If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, you’ve found it. This One-Pan Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Recipe brings together tender, pillowy gnocchi with rich, savory Italian sausage in a luscious, dreamy sauce that’s both comforting and elegant. It’s an easy, fuss-free dinner perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy weekend treat, with every bite bursting with flavor and just the right amount of creaminess. Believe me, once you make this dish, it’ll quickly become one of your go-to recipes for satisfying your comfort food cravings.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this One-Pan Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Recipe, you only need a handful of simple but essential ingredients. Each plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, creating vibrant color, or ensuring a silky texture, making the dish irresistible from start to finish.
- Olive oil: The base fat that helps brown the sausage and adds a fruity richness.
- Italian sausage (1 pound): Packed with herbs and spices, it’s the dish’s savory star.
- Garlic (3 cloves, minced): Provides a fragrant, aromatic depth that wakes up the palate.
- Red pepper flakes (1/2 teaspoon, optional): Adds a gentle kick of heat for extra excitement.
- Gnocchi (16 ounces): Soft, tender potato dumplings that soak up all the delicious sauce.
- Chicken broth (1 cup): Adds savory moisture and helps cook the gnocchi perfectly.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): The secret to that rich, velvety, creamy sauce you’ll adore.
- Grated Parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Adds a salty, nutty umami punch and helps thicken the sauce.
- Baby spinach (2 cups): Brings freshness, vibrant green color, and a mild earthy flavor.
- Salt and black pepper: To season and brighten every bite just right.
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional): For a fresh, herbal garnish that lifts the dish.
How to Make One-Pan Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Sausage to Perfection
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add your sausage, breaking it apart with a wooden spoon as it browns. This step is where much of the flavor develops—those golden bits at the bottom of the pan will infuse the sauce with savory goodness. Cook until the sausage is fully browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes
Once your sausage is beautifully browned, add minced garlic and the optional red pepper flakes. Sauté everything together for about 1 minute until the garlic becomes fragrant and starts to melt into the sausage, giving the dish a lovely kick and aroma that will make your kitchen smell amazing.
Step 3: Incorporate Gnocchi and Liquids
Now it’s time to pour in the gnocchi, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir everything gently to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then reduce the heat to medium. Let it cook uncovered for 7 to 9 minutes, stirring occasionally, so the gnocchi absorb the flavors and the sauce thickens up nicely. This is the moment the whole dish comes together into something super comforting and creamy.
Step 4: Finish with Parmesan and Spinach
Once the sauce has thickened and the gnocchi are tender, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and baby spinach. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts into the sauce, making it even creamier and more indulgent. Finally, season with salt and black pepper to taste — now you’re ready to enjoy!
How to Serve One-Pan Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh chopped parsley is a simple but stunning way to finish this dish. It adds a fresh, slightly peppery note that contrasts wonderfully with the rich cream sauce. You can also sprinkle a little extra grated Parmesan for those who love an even cheesier experience.
Side Dishes
This hearty recipe pairs beautifully with light, crisp sides to balance the richness. Consider a green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread is perfect for mopping up any leftover sauce—don’t let any of that deliciousness go to waste!
Creative Ways to Present
For a special occasion, serve your One-Pan Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Recipe in individual shallow bowls and garnish with edible flowers or microgreens. You can also add a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of chili flakes for guests who enjoy spice. If you want to mix things up, toss in some sun-dried tomatoes or sautéed mushrooms to enhance texture and flavor.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The sauce will continue to soak into the gnocchi, making them softer, but the flavors will intensify, so it’s still delicious the next day. Consume within 2 to 3 days for the best taste and texture.
Freezing
This recipe freezes well, making it a fantastic meal prep option. Cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. Keep in mind that frozen and thawed gnocchi might be a little softer than fresh, but the creamy sauce will remain decadent and satisfying.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and add a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much. This will bring back the creamy texture and keep your dish tasting fresh and comforting.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can substitute with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage alternatives. Just adjust cooking time if needed to ensure it’s fully cooked.
Is it possible to make this dish gluten-free?
Yes, simply use gluten-free gnocchi and check that your sausage does not contain any gluten-containing fillers or seasonings. This recipe is naturally gluten-free with the right ingredients.
Can I make the sauce lighter?
For a lighter version, replace heavy cream with half-and-half or evaporated milk. The dish will still be creamy but with less richness and fat.
What can I add to enhance the flavor?
Mushrooms, sun-dried tomatoes, or caramelized onions make fantastic additions to add depth and complexity. Feel free to experiment with your favorite vegetables or herbs.
How do I know when the gnocchi is done?
The gnocchi is tender when it feels soft to the bite but not mushy. It should absorb some of the sauce while still holding its shape—usually about 7 to 9 minutes of simmering as per the instructions.
Final Thoughts
This One-Pan Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Recipe is one of those magical meals that feels luxurious without fuss or fancy techniques. It’s perfect for sharing with loved ones or treating yourself after a long day. I hope you enjoy making it as much as I do because it’s pure comfort on a plate that never fails to bring smiles around the table. Give it a try, and get ready to have a new favorite go-to dinner!
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One-Pan Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
This One-Pan Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Recipe is a delicious and comforting Italian-American main course that combines tender gnocchi, savory Italian sausage, and a rich creamy sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, this dish cooks entirely on the stovetop, making cleanup a breeze without sacrificing flavor.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 package (16 ounces) shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 cups baby spinach
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked, about 6–8 minutes.
- Sauté Garlic and Red Pepper Flakes: Add the minced garlic and red pepper flakes (if using) to the skillet. Sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, stirring frequently to avoid burning.
- Add Gnocchi and Liquids: Stir in the gnocchi, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
- Simmer and Thicken the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium and cook uncovered for 7–9 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce has thickened to a creamy consistency.
- Add Cheese and Spinach: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and baby spinach. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts, stirring gently.
- Season and Serve: Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Serve the dish hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.
Notes
- You can substitute turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a different protein option.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half or evaporated milk instead of heavy cream.
- Adding mushrooms or sun-dried tomatoes will enhance the depth of flavor.
