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One Pan Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Chicken Sausage Recipe

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4.4 from 28 reviews

This one pan creamy tomato gnocchi with chicken sausage is a comforting and easy weeknight dinner that combines tender gnocchi with protein-packed chicken sausage, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy tomato sauce. Ready in just 35 minutes, this dish is perfect for a family meal full of flavorful Italian-inspired ingredients.

  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: Serves 4

Ingredients

Protein

  • 4 to 5 chicken sausages, sliced (Italian or Spicy Italian)

Vegetables & Aromatics

  • 1 shallot, diced
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or substitute 1 cup frozen thawed peas)
  • ¼ cup basil leaves, julienned

Pantry Staples & Dairy

  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided
  • ¼ cup tomato paste
  • 1 ¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth, plus more as needed
  • ½ cup heavy cream or full fat coconut milk
  • 1 pound gnocchi (or cauliflower gnocchi)
  • 1-2 ounces grated Parmesan cheese, plus more to garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the chicken sausage: Place a large skillet over medium heat and add in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once warm, add the sliced chicken sausages and sauté until golden brown, about 3 to 5 minutes per side. Transfer the browned sausages to a large plate and set aside.
  2. Sauté aromatics: Add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet over medium heat. Add the diced shallots, minced garlic, and ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Cook for about 3 to 4 minutes until the shallots are tender and fragrant.
  3. Add seasoning and tomato paste: Stir in the Italian seasoning and tomato paste. Cook for 1 minute, allowing the tomato paste to deepen in color and develop a richer flavor.
  4. Create the sauce: Slowly pour in the low-sodium chicken broth followed by the heavy cream or coconut milk. Add the remaining ½ teaspoon kosher salt. Stir everything to combine well.
  5. Cook the gnocchi: Stir in the gnocchi and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook while stirring occasionally until the gnocchi is tender and cooked through, about 3 to 5 minutes.
  6. Add spinach and sausage: Incorporate the chopped spinach and cooked chicken sausage back into the skillet. Cook for an additional minute, stirring until the spinach wilts.
  7. Finish with cheese: Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and evenly combined. If you prefer a creamier sauce, add a splash or two of chicken broth to adjust consistency.
  8. Garnish and serve: Remove from heat and garnish with julienned basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately, optionally with garlic bread for dipping into the delicious sauce.

Notes

  • You can use cauliflower gnocchi as a low-carb alternative to regular gnocchi.
  • Substitute full-fat coconut milk for heavy cream to make this dish dairy-free.
  • Italian or spicy Italian chicken sausages work best for flavor, but any chicken sausage variety can be used.
  • If you prefer a saucier texture, add more chicken broth during cooking to reach your desired consistency.
  • This dish pairs wonderfully with a side of garlic bread or a fresh green salad.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Dinner
  • Method: Stovetop
  • Cuisine: Italian