Introduction
This hearty and delicious Italian Sausage Gnocchi Skillet brings together the succulent flavors of savory sausage, pillowy gnocchi, earthy mushrooms, and fresh spinach, creating a comforting meal perfect for a cozy night in. This one-pan recipe is not only easy to prepare but also delivers a satisfying blend of textures and flavors that make it an ideal weeknight dinner.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
300g Italian sausage, casings removed
500g potato gnocchi
200g mushrooms, sliced
2 cloves garlic, minced
150g fresh spinach
200ml heavy cream
100g grated Parmesan cheese
15ml olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Optional: red pepper flakes for spice
30ml chicken broth or water
Prep Time
10 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
This comforting Italian Sausage Gnocchi Skillet is sure to become a favorite, combining the robust flavors of Italian cooking with the simplicity of a one-pan meal. Enjoy this dish as a satisfying dinner, perfect for sharing with family or friends.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Italian Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, releasing a savory aroma that fills the kitchen. Once cooked, remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
Step 2: Sauté the Mushrooms and Garlic
In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms. Allow them to cook for about 5 minutes until they soften and release their earthy scent. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute, enhancing the dish with its fragrant notes.
Step 3: Add Gnocchi and Chicken Broth
Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, then add the potato gnocchi. Pour in the chicken broth, which will create steam to help cook the gnocchi while keeping it from sticking together. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi becomes tender, soaking up the flavors around it.
Step 4: Incorporate Heavy Cream and Spinach
Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well to combine, allowing it to simmer gently for a couple of minutes. This process should transform your skillet into a creamy, velvety mixture. Add the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts, bringing a bright, fresh green color to your dish.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan Cheese
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, which will melt into the dish and thicken the sauce to create a rich and comforting texture. Season it with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes, if desired, to bring out all the flavors beautifully.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Serve the dish immediately, garnishing it with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra kick. The presentation should be inviting, with vibrant greens and creamy sauce enveloping the gnocchi.
Notes
Ingredient Adjustments
You can substitute the Italian sausage with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter version, or try spicy sausage for an extra kick.
Vegetable Variations
Feel free to add other vegetables, such as bell peppers or zucchini, for added color and nutrition.
Cheese Options
If you prefer a different cheese, mozzarella or ricotta can work well to create a different texture while maintaining creaminess.
Storage Instructions
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove with a little extra cream or broth to restore creaminess.
Cook Techniques
Searing
Searing the sausage at the beginning creates a flavorful crust and enhances the overall taste of the dish. It’s essential to cook it until browned for the best flavor.
Sautéing
Sautéing the mushrooms and garlic brings out their natural flavors and aromas. Cooking them until softened ensures they blend well with the other ingredients.
Simmering
Simmering the gnocchi in chicken broth helps to cook them evenly and adds moisture to the dish. This technique prevents sticking and ensures a tender texture.
Combining
Adding heavy cream and Parmesan cheese at low heat produces a creamy sauce that clings to the gnocchi and other ingredients, making the dish rich and satisfying.
Seasoning
Seasoning with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes at the end allows you to adjust the flavor to your personal taste, enhancing the overall dish.
FAQ
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute Italian sausage with any other type of sausage, such as chicken, turkey, or vegan sausage, depending on your preference.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While it’s best enjoyed fresh, you can prepare the components ahead of time and combine them when ready to serve. Store in the refrigerator and reheat gently.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if you want a lighter version or to make it dairy-free.
Can I add other vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or kale to customize the dish further.
Is this dish suitable for freezing?
Yes, you can freeze the dish, but the texture of the gnocchi might change slightly upon reheating. Store it in an airtight container for up to three months.
Conclusion
This Italian Sausage Gnocchi Skillet is a hearty and flavorful dish that combines the richness of Italian sausage with the comfort of gnocchi, all enhanced by the earthiness of mushrooms and the freshness of spinach. It’s a perfect meal for any night, offering a satisfying blend of textures and tastes that will please everyone at the table. Quick, delicious, and comforting, this skillet dish is a great addition to your dinner rotation.
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Italian Sausage Gnocchi Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set it aside.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced mushrooms and cook for about 5 minutes until they soften. Stir in the minced garlic and let it cook for an additional minute.
- Return the cooked sausage to the skillet and add the potato gnocchi along with the chicken broth. Stir occasionally for about 5 minutes until the gnocchi becomes tender.
- Reduce the heat to low and add the heavy cream to the skillet. Stir well to combine and allow it to simmer gently for a couple of minutes. Add the fresh spinach and cook until it wilts.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese, seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve immediately, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese.
