Creamy Tomato Sausage Gnocchi

A comforting, rich weeknight dinner featuring pillowy gnocchi, savory Italian sausage, and a velvety tomato-cream sauce.

I enjoy making this dish when I want a satisfying meal that feels indulgent yet comes together without hassle.

Ingredients

• Pasta & 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 & 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

Keeps spices within easy reach while cooking, helping you season dishes quickly during everyday meal prep.

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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.

Keeps spices within easy reach while cooking, helping you season dishes quickly during everyday meal prep.

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Keeps spices within easy reach while cooking, helping you season dishes quickly during everyday meal prep.

Check price on Amazon

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This recipe always reminds me of cozy family dinners enjoyed on busy weeknights together.

Serving Suggestions

Pair this dish with a crisp green salad and a glass of Chianti for a complete meal.

Variations

Try substituting Italian chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option or go vegetarian by using plant-based sausage and adding extra veggies.

Storage Tips

Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheat well on the stove or in the microwave.

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Provides cushioned support while cooking, washing dishes, and standing longer during meal preparation.

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This creamy tomato and sausage gnocchi is a quick comforting meal perfect any night of the week.

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I cook the gnocchi properly?

Boil gnocchi in salted water until they float to the surface, usually 2–3 minutes, then drain immediately to prevent overcooking.

→ Can I substitute the Italian sausage?

Yes, chicken or turkey sausage works well for a lighter flavor, or use plant-based alternatives for a vegetarian option.

→ How can I make the sauce creamier?

Simmer heavy cream gently with crushed tomatoes to create a smooth, rich texture; avoid boiling to prevent curdling.

→ Is it necessary to add spinach?

Spinach is optional but adds a fresh, vibrant element that balances the richness of the sauce nicely.

→ What herbs complement this dish best?

Fresh basil and dried oregano bring aromatic depth, enhancing both the sauce and overall flavor profile.