Pin It A hearty, comforting skillet meal featuring pillowy gnocchi, earthy mushrooms, and savory sausage in a fragrant, creamy sauce—perfect for cozy evenings.
This recipe has become a staple in my home during colder months, bringing warmth and satisfaction after a long day.
Ingredients
- Italian sausage: 12 oz (340 g) mild or spicy, casings removed
- Mushrooms: 8 oz (225 g) cremini or button, cleaned and sliced
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Baby spinach: 2 cups (60 g), roughly chopped
- Thyme leaves: 1 tablespoon fresh or 1 teaspoon dried
- Potato gnocchi: 1 lb (450 g), shelf-stable or refrigerated
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Chicken broth: 1/2 cup (120 ml), low-sodium
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g), grated
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon olive oil. Sauté the onions for 2 minutes until softened, then add the mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are golden and their moisture has evaporated, about 5 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Add garlic and thyme to the skillet, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the gnocchi, letting it toast slightly for 2–3 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Pour in the chicken broth and cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return the sausage to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Step 6:
- Fold in the spinach and half the Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 7:
- Simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the gnocchi are tender.
- Step 8:
- Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan and serve hot.
Pin It This recipe always brings my family together around the dinner table, sharing stories and laughter.
Notes
Add a splash of white wine with the broth for extra depth. Pairs well with a crisp Chardonnay or a rustic red wine.
Required Tools
Large oven-proof skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, chef’s knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gnocchi), milk (cream, Parmesan), possibly egg (gnocchi), and pork (sausage). Double-check gnocchi and sausage for specific allergen content.
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This dish is perfect for meal prep and reheats beautifully, making weeknight dinners effortless.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead?
Yes, substituting turkey or chicken sausage offers a lighter alternative while preserving savory notes.
- → What types of mushrooms work best?
Cremini or button mushrooms provide earthiness and texture, but wild mushrooms can add extra depth.
- → How should I cook the gnocchi for best results?
Toast gnocchi slightly in the skillet before simmering to develop a light crispness and enhance flavor.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Omit the sausage and substitute with sautéed wild mushrooms and smoked paprika for a smoky, earthy profile.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Chardonnay or rustic red wine balances the rich creaminess and savory sausage elements nicely.