Save A comforting, rich weeknight dinner featuring pillowy gnocchi, savory Italian sausage, and a velvety tomato-cream sauce.
This recipe quickly became a family favorite because of its simple preparation and comforting flavors that everyone enjoys.
Ingredients
- Pasta and Dairy: 500 g (1 lb) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade), 100 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream, 40 g (1/4 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- Meats: 300 g (10 oz) Italian sausage (mild or spicy) casings removed
- Vegetables: 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes, 100 g (3.5 oz) baby spinach (optional), 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (plus extra for garnish)
- Oils and Seasonings: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional), Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
- Step 2:
- Meanwhile heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add the sausage breaking it up with a spoon and cook for 45 minutes until browned and cooked through.
- Step 3:
- Add the chopped onion and cook until softened about 3 minutes Stir in the garlic oregano and chili flakes cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Pour in the crushed tomatoes add salt and pepper to taste and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Stir in the heavy cream and reduce heat to low Simmer gently for 23 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
- Step 6:
- Add the spinach (if using) and basil stirring until the spinach wilts.
- Step 7:
- While the sauce simmers cook the gnocchi according to package directions until they float to the surface (about 23 minutes).
- Step 8:
- Drain the gnocchi and add them directly to the sauce Toss gently to coat and heat through for 12 minutes.
- Step 9:
- Stir in the Parmesan cheese adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot garnished with extra basil.
Save This dish brings the family together especially on busy weeknights when a hearty meal is appreciated by all.
Notes
Substitute Italian chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option Add sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers for extra flavor For a vegetarian version use plant-based sausage or omit the sausage and add extra veggies Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of Chianti.
Required Tools
Large pot Large skillet Wooden spoon or spatula Colander Chefs knife and cutting board
Nutritional Information
Calories 530 Total Fat 29 g Carbohydrates 49 g Protein 19 g
Save 
This creamy tomato and sausage gnocchi recipe is a flavorful and easy meal that feels like a warm hug in a bowl.
Cooking Q&A
- → How do I cook gnocchi perfectly?
Boil gnocchi in salted water until they float to the surface, typically 2-3 minutes, then drain immediately to avoid overcooking.
- → Can I substitute Italian sausage with other meats?
Yes, chicken or turkey sausage can be used for a lighter alternative without compromising flavor.
- → What is the best way to make the sauce creamy?
Stir in heavy cream after simmering the tomato base, then reduce heat to gently thicken the sauce and create a velvety texture.
- → Is it possible to add vegetables to this dish?
Absolutely, baby spinach is a great addition, and sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers can enhance flavor and texture.
- → How should this dish be served for best flavor?
Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and freshly grated Parmesan, alongside a crisp green salad and red wine for a balanced meal.