If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug in a bowl, look no further than the One Pan Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe. This delightful meal blends pillowy gnocchi with rich, savory sausage and a luscious creamy tomato sauce, all cooked in one skillet for ease without sacrificing flavor. It’s comfort food turned elegant, perfect for busy weeknights or sharing with friends during cozy dinners at home.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple, fresh ingredients is key to nailing this recipe. Each component plays an important role, whether it’s adding depth, creaminess, or that burst of herbal freshness that ties everything together.
- Italian sausage (16 ounces): Choose a good-quality sausage for bold, flavorful bites throughout the dish.
- Small onion (1/2, finely chopped): Adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory sausage.
- Garlic cloves (4, minced): Infuses the sauce with its unmistakable aromatic punch.
- Dry white wine (1/3 cup): A splash of wine brightens the sauce and lends a gentle acidity.
- Canned diced tomatoes with juices (14 ounces): Provides body and a touch of natural sweetness to the creamy sauce.
- Heavy/whipping cream (1 cup): The secret to that luscious, velvety texture every gnocchi lover dreams of.
- Uncooked potato gnocchi (1 pound): Soft, pillowy pasta dumplings that soak up the sauce beautifully.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese (1/2 cup): Brings a savory, salty finish and helps thicken the sauce slightly.
- Fresh basil (a handful, torn): Adds brightness and a fresh herbal note to the rich dish.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that highlight and balance all flavors.
How to Make One Pan Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Onion
Start by heating a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and finely chopped onion, cooking them together for about 7 to 10 minutes until the sausage is nicely browned and the onion has softened. This step builds the flavor foundation, as browning unlocks a wonderful savory aroma you’ll love filling your kitchen.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Next, toss in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds. Garlic cooks quickly, releasing fragrant oils that enhance the savory profile of the dish without overpowering it, so keep a close eye to prevent burning.
Step 3: Deglaze with White Wine
Pour in the dry white wine, allowing it to cook for around one minute. This not only lifts the flavorful bits stuck to the skillet’s bottom but also adds a touch of acidity that balances the richness to come.
Step 4: Create the Creamy Sauce Base
Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, heavy cream, and uncooked potato gnocchi. When the mixture starts bubbling, cover the pan and turn the heat down to medium. Let it simmer gently for 5 minutes so the gnocchi can absorb the flavors and begin to soften.
Step 5: Finish Cooking and Thicken the Sauce
Remove the lid and give everything a good stir. Continue to cook for a few more minutes until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce has thickened beautifully. This step ensures each bite is perfectly creamy and satisfying.
Step 6: Add Cheese, Basil, and Seasonings
Finally, stir in freshly grated parmesan cheese and torn basil leaves, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. The cheese melts into the sauce for an irresistible savory note, while basil adds a fresh herbal lift that rounds out the flavors perfectly.
How to Serve One Pan Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate this dish visually and taste-wise, consider topping it with additional parmesan shavings and a sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper. A few more torn basil leaves scattered on top will brighten the dish with their vivid green color and fresh aroma.
Side Dishes
This rich, one-skillet meal pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creamy sauce. Garlic bread or crusty Italian bread are perfect for mopping up every last bit of the sauce, making your meal even more satisfying.
Creative Ways to Present
For an attractive presentation, serve the gnocchi directly in the skillet to keep things rustic and cozy. Alternatively, plate individual portions garnished thoughtfully with basil and parmesan. If you’re hosting a casual dinner, use shallow bowls to hold the gnocchi and sauce, offering a comfort-food vibe that guests will adore.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
After enjoying your One Pan Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe, store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It will keep its flavor and texture nicely for up to 3 days, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner later in the week.
Freezing
While gnocchi tends to be best fresh, you can freeze leftovers if needed. Place cooled portions into a freezer-safe container or bag, removing as much air as possible. Frozen gnocchi dishes maintain quality for up to 1 month. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently.
Reheating
To reheat, warm the dish slowly in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. You can add a splash of cream or water if the sauce feels too thick. Avoid microwaving as it may cause gnocchi to become overly soft or gummy.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage can be a leaner substitute and will still add great flavor. Just be mindful of seasoning adjustments since they tend to be milder than pork sausage.
Is it necessary to use white wine in the recipe?
White wine adds acidity and complexity, but if you prefer not to use alcohol, you can substitute with chicken broth or even water plus a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes, simply omit the sausage and add extra mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative to maintain hearty texture and flavor in your One Pan Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe.
What type of gnocchi works best here?
Potato gnocchi is traditional and works beautifully since it becomes soft and pillowy in the creamy sauce. Avoid fresh gnocchi that might be too delicate or frozen gnocchi that takes longer to cook.
How can I adjust the spice level?
If you like heat, choose spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes during cooking. For a milder dish, stick with sweet Italian sausage and omit any extra pepper additions.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly magical about the One Pan Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe that makes every bite feel indulgent yet homey. It’s simplicity and comfort combined with just the right touch of elegance. I wholeheartedly encourage you to give this recipe a try—you might just find a new favorite weeknight dinner that everyone at the table will ask for again and again.
Print
One Pan Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This One Pan Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage is a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired dish featuring tender potato gnocchi cooked in a rich and creamy tomato sauce with savory Italian sausage, garlic, and fresh basil. Ready in just 30 minutes, this recipe combines sautéing and simmering for a hearty weeknight meal that requires minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Meat and Aromatics
- 16 ounces Italian sausage
- 1/2 small onion, chopped finely
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids and Dairy
- 1/3 cup dry white wine (e.g., Sauvignon Blanc)
- 1 (14 ounce) can diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1/2 cup freshly grated parmesan cheese
Main Ingredient
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
Herbs and Seasonings
- Handful fresh basil, torn
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage and Onion: In a skillet over medium-high heat, sauté the Italian sausage and finely chopped onion for 7-10 minutes until the sausage is lightly browned and cooked through, and the onion is softened.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the skillet and sauté for about 30 seconds to release its aroma without burning.
- Deglaze with Wine: Pour in the dry white wine and let it cook for about one minute, allowing the alcohol to evaporate and the flavors to meld.
- Combine Tomatoes, Cream, and Gnocchi: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices, the heavy cream, and the uncooked potato gnocchi. When the sauce starts bubbling again, cover the pan and reduce heat to medium. Cook for 5 minutes to soften the gnocchi.
- Simmer and Thicken Sauce: Uncover the pan, stir well, and continue cooking for a few more minutes until the gnocchi is tender and the sauce has thickened to your preference.
- Finish and Serve: Stir in the freshly grated parmesan cheese, torn basil leaves, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately while hot.
Notes
- You can use either sweet or spicy Italian sausage depending on your flavor preference.
- For a lighter option, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and cream, but the sauce will be less rich.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it simmer uncovered longer until the desired consistency is reached.
- Fresh basil can be replaced with dried basil, but add it earlier in the cooking process for better flavor infusion.
- Serve with additional parmesan cheese on the side for extra cheesiness.
