavors mix together nicely. Once done, take the skillet off the heat. Serve the dish right away. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Add fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. To cook gnocchi well, start with a large pot of salted water. The salt helps flavor the gnocchi. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the gnocchi. Watch them closely. Once they float, cook for 1-2 more minutes. This ensures they are tender. Drain them well to avoid sogginess. For a tasty dish, don't skip the seasonings. Use salt and black pepper to taste. Italian seasoning adds depth. You can also try a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs like basil enhance the dish's aroma and taste. Always taste as you go to adjust flavors. Avoid overcooking the gnocchi. It can make them mushy. Also, don’t rush the browning of the beef. Take your time to develop flavor. If you add spinach too early, it can lose its vibrant color and crunch. Lastly, always mix gently when combining gnocchi with the sauce to keep them intact. Pro Tips Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh spinach and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and vibrant color in your dish. Perfectly Cooked Gnocchi: Make sure to cook the gnocchi until they float to the surface, as this indicates they are cooked properly and will hold their shape in the sauce. Customize Your Seasoning: Don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning according to your taste; add more Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick! Make Ahead for Easy Meals: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. Just add a splash of beef broth or cream when warming to keep it creamy. {{image_4}} You can easily swap ground beef for other proteins. Ground turkey or chicken works well. They both offer a lighter flavor. For a richer taste, try using ground lamb. You can also use diced pork for a twist. Make sure to adjust cooking times as needed. Each protein brings its own unique flavor to the dish. If you want a vegetarian version, skip the meat. Use mushrooms as the main ingredient. They add great texture and flavor. You can also use lentils for protein. Cook them in the same way as you would the meat. Adding extra herbs can enhance the flavor. Try fresh thyme or rosemary for depth. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mix. Zucchini or bell peppers work great. You can also toss in some peas or carrots. Just chop them small so they cook evenly. Adding veggies boosts the nutrition and flavor. Mix and match based on what you have at home. This dish is all about creativity! To keep your creamy ground beef gnocchi fresh, first let it cool. Once cool, place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This helps you remember when you made it. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat them on the stove. Place the gnocchi in a skillet over low heat. Stir it often to warm it evenly. If it seems dry, add a splash of beef broth or cream. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure it heats well. If you want to save some for later, freezing works great. First, cool the dish completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned before. Enjoy your creamy ground beef gnocchi anytime! To make the sauce thicker, you can simmer it longer. This helps reduce the liquid. You can also add a little cornstarch mixed with water. Just stir it in slowly until the sauce thickens to your liking. Yes, you can use homemade gnocchi! Fresh gnocchi often tastes great and adds a personal touch. Just be sure to cook it until it floats, just like the store-bought type. You can serve this dish with a side salad or garlic bread. A light arugula salad adds freshness. Garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. So, you can have this meal ready in just 30 minutes! Yes, you can make it dairy-free! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Also, swap out cheese for a dairy-free option. This way, you can enjoy the same creamy goodness without dairy. In this post, we explored the key ingredients and easy steps for making creamy ground beef gnocchi. I shared tips for cooking the gnocchi, sautéing, and creating the sauce. We also discussed various options to customize the dish and how to store any leftovers. Remember, cooking is about experimenting. Use what you like and have on hand. Enjoy your time in the kitchen and make this dish your own!

Why I Love This Recipe

  1. Simple and Quick: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights, as it can be prepared in just 30 minutes without sacrificing flavor.
  2. Creamy Deliciousness: The combination of heavy cream and beef broth creates a rich and satisfying sauce that coats the gnocchi beautifully.
  3. Nutritious Spinach: Adding spinach not only enhances the color but also boosts the nutrition, making this dish a well-rounded meal.
  4. Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or substituting proteins, making it versatile for every taste.

Ingredients

List of Ingredients

– 1 pound ground beef

– 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi

– 1 medium onion, finely chopped

– 2 cloves garlic, minced

– 1 cup heavy cream

– 1 cup beef broth

– 1 cup fresh or frozen spinach

– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

– 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend

– Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

– 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil

– Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving

– Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Quantity and Specifics

For this recipe, I use one pound of ground beef. This gives a rich flavor. The gnocchi package should weigh 16 ounces. I like medium onion for balance, finely chopped. Two cloves of garlic give a nice scent. One cup of heavy cream makes the sauce creamy. One cup of beef broth adds depth to the taste. Spinach, fresh or frozen, adds color and nutrition. Cherry tomatoes, one cup, bring sweetness. The Italian seasoning blend gives a classic touch. You can adjust salt and pepper to your taste. I use two tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil for sautéing. Lastly, freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves complete the dish.

Optional Ingredients for Variation

You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This change gives a lighter taste. Consider adding mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Bell peppers can bring a sweet crunch. You might also try adding some red pepper flakes for heat. If you want a vegetarian version, use plant-based ground meat. This keeps the dish hearty while being meat-free. Each option lets you play with flavors while keeping it simple and tasty!

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cooking the Gnocchi

Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. When it boils, add the gnocchi. Cook them as the package says. Watch for the gnocchi to float to the top. This means they are ready. Let them cook for 1-2 more minutes. Drain them and set aside for later.

Sautéing the Onion and Garlic

In a big skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and clear. Then, add the minced garlic. Cook for another minute until you smell its strong aroma.

Browning the Ground Beef

Next, raise the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it into smaller pieces. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the beef is brown. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning blend.

Creating the Creamy Sauce

Lower the heat back down to medium. Carefully pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir it all together well. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken.

Adding Spinach and Tomatoes

Now, fold in the spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes. This will wilt the spinach and soften the tomatoes. The colors will brighten up the dish.

Combining with Gnocchi

Gently add the cooked gnocchi into the creamy sauce. Make sure each gnocchi gets coated well. Let it simmer on low heat for another 2 minutes. This helps the flavors mix together nicely.

Serving Suggestions

Once done, take the skillet off the heat. Serve the dish right away. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Add fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce.

Tips & Tricks

Best Practices for Perfectly Cooked Gnocchi

To cook gnocchi well, start with a large pot of salted water. The salt helps flavor the gnocchi. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the gnocchi. Watch them closely. Once they float, cook for 1-2 more minutes. This ensures they are tender. Drain them well to avoid sogginess.

Enhancing Flavor with Seasonings

For a tasty dish, don’t skip the seasonings. Use salt and black pepper to taste. Italian seasoning adds depth. You can also try a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs like basil enhance the dish’s aroma and taste. Always taste as you go to adjust flavors.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid overcooking the gnocchi. It can make them mushy. Also, don’t rush the browning of the beef. Take your time to develop flavor. If you add spinach too early, it can lose its vibrant color and crunch. Lastly, always mix gently when combining gnocchi with the sauce to keep them intact.

Pro Tips

  1. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh spinach and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and vibrant color in your dish.
  2. Perfectly Cooked Gnocchi: Make sure to cook the gnocchi until they float to the surface, as this indicates they are cooked properly and will hold their shape in the sauce.
  3. Customize Your Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust the seasoning according to your taste; add more Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick!
  4. Make Ahead for Easy Meals: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. Just add a splash of beef broth or cream when warming to keep it creamy.

Variations

Swapping Ground Beef for Other Proteins

You can easily swap ground beef for other proteins. Ground turkey or chicken works well. They both offer a lighter flavor. For a richer taste, try using ground lamb. You can also use diced pork for a twist. Make sure to adjust cooking times as needed. Each protein brings its own unique flavor to the dish.

Vegetarian Options

If you want a vegetarian version, skip the meat. Use mushrooms as the main ingredient. They add great texture and flavor. You can also use lentils for protein. Cook them in the same way as you would the meat. Adding extra herbs can enhance the flavor. Try fresh thyme or rosemary for depth.

Adding Different Vegetables

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mix. Zucchini or bell peppers work great. You can also toss in some peas or carrots. Just chop them small so they cook evenly. Adding veggies boosts the nutrition and flavor. Mix and match based on what you have at home. This dish is all about creativity!

Storage Info

How to Store Leftovers

To keep your creamy ground beef gnocchi fresh, first let it cool. Once cool, place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This helps you remember when you made it.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat them on the stove. Place the gnocchi in a skillet over low heat. Stir it often to warm it evenly. If it seems dry, add a splash of beef broth or cream. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure it heats well.

Freezing Recommendations

If you want to save some for later, freezing works great. First, cool the dish completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned before. Enjoy your creamy ground beef gnocchi anytime!

FAQs

How do I make the sauce thicker?

To make the sauce thicker, you can simmer it longer. This helps reduce the liquid. You can also add a little cornstarch mixed with water. Just stir it in slowly until the sauce thickens to your liking.

Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Yes, you can use homemade gnocchi! Fresh gnocchi often tastes great and adds a personal touch. Just be sure to cook it until it floats, just like the store-bought type.

What can I serve with Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi?

You can serve this dish with a side salad or garlic bread. A light arugula salad adds freshness. Garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce.

How long does it take to prepare this dish?

It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. So, you can have this meal ready in just 30 minutes!

Is it possible to make this recipe dairy-free?

Yes, you can make it dairy-free! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Also, swap out cheese for a dairy-free option. This way, you can enjoy the same creamy goodness without dairy.

In this post, we explored the key ingredients and easy steps for making creamy ground beef gnocchi. I shared tips for cooking the gnocchi, sautéing, and creating the sauce. We also discussed various options to customize the dish and how to store any leftovers.

Remember, cooking is about experimenting. Use what you like and have on hand. Enjoy your time in the kitchen and make this dish your ow

- 1 pound ground beef - 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi - 1 medium onion, finely chopped - 2 cloves garlic, minced - 1 cup heavy cream - 1 cup beef broth - 1 cup fresh or frozen spinach - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend - Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste - 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil - Freshly grated Parmesan cheese for serving - Fresh basil leaves for garnish For this recipe, I use one pound of ground beef. This gives a rich flavor. The gnocchi package should weigh 16 ounces. I like medium onion for balance, finely chopped. Two cloves of garlic give a nice scent. One cup of heavy cream makes the sauce creamy. One cup of beef broth adds depth to the taste. Spinach, fresh or frozen, adds color and nutrition. Cherry tomatoes, one cup, bring sweetness. The Italian seasoning blend gives a classic touch. You can adjust salt and pepper to your taste. I use two tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil for sautéing. Lastly, freshly grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil leaves complete the dish. You can swap the ground beef for ground turkey or chicken. This change gives a lighter taste. Consider adding mushrooms for an earthy flavor. Bell peppers can bring a sweet crunch. You might also try adding some red pepper flakes for heat. If you want a vegetarian version, use plant-based ground meat. This keeps the dish hearty while being meat-free. Each option lets you play with flavors while keeping it simple and tasty! {{ingredient_image_2}} Start by boiling a large pot of salted water. When it boils, add the gnocchi. Cook them as the package says. Watch for the gnocchi to float to the top. This means they are ready. Let them cook for 1-2 more minutes. Drain them and set aside for later. In a big skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and clear. Then, add the minced garlic. Cook for another minute until you smell its strong aroma. Next, raise the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef to the skillet. Use a spoon to break it into smaller pieces. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the beef is brown. Don’t forget to season it with salt, pepper, and the Italian seasoning blend. Lower the heat back down to medium. Carefully pour in the beef broth and heavy cream. Stir it all together well. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes. This helps the sauce thicken. Now, fold in the spinach and halved cherry tomatoes. Cook for 3-4 minutes. This will wilt the spinach and soften the tomatoes. The colors will brighten up the dish. Gently add the cooked gnocchi into the creamy sauce. Make sure each gnocchi gets coated well. Let it simmer on low heat for another 2 minutes. This helps the flavors mix together nicely. Once done, take the skillet off the heat. Serve the dish right away. Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Add fresh basil leaves for a pop of color. Enjoy it with crusty bread to soak up the creamy sauce. To cook gnocchi well, start with a large pot of salted water. The salt helps flavor the gnocchi. Bring the water to a rolling boil before adding the gnocchi. Watch them closely. Once they float, cook for 1-2 more minutes. This ensures they are tender. Drain them well to avoid sogginess. For a tasty dish, don't skip the seasonings. Use salt and black pepper to taste. Italian seasoning adds depth. You can also try a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat. Fresh herbs like basil enhance the dish's aroma and taste. Always taste as you go to adjust flavors. Avoid overcooking the gnocchi. It can make them mushy. Also, don’t rush the browning of the beef. Take your time to develop flavor. If you add spinach too early, it can lose its vibrant color and crunch. Lastly, always mix gently when combining gnocchi with the sauce to keep them intact. Pro Tips Fresh Ingredients Matter: Always use fresh spinach and ripe cherry tomatoes for the best flavor and vibrant color in your dish. Perfectly Cooked Gnocchi: Make sure to cook the gnocchi until they float to the surface, as this indicates they are cooked properly and will hold their shape in the sauce. Customize Your Seasoning: Don't hesitate to adjust the seasoning according to your taste; add more Italian seasoning or a pinch of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick! Make Ahead for Easy Meals: This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated. Just add a splash of beef broth or cream when warming to keep it creamy. {{image_4}} You can easily swap ground beef for other proteins. Ground turkey or chicken works well. They both offer a lighter flavor. For a richer taste, try using ground lamb. You can also use diced pork for a twist. Make sure to adjust cooking times as needed. Each protein brings its own unique flavor to the dish. If you want a vegetarian version, skip the meat. Use mushrooms as the main ingredient. They add great texture and flavor. You can also use lentils for protein. Cook them in the same way as you would the meat. Adding extra herbs can enhance the flavor. Try fresh thyme or rosemary for depth. Feel free to add your favorite vegetables to the mix. Zucchini or bell peppers work great. You can also toss in some peas or carrots. Just chop them small so they cook evenly. Adding veggies boosts the nutrition and flavor. Mix and match based on what you have at home. This dish is all about creativity! To keep your creamy ground beef gnocchi fresh, first let it cool. Once cool, place it in an airtight container. Store it in the fridge. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days. Make sure to label the container with the date. This helps you remember when you made it. When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, reheat them on the stove. Place the gnocchi in a skillet over low heat. Stir it often to warm it evenly. If it seems dry, add a splash of beef broth or cream. You can also use the microwave. Heat it in a microwave-safe dish for 1-2 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure it heats well. If you want to save some for later, freezing works great. First, cool the dish completely. Then, transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It can last up to 3 months in the freezer. When you’re ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the fridge. Reheat as mentioned before. Enjoy your creamy ground beef gnocchi anytime! To make the sauce thicker, you can simmer it longer. This helps reduce the liquid. You can also add a little cornstarch mixed with water. Just stir it in slowly until the sauce thickens to your liking. Yes, you can use homemade gnocchi! Fresh gnocchi often tastes great and adds a personal touch. Just be sure to cook it until it floats, just like the store-bought type. You can serve this dish with a side salad or garlic bread. A light arugula salad adds freshness. Garlic bread is perfect for soaking up the creamy sauce. It takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook. So, you can have this meal ready in just 30 minutes! Yes, you can make it dairy-free! Use coconut cream instead of heavy cream. Also, swap out cheese for a dairy-free option. This way, you can enjoy the same creamy goodness without dairy. In this post, we explored the key ingredients and easy steps for making creamy ground beef gnocchi. I shared tips for cooking the gnocchi, sautéing, and creating the sauce. We also discussed various options to customize the dish and how to store any leftovers. Remember, cooking is about experimenting. Use what you like and have on hand. Enjoy your time in the kitchen and make this dish your own!

Creamy Ground Beef Gnocchi Delight

A delicious and creamy dish featuring ground beef, gnocchi, and fresh vegetables.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Course Main Course
Cuisine Italian
Servings 4

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 package gnocchi (16 oz)
  • 1 medium onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 cup fresh or frozen spinach
  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning blend
  • to taste Salt and freshly ground black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons extra-virgin olive oil
  • for serving Freshly grated Parmesan cheese
  • for garnish Fresh basil leaves

Instructions
 

  • Cook the Gnocchi: Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions. Once the gnocchi float to the surface, allow them to cook for an additional 1-2 minutes. Drain thoroughly and set aside.
  • Sauté the Onion and Garlic: In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for approximately 3-4 minutes, or until the onions become translucent and soft. Next, stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.
  • Brown the Ground Beef: Increase the heat to medium-high. Add the ground beef to the skillet, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the meat is nicely browned. Season with salt, black pepper, and the Italian seasoning blend.
  • Create the Creamy Sauce: Lower the heat back to medium. Carefully pour in the beef broth and heavy cream, stirring thoroughly to combine all the ingredients. Allow the mixture to simmer for around 5 minutes to thicken the sauce slightly.
  • Add Spinach and Tomatoes: Fold in the spinach and halved cherry tomatoes, cooking for an additional 3-4 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the tomatoes are softened and fragrant.
  • Combine with Gnocchi: Gently incorporate the cooked gnocchi into the creamy beef sauce, making sure each piece is well coated. Allow it to simmer on low heat for another 2 minutes for flavors to meld.
  • Serve: Remove the skillet from the heat and serve the dish immediately. Top with a generous sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and garnish with fresh basil leaves for a touch of color and flavor.

Notes

Serve in wide-rimmed bowls and drizzle with extra olive oil for added richness.
Keyword beef, creamy, gnocchi, pasta, spinach

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