Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Recipe

Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Recipe

This Creamy Sausage Gnocchi is a quick, hearty meal combining pillowy gnocchi with savory sausage in a creamy sauce. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (potato or your preferred type)
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (optional)
• 1/4 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• 1 tbsp olive oil

Instructions:

1. Cook the Gnocchi:

• Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions (usually 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface). Drain and set aside.

2. Brown the Sausage:

• In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon olive oil over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks. Brown the sausage completely, about 5-7 minutes, then transfer to a plate and set aside.

3. Sauté Onion and Garlic:

• In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and cook for 3-4 minutes until softened. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another 1 minute until fragrant.

4. Deglaze and Make the Sauce:

• Pour in the chicken broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Stir in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Let it cook for 2-3 minutes to thicken slightly.

5. Combine and Add Spinach:

• Stir the cooked sausage back into the skillet, followed by the Parmesan cheese. Stir until the cheese melts and the sauce thickens.
• If using spinach, add it to the sauce and stir until wilted.

6. Finish with Gnocchi:

• Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, stirring gently to coat it with the creamy sausage sauce. Let everything simmer together for another 2-3 minutes.

7. Season and Serve:

• Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes. Serve hot with extra Parmesan if desired.

Tips:

• For a lighter version: Swap out the heavy cream for half-and-half or milk.
• Add veggies: You can add other vegetables like mushrooms, peas, or zucchini for extra nutrients.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of cream or broth to loosen the sauce.

This Creamy Sausage Gnocchi is a comforting and flavorful dish that’s ideal for a busy weeknight or a special dinner!