Baked Gnocchi with Sausage: A Comforting One-Pan Dish for Any Occasion

When it comes to hearty, comforting meals that delight the whole family, Baked Gnocchi with Sausage checks all the boxes. This recipe combines tender gnocchi, savory Italian sausage, and creamy cheese into a baked masterpiece that’s both satisfying and easy to prepare. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or looking for a cozy dinner option, this dish will surely become a household favorite. Let’s dive into how you can make this delectable baked gnocchi at home!

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Why Baked Gnocchi with Sausage is the Ultimate Comfort Food

This dish is the epitome of comfort food because it blends flavors and textures that appeal to everyone. The chewy, pillowy gnocchi absorbs the creamy sauce perfectly, while the Italian sausage adds a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. Fresh spinach and cheese not only make the dish creamy and hearty but also bring a touch of freshness and richness to every bite.

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Ingredients Breakdown: What Makes This Recipe Special?

To create the perfect Baked Gnocchi with Sausage, each ingredient plays a pivotal role. Here’s why these ingredients shine:

Italian Sausage (¾ lb / 380 g)

The star of this dish, Italian sausage, provides a rich and savory flavor with a hint of spice. Opt for mild or spicy sausage, depending on your preference.

Diced Onion

The onion caramelizes while cooking, adding a sweet and savory base to the dish.

Garlic (1 tbsp / 3 cloves)

Garlic enhances the flavors of the sausage and sauce, giving the dish its signature aromatic profile.

Italian Seasoning (1 tsp)

A blend of herbs like oregano, basil, and thyme adds depth and authenticity to the dish.

All-Purpose Flour (1 tbsp)

A sprinkle of flour helps thicken the sauce, creating a creamy consistency.

Chicken Broth (1 cup)

This adds a savory, slightly salty base to the creamy sauce without overpowering it.

Heavy Whipping Cream (1 cup)

Rich and indulgent, heavy cream transforms the dish into a luxurious, velvety delight.

Gnocchi (1 lb / 500 g)

The gnocchi serves as the heart of this recipe, absorbing the creamy sauce while maintaining its soft, chewy texture.

Fresh Spinach (2 cups)

Adding spinach not only boosts the nutritional value but also balances the richness with a hint of earthiness.

Mozzarella and Parmesan Cheese

These cheeses melt beautifully, creating a gooey topping and enhancing the overall flavor.

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Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Baked Gnocchi

Follow these detailed steps to prepare your Baked Gnocchi with Sausage:

Step 1: Preheat the Oven

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F (175°C). This ensures even cooking and a perfectly baked dish.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage and Onion

In a large oven-safe skillet, cook the Italian sausage and diced onion over medium-high heat until browned. This step develops the base flavors for the dish.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasoning

Stir in the chopped garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Let this cook for about a minute to release the aromatics.

Step 4: Thicken the Sauce

Sprinkle flour evenly over the sausage mixture, stirring continuously for about a minute. This eliminates any raw flour taste and ensures a smooth sauce.

Step 5: Create the Creamy Base

Pour in the chicken broth and heavy whipping cream. Allow the mixture to simmer, stirring occasionally, until it thickens into a luscious sauce.

Step 6: Combine Gnocchi and Spinach

Add the uncooked gnocchi and chopped spinach to the skillet. Stir well to ensure every piece of gnocchi is coated in the creamy sauce.

Step 7: Add Cheese and Bake

Top the mixture with shredded mozzarella and grated Parmesan cheese. Cover the skillet with a lid or foil and bake in the preheated oven for 20 minutes. If you prefer a golden crust, uncover the skillet and broil for a few minutes.

Step 8: Rest and Serve

Let the dish cool for about 10 minutes after removing it from the oven. This allows the flavors to meld and makes serving easier.

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Tips for Customizing Your Baked Gnocchi Recipe

1. Experiment with Proteins

Swap the Italian sausage for chicken sausage, ground turkey, or even plant-based sausage for a unique twist.

2. Add Vegetables

For extra nutrition, consider adding mushrooms, bell peppers, or cherry tomatoes.

3. Use Alternative Cheeses

Try gouda, fontina, or gruyère for a gourmet touch.

4. Make It Gluten-Free

Substitute regular gnocchi with gluten-free gnocchi and use gluten-free flour.

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. One-Pan Convenience

This dish is prepared in a single oven-safe skillet, minimizing cleanup and maximizing flavor.

2. Quick and Easy

With just 20 minutes of baking time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights.

3. Versatile and Customizable

Whether you’re serving a family dinner or hosting a party, Baked Gnocchi with Sausage adapts to your needs.

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Serving Suggestions for Baked Gnocchi

Pair this dish with a crisp Caesar salad, warm garlic bread, or a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal. For beverages, a sparkling lemonade or non-alcoholic sangria complements the richness perfectly.

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Storage and Reheating Tips

Refrigeration:

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing:

This dish freezes well! Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container. It can be stored for up to 3 months.

Reheating:

Reheat in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 15-20 minutes, or microwave individual portions for 2-3 minutes.

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Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 35 minutes
• Total Time: 50 minutes
• Servings: 4
• Calories: ~450

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Conclusion

Baked Gnocchi with Sausage is more than just a dish; it’s an experience of comfort and indulgence that brings people together. The rich flavors of Italian sausage, creamy sauce, and melted cheese combined with the pillowy texture of gnocchi make this recipe a must-try. Whether you’re cooking for your family or impressing guests, this recipe will leave everyone craving more. So, gather your ingredients and enjoy the magic of this simple yet irresistible dish. Bon appétit!

Indulge in gourmet dining at home with our Cheesy Pull-Apart Christmas Tree Bread.

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