Sausage And Gnocchi Skillet

If you’re searching for a warm, satisfying dish that combines savory sausage with pillowy gnocchi all cooked together in one pan, this Sausage And Gnocchi Skillet is your new go-to recipe. It’s quick, loaded with flavor, and perfect for a cozy dinner tonight. With just a handful of simple ingredients and minimal effort, you’ll have a meal that feels homemade and gourmet at the same time. Whether you’re feeding a family or craving something hearty for yourself, this skillet recipe checks all the boxes for comfort and convenience.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pan convenience: Everything cooks together in one skillet, making cleanup a breeze without sacrificing flavor.
• Quick preparation: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinners.
• Hearty and filling: The combination of protein-packed sausage and soft gnocchi creates a satisfying texture and taste.
• Versatile and customizable: You can easily add veggies, spices, or cheese to suit your taste.
• Family-friendly flavors: Mild sausage and tender gnocchi appeal to both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Sausage And Gnocchi Skillet uses simple, staple ingredients that blend beautifully to create a balanced, flavorful dish. Each ingredient plays an important role, from the savory sausage bringing richness to the tender gnocchi that absorbs every bit of sauce.

• Sausage: Choose mild or spicy Italian sausage to build the base flavor of the dish.
• Gnocchi: Store-bought potato gnocchi makes this recipe quick without compromising taste.
• Garlic: Adds a punch of savory aroma and depth to the skillet.
• Onion: Provides sweetness and texture that complements the sausage perfectly.
• Bell peppers: Adds a pop of color and fresh flavor to brighten the dish.
• Heavy cream or half-and-half: Creates a luscious, creamy sauce binding all the ingredients.
• Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top for that irresistible, cheesy finish.
• Olive oil: Used for sautéing to bring out the ingredients’ natural flavors.
• Salt and pepper: Essential seasonings to enhance every bite.
• Fresh herbs: Basil or parsley lend freshness and a beautiful finishing touch.

Variations for Sausage And Gnocchi Skillet

One of the great things about this Sausage And Gnocchi Skillet recipe is how simple it is to customize. Whether you’d prefer dairy-free options, want to add extra veggies, or like your meals with a spicy kick, these variations can help tailor it exactly to your liking.

• Veggie-packed: Add mushrooms, spinach, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes for extra nutrients and texture.
• Spicy version: Swap mild sausage for hot Italian sausage, or add crushed red pepper flakes for heat.
• Dairy-free alternative: Use coconut cream or a plant-based milk and skip the cheese for a creamy vegan-friendly option.
• Cheese lover’s twist: Stir in mozzarella or goat cheese for a richer, melty texture.
• Herb variation: Experiment with thyme, oregano, or rosemary to switch up the flavor profile.

How to Make Sausage And Gnocchi Skillet

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, and cook until golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the sausage from the pan and set aside, leaving the flavorful drippings behind.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics and Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell peppers. Cook for 4-5 minutes until softened. Toss in minced garlic and sauté for another 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.

Step 3: Cook the Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi to the pan and cook, stirring frequently, for 3-4 minutes until they start to puff up and develop a slight golden crust. This adds a wonderful texture to the dish.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients and Add Cream

Return the cooked sausage to the skillet. Pour in the heavy cream and stir everything together. Let the mixture simmer gently for 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly and coats the gnocchi beautifully.

Step 5: Finish With Cheese and Herbs

Sprinkle in grated Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh herbs such as parsley or basil. Stir gently to combine, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm.

Pro Tips for Making Sausage And Gnocchi Skillet

• Choose quality sausage: Good-flavored sausage elevates this simple meal instantly.
• Don’t overcrowd the pan: Cook gnocchi in batches if needed to get a nice sear.
• Use fresh herbs: Chucking fresh herbs in at the end brightens the whole dish.
• Adjust the creaminess: Add more cream or broth to get the sauce consistency you love.
• Keep an eye on the garlic: It cooks fast and can turn bitter if burnt.

How to Serve Sausage And Gnocchi Skillet

Garnishes

Top your skillet with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil. A drizzle of good olive oil or red pepper flakes also adds a lovely finishing touch.

Side Dishes

This dish pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables to balance its richness. Crusty garlic bread on the side is perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve straight from the skillet for a rustic feel, or plate charming individual portions topped with microgreens or edible flowers for a special touch. Using colorful bowls or plates also enhances the cozy vibe.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place any leftovers in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight.

Freezing

You can freeze the cooked Sausage And Gnocchi Skillet in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Reheating

Reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stove with a splash of water or cream to loosen the sauce. Avoid microwaving directly from frozen to keep the gnocchi soft and pillowy.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?

Absolutely! Turkey sausage works well and creates a lighter dish, though the flavor will be slightly milder.

Do I need to boil the gnocchi before adding to the skillet?

If using store-bought gnocchi, you can cook it directly in the skillet as instructed; no boiling needed, which saves time.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Use vegetarian sausage or skip the sausage completely and add more vegetables like mushrooms or eggplant for heartiness.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Check the label on your gnocchi and sausage since some contain gluten; choosing gluten-free options makes this dish safe for gluten sensitivities.

How spicy is this dish?

The spice level depends on the type of sausage you choose; mild Italian sausage creates a gentle flavor while spicy varieties bring heat.

Final Thoughts

This Sausage And Gnocchi Skillet has quickly become one of my absolute favorite go-to recipes when comfort meets convenience. It’s easy to whip up, endlessly adaptable, and always delivers on flavor. Next time you want a satisfying, cozy meal that feels like a little hug on a plate, give this recipe a try and see why it might just become your new favorite too.

Related Posts

• Creamy fettuccine carbonara
• Air fryer chicken schnitzel
• Crock Pot Cajun Chicken Pasta

Print