There’s something incredibly comforting about a warm, creamy dish that comes together effortlessly, and this Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage is exactly that. Perfect for a busy weeknight or even a cozy weekend meal, this dish combines the soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi with the savory richness of sausage and a luscious cream sauce. It’s a meal that’s both satisfying and indulgent, yet easy enough to prepare in no time.
The marriage of hearty sausage and tender gnocchi in a rich, creamy sauce is a flavor combination that will quickly become a family favorite. The best part? It only takes a few simple ingredients and a little bit of time to bring this dish together, making it an ideal choice when you’re craving something delicious without all the fuss.
If you’re looking for a comforting, crowd-pleasing dinner, this recipe fits the bill perfectly. Whether you’re new to cooking or an experienced chef, you’ll find that this creamy gnocchi with sausage is straightforward and fun to make, but still packed with flavors that will impress anyone at the dinner table.
The smooth cream sauce, combined with the depth of flavor from the sausage and the satisfying bite of the gnocchi, creates a balance of textures that’s simply irresistible. Best of all, this dish is versatile—whether you want to add a sprinkle of cheese, a bit of fresh herbs, or even some extra veggies, it’s easy to customize to suit your tastes.
Ready to create a comforting, easy, and indulgent meal? Let’s dive into how to make this Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage!
Ingredients for Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage
To make this rich and satisfying dish, you’ll need a few simple, high-quality ingredients. Each one plays a role in creating the perfect balance of creamy and savory flavors.
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Gnocchi – Opt for store-bought gnocchi, or if you’re feeling adventurous, make your own! These soft, pillowy dumplings will absorb the creamy sauce beautifully, making every bite comforting and delicious.
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Sausage – Choose a flavorful sausage that suits your taste. I recommend using Italian sausage for its bold, savory flavor. You can go for sweet or spicy, depending on your preference.
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Heavy Cream – This is what makes the sauce ultra-creamy and rich. It’s the key to creating that velvety smooth texture that coats the gnocchi perfectly.
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Parmesan Cheese – Freshly grated Parmesan adds an extra layer of depth and a touch of nuttiness to the dish.
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Olive Oil – You’ll use this to cook the sausage, giving it a nice sizzle and helping to build the flavor base.
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Garlic – Fresh garlic gives a fragrant, savory kick to the dish and enhances the cream sauce.
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Onion – A small onion adds a subtle sweetness and depth to the sausage and cream mixture.
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Spinach (optional) – For a bit of color and a nutritional boost, fresh spinach can be tossed into the sauce right before serving.
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Salt and Pepper – For seasoning and to balance the richness of the cream.
How to Make Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage
Now, let’s bring this delicious dish together! The process is quick and easy, but the result is a creamy, comforting meal that feels indulgent.
Step 1:
Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the olive oil, then crumble the sausage into the pan. Cook the sausage for about 5-7 minutes, breaking it apart as it cooks, until it’s browned and fully cooked through.
Step 2:
Add the chopped onion and garlic to the pan. Sauté for 2-3 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent and the garlic is fragrant.
Step 3:
Pour in the heavy cream and stir to combine. Bring it to a simmer, allowing the cream to thicken slightly, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, and continue to cook, stirring occasionally, until the cheese is melted and the sauce becomes smooth and creamy.
Step 4:
While the sauce is simmering, cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions. Usually, this involves boiling them in salted water until they float to the top, which should only take a few minutes.
Step 5:
Once the gnocchi is cooked, drain it and add it directly to the creamy sauce. Gently toss the gnocchi in the sauce, ensuring each piece is coated with the rich, creamy mixture. If you’re adding spinach, now’s the time to toss it in and cook for an additional minute until wilted.
Step 6:
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese if desired.
This creamy gnocchi with sausage is a meal that will leave everyone coming back for more!
How Long to Cook Gnocchi
Cooking gnocchi is a quick and easy process, but the key is to avoid overcooking them. Here’s how to ensure your gnocchi is perfectly tender every time:
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Fresh Gnocchi – If you’re using store-bought, fresh gnocchi, they typically cook in 2-3 minutes. Once they float to the surface of the water, they’re ready to go.
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Frozen Gnocchi – If you’re using frozen gnocchi, they will take about 3-4 minutes to cook, depending on the brand. As with fresh gnocchi, they are done once they rise to the surface.
Always keep an eye on them and taste one to make sure they’re tender, not mushy.
How to Store Leftovers
If you have any leftovers, here’s how to store them for future enjoyment:
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Refrigerator – Place any leftover creamy gnocchi with sausage in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 2 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating.
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Freezer – While gnocchi can be frozen, the cream sauce may change in texture. If you want to freeze the dish, place it in an airtight container and store it for up to 1 month. Thaw it in the fridge overnight before reheating on the stove. Add a bit of extra cream if the sauce needs to be loosened up.
Tips for Perfect Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage
Here are a few tips to ensure your creamy gnocchi with sausage comes out perfectly every time:
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Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi – Gnocchi can become mushy if cooked for too long. Once they float to the top, they’re ready to be drained and added to the sauce.
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Use Full-Fat Cream – For a rich, creamy texture, opt for full-fat heavy cream. This will give you the luxurious sauce you’re looking for.
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Customize Your Sausage – Feel free to switch up the sausage based on your taste preferences. For a milder version, use chicken sausage, or for more flavor, try spicy Italian sausage.
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Add Vegetables – For a more balanced meal, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, or zucchini to the sausage mixture. These additions bring more texture and flavor to the dish.
How to Make the Sauce Thicker or Thinner
If you find that your sauce is too thin, you can thicken it by letting it simmer for a few extra minutes, allowing the cream to reduce. On the other hand, if the sauce is too thick, simply add a splash of pasta water or a little more cream until it reaches your desired consistency.
Serve It with a Side
This creamy gnocchi with sausage can stand on its own, but it also pairs wonderfully with a simple side salad, garlic bread, or roasted vegetables for a complete meal. A sprinkle of fresh herbs, like basil or parsley, on top can add a fresh finish to the dish.
Enjoy your creamy gnocchi with sausage, and don’t be afraid to get creative with the ingredients to make it your own!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Yes, absolutely! While Italian sausage is a popular choice due to its rich flavor, you can substitute it with any other type of sausage you prefer. Chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even mild pork sausage would work well. If you prefer a spicy kick, try using chorizo or a spicier sausage variety.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prep parts of the dish ahead of time. You can cook the sausage mixture and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days. However, it’s best to cook the gnocchi and combine everything right before serving to ensure the gnocchi maintains its soft, pillowy texture. Reheating the whole dish may result in slightly firmer gnocchi, but it will still be delicious!
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes! To make a vegetarian version, you can replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or other hearty vegetables like mushrooms, which provide a savory, umami flavor. You could also add some roasted or grilled vegetables to fill in for the sausage, keeping the dish both satisfying and flavorful.
4. How do I prevent the cream sauce from curdling?
To avoid curdling, be sure to simmer the cream on low heat, and don’t let it boil. High heat can cause the cream to separate. Also, add the cream slowly and stir constantly to ensure it integrates smoothly with the sausage mixture. If the sauce thickens too quickly, you can always add a little extra cream or some pasta water to adjust the consistency.
These questions cover some of the most common concerns when making creamy gnocchi with sausage. Don’t hesitate to experiment with flavors or make adjustments to suit your preferences. Enjoy your meal!
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Delicious Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage – Quick & Easy Recipe!
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
This Creamy Gnocchi with Sausage is a simple yet indulgent dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its rich, velvety sauce and tender gnocchi, it’s a comforting meal that comes together quickly. Whether you’re serving it for dinner on a busy weeknight or as a treat for guests, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
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1 pound (450g) gnocchi (fresh or frozen)
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1 pound (450g) Italian sausage (or any sausage of choice)
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1 cup heavy cream
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1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
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1 tbsp olive oil
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2 cloves garlic, minced
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1 small onion, diced
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2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
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Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, crumbling it as it cooks. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until browned and fully cooked.
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Add the onion and garlic, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until the onion softens.
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Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a simmer. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens.
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Meanwhile, cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, then drain and add to the skillet with the cream sauce.
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If using spinach, stir it into the skillet now and cook until wilted.
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Season with salt and pepper to taste, then serve warm.
Notes
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For added crunch, sprinkle some toasted breadcrumbs or nuts on top.
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This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 2 days. Reheat gently over low heat.
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Feel free to switch the sausage with chicken, turkey, or vegetarian sausage for a different twist.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes