Nothing beats a warm, creamy, and hearty meal that comes together effortlessly. This Creamy Sausage Gnocchi recipe is the ultimate comfort food, combining pillowy potato gnocchi, flavorful Italian sausage, and a rich, velvety sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a busy weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal, this dish is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser.
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Sausage Gnocchi
This Creamy Sausage Gnocchi recipe is a must-try for several reasons:
- Quick and Easy – Ready in just 30 minutes.
- One-Pan Meal – Minimal cleanup required!
- Rich and Creamy – A luxurious sauce made with heavy cream and Parmesan.
- Packed with Flavor – Italian sausage adds spice and depth.
- Customizable – Easily adaptable to different diets.
Health Benefits of Creamy Sausage Gnocchi
Although this dish is indulgent, it also provides some valuable nutrients:
Italian Sausage:
- High in protein for muscle repair.
- Rich in B vitamins for energy production.
Gnocchi:
- A great source of complex carbohydrates for sustained energy.
- Contains potassium, which supports heart health.
Spinach:
- Loaded with iron, fiber, and vitamins A & C.
- Supports immune function and digestion.
Parmesan Cheese:
- Aged cheese with a high amount of calcium and protein.
- Adds depth and umami flavor to the dish.
How to Make Creamy Sausage Gnocchi
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
- Kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 4 cups baby spinach
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan
Directions:
- Brown the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add Italian sausage and cook for 3-5 minutes, breaking it up as it browns. Drain excess fat.
- Sauté the Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
- Add Gnocchi and Liquids: Stir in gnocchi, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
- Simmer Until Tender: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until gnocchi is soft.
- Incorporate Spinach: Stir in baby spinach and cook until wilted (about 1-2 minutes).
- Finish with Cream & Cheese: Pour in heavy cream and stir until heated through. Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan.
- Serve Immediately: Garnish with extra Parmesan and enjoy!
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Servings: 4
Customization Ideas for Creamy Sausage Gnocchi
This recipe is versatile and can be tailored to suit various dietary needs and preferences:
- Make It Spicy: Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes.
- Vegetarian Version: Replace sausage with mushrooms or plant-based sausage.
- Low-Carb Alternative: Substitute gnocchi with cauliflower gnocchi.
- Extra Creamy: Add more heavy cream or cream cheese.
- Boost the Protein: Stir in cooked chicken or shrimp.
FAQs About Creamy Sausage Gnocchi
1. Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes! Shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi works perfectly. No need to boil it beforehand.
2. Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, but for best results, add the cream and spinach just before serving.
3. Can I freeze this dish?
While you can freeze it, the texture of gnocchi may change. Store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.
4. What can I serve with creamy sausage gnocchi?
This dish pairs well with garlic bread, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad.
5. How can I thicken the sauce?
If the sauce is too thin, let it simmer longer or stir in a cornstarch slurry (1 tsp cornstarch + 1 tbsp water).
6. Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! Try chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or chorizo for a twist.
Conclusion
Creamy Sausage Gnocchi is the perfect one-pan meal that is quick, delicious, and satisfying. Whether you’re craving a cozy dinner or a special meal for guests, this dish delivers a rich, creamy flavor with minimal effort. Give it a try, and enjoy a comforting, restaurant-quality meal at home!