Creamy Sausage Gnocchi – A Hearty and Flavorful One-Pan Meal

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:

  1. 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.
  2. Sauté the Garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook until fragrant (about 1 minute).
  3. Add Gnocchi and Liquids: Stir in gnocchi, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and black pepper to taste.
  4. Simmer Until Tender: Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until gnocchi is soft.
  5. Incorporate Spinach: Stir in baby spinach and cook until wilted (about 1-2 minutes).
  6. Finish with Cream & Cheese: Pour in heavy cream and stir until heated through. Remove from heat and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan.
  7. 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!

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