Slow Cooker Shredded Beef Gnocchi is a comforting and hearty dish that's perfect for family dinners. It combines tender, slow-cooked beef with the pillowy texture of gnocchi, making it a pleasing meal for both kids and adults. This dish originates from the classic pairing of beef and potatoes but is given a slight twist with the Italian gnocchi, merging comfort food traditions beautifully. It’s great for busy days because the slow cooker does all the hard work, leaving you more time to spend with your loved ones.

This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh garden salad and some garlic bread. The salad adds a nice crunch and a refreshing burst of flavor, while the garlic bread helps to soak up all the savory juices from the shredded beef. Alternatively, you could serve it with steamed green beans or a side of roasted vegetables for a more balanced meal.

Servings: 6

2 pounds beef chuck roast
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 large onion, chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup beef broth
1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon Worcestershire sauce
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried rosemary
Salt and pepper to taste
1 pound gnocchi
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the beef chuck roast on all sides until browned, about 4-5 minutes per side.

2. Place the seared roast in your slow cooker. Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, beef broth, diced tomatoes, Worcestershire sauce, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.

3. Cover and cook on low for 8 hours or until the beef is tender and shreds easily with a fork.

4. About 30 minutes before serving, cook the gnocchi according to the package directions. Drain and set aside.

5. Using two forks, shred the beef directly in the slow cooker. Add the cooked gnocchi to the slow cooker and stir to combine with the shredded beef and sauce.

6. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese on top and, if desired, garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.

For a heartier vegetable component, consider adding carrots or mushrooms to the slow cooker along with the beef. If you have picky eaters, you can puree the tomatoes and onions before adding them to the dish to create a smoother sauce. To make this dish spicy, add a teaspoon of red pepper flakes when adding the other spices. This dish also works well with different types of pasta if gnocchi isn't available!

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