Creamy Tomato Sausage Gnocchi (Print Version)

A comforting dish featuring pillowy gnocchi, Italian sausage, and a smooth tomato-cream sauce.

# What You'll Need:

→ Pasta & Dairy

01 - 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
02 - 1/2 cup heavy cream
03 - 1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese

→ Meats

04 - 10 oz Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed

→ Vegetables

05 - 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
06 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
07 - 14 oz canned crushed tomatoes
08 - 3.5 oz baby spinach (optional)
09 - 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (plus extra for garnish)

→ Oils & Seasonings

10 - 2 tbsp olive oil
11 - 1/2 tsp dried oregano
12 - 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional)
13 - Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

# How to Make:

01 - Bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil.
02 - Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add Italian sausage and break apart with a spoon. Cook for 4 to 5 minutes until browned and cooked through.
03 - Add finely chopped onion to the skillet and cook until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in minced garlic, dried oregano, and chili flakes; cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
04 - Pour crushed tomatoes into the skillet, season with salt and pepper, and simmer for 5 minutes to develop flavor.
05 - Stir in heavy cream and reduce heat to low. Let simmer gently for 2 to 3 minutes until sauce becomes creamy.
06 - Mix in baby spinach, if using, and chopped fresh basil. Stir until spinach wilts.
07 - Meanwhile, cook gnocchi in boiling water according to package instructions until they float to the surface, approximately 2 to 3 minutes.
08 - Drain gnocchi and transfer directly to the sauce. Toss gently to coat and heat through for 1 to 2 minutes.
09 - Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese, adjust seasoning to taste, and serve immediately, garnished with additional basil if desired.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • Rich creamy tomato and sausage flavor
  • Quick and easy to prepare in 30 minutes
02 -
  • Substitute Italian chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option
  • Pair with a crisp green salad and a glass of Chianti
03 -
  • 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
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