If you’re anything like us, you know the daily dinner dilemma all too well. The clock’s ticking, the fridge is looking a little bare, and the last thing you want is to spend a fortune or hours in the kitchen.
Enter the humble slow cooker—a true friend to busy Aussies, especially when paired with budget-friendly ALDI ingredients.
Recently, Aussie dad and home cook Brodie Liam—better known as That Aussie Dad—has been making waves online with his mouth-watering, wallet-friendly beef gnocchi recipe.
The best part? It’s hearty, delicious, and comes in at just $5.50 a serve. This could be your next go-to if you’re looking for a new family favourite that won’t break the bank.
Why slow cookers are a game-changer
Let’s face it: slow cookers are a godsend, especially for those of us who want to eat well without fuss.
They’re perfect for making big, comforting meals with minimal effort—just set, forget, and let the magic happen.
For retirees, empty-nesters, or anyone cooking for one or two, slow cookers also mean less time on your feet and more time doing what you love.
And with the cost of living on everyone’s mind, finding affordable and satisfying meals is more critical than ever.
ALDI’s range of quality, low-cost ingredients makes it even easier to whip up something special without splurging.
The recipe: Beef gnocchi made easy
Brodie’s beef gnocchi is a classic example of how simple ingredients can create something truly comforting. Here’s the gist:
Prep time: 10–15 minutes
Cook time: 4 hours on high or 8 hours on low in the slow cooker
Serves: 5 (with leftovers!)
Ingredients (all from ALDI):
– Beef (chuck or casserole cuts work best)
– Gnocchi (fresh or shelf-stable)
– Tinned tomatoes or passata
– Onion, garlic, and your favourite Italian herbs
– Optional: carrots, celery, spinach, or whatever veggies you have on hand
Method:
1. Pop the beef, chopped veggies, tomatoes, and seasonings into your slow cooker.
2. Set it and forget it – 4 hours on high or 8 hours on low.
3. In the last 20–30 minutes, stir in the gnocchi (if using fresh, 10–15 minutes is enough).
4. Serve with a sprinkle of parmesan, fresh basil, and a drizzle of olive oil. Sourdough on the side is highly recommended for mopping up that rich sauce!
No slow cooker? No worries!
Don’t have a slow cooker? You can still enjoy this dish. Simply brown the beef in a pot, add your sauce and veggies, and let it simmer gently on the stove or in the oven until the meat is tender. Cook the gnocchi separately according to the packet instructions, then combine at the end.
Customise to your taste
One of the joys of slow cooker meals is how adaptable they are. Brodie suggests swapping beef for lamb or chicken thighs, using sweet potato gnocchi for a twist, or tossing in a handful of spinach at the end for extra greens. It’s a forgiving recipe, so don’t be afraid to make it your own.
Why ALDI?
Aldi has become a favourite for many Australians looking to stretch their grocery budget without sacrificing quality. Brodie estimates the whole dish costs around $26.84 and easily feeds five—that’s about $5.50 per serve. Not bad for a slow-cooked feast that feels like a treat!
What people are saying
Brodie’s followers love this recipe, and many share rave reviews. One commenter said, ‘My house smells so damn good right now… can’t wait to taste it.’
‘Made this last night for dinner and AMAZING! Definitely will cook again,’ said another. ‘Yum, definitely making this,’ yet another commenter said.
Tips to elevate your slow cooker meals
Want to make your slow-cooked gnocchi even more special? Try these finishing touches:
– Freshly grated parmesan or pecorino
– Torn basil or parsley
– A drizzle of good olive oil
– Crusty bread for dipping
The benefits of batch cooking
Another bonus? This recipe makes enough for leftovers, which means less cooking (and cleaning) later in the week.
Batch cooking is a great way to save time and money, and slow cooker meals often taste even better the next day as the flavours develop.
Share your slow cooker secrets!
Have you tried Brodie’s beef gnocchi, or do you have your own budget-friendly slow cooker favourite? We’d love to hear your tips, tweaks, and success stories. Share your thoughts in the comments below – your advice could inspire someone else’s next delicious dinner!
Looking for more affordable, easy meal ideas? Stay tuned to YourLifeChoices for recipes, tips, and tricks to make your life simpler and tastier – no matter your age or budget.
Also read: Is the $8 IKEA breakfast really the cheapest meal? Australians weigh in
