Creamy One-Pot Sausage Gnocchi: A Comforting, Hearty Meal

Creamy one-pot sausage gnocchi is a dish that’s as satisfying as it is simple to make. With tender sausage, soft gnocchi, and a rich, creamy sauce, this dish is the perfect weeknight meal or a cozy weekend dinner. Packed with bold flavors and comforting textures, this one-pot wonder comes together in just 35 minutes, making it an ideal choice for busy evenings when you crave something hearty yet easy.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity. By using just one pot, you minimize cleanup while still creating a dish that’s bursting with flavor. The sausage adds a savory depth, while the creamy sauce balances everything perfectly. Gnocchi, with its pillowy softness, absorbs the flavors of the sauce beautifully, making each bite rich and satisfying. Whether you’re feeding a family or treating yourself to something special, this creamy sausage gnocchi will become a go-to in your recipe repertoire.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Easy

In just 35 minutes, you can have a flavorful, hearty dinner ready to serve—perfect for busy nights or when you want a satisfying meal without a lot of effort.

2. One-Pot Wonder

No need for multiple pots or pans—everything cooks in one pot, making cleanup a breeze. This recipe is ideal for anyone looking to save time on both cooking and cleaning.

3. Creamy and Hearty

The combination of heavy cream, chicken broth, and sausage creates a rich, velvety sauce that perfectly coats the gnocchi. The result is a deliciously comforting meal.

4. Flavorful and Savory

Italian seasoning, garlic, and sausage bring bold, savory flavors to the dish, while the fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese add a burst of freshness and richness on top.

5. Customizable

This dish is incredibly versatile—add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or mushrooms to enhance the flavor profile. You can also adjust the seasoning to your liking, making it as mild or as spicy as you prefer.

Ingredients

• Sausage
• Onion, chopped
• Garlic, minced
• Italian seasoning
• Diced tomatoes (canned)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Gnocchi
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Grated Parmesan cheese
• Fresh parsley, chopped

Variations

• Vegetable Additions: Add spinach, kale, or zucchini to the pot for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Spicy Version: Use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes to kick up the heat.
• Mushrooms: Add sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor that complements the creaminess of the sauce.
• Cheese Lovers: For an even richer flavor, stir in some shredded mozzarella or provolone cheese along with the Parmesan.
• Low-Carb: Swap the gnocchi for cauliflower gnocchi or zucchini noodles to make the dish lower in carbs.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

In a large pot, cook the sausage over medium heat until it’s browned and cooked through. Break it up into smaller pieces as it cooks.

Step 2: Add the Onion and Garlic

Add the chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot. Cook until the onion is soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.

Step 3: Stir in the Seasonings and Liquids

Stir in the Italian seasoning, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and heavy cream. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Add the Gnocchi

Once the sauce is simmering, add the gnocchi to the pot. Stir to combine, making sure the gnocchi is fully submerged in the sauce.

Step 5: Simmer

Let the dish simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the gnocchi is cooked through and tender. The sauce will thicken during this time.

Step 6: Season and Serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve the creamy sausage gnocchi in bowls, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley for added flavor and color.

Tips for Making the Recipe

• Don’t Overcrowd the Pot: Be sure to cook the sausage in a large enough pot to give it room to brown properly.
• Check Gnocchi Cooking Time: Gnocchi cooks quickly, so be careful not to overcook it. Once it floats to the top, it’s ready.
• Adjust the Creaminess: If you prefer a richer sauce, you can add a little more cream, or substitute half-and-half for a lighter version.
• Use Fresh Sausage: Fresh sausage links can be used in place of pre-cooked sausage. Just remove the casings and crumble the sausage into the pot.

How to Serve

Creamy one-pot sausage gnocchi is a complete meal in itself, but it pairs wonderfully with a side salad or some crusty bread to soak up any extra sauce. A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness of the dish, or serve it alongside roasted vegetables for extra flavor and texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover creamy sausage gnocchi in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat the dish in a pot over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.

Freezing

While the gnocchi will maintain its texture best when freshly made, you can freeze the leftovers for up to 1 month. Let the dish cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. To reheat, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the stovetop over low heat.

Reheating

Reheat the creamy sausage gnocchi gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent the sauce from separating. You can add a little more cream or broth to restore the sauce’s creamy consistency if needed.

FAQs

1. Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works just as well. Just add it directly to the pot without thawing.

2. Can I use a different type of sausage?

Absolutely! You can use chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based sausage for a different flavor or dietary preference.

3. Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can add vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for extra flavor and nutrition. Add them along with the onions and garlic for the best results.

4. Is it okay to make this ahead of time?

Yes, you can make this recipe ahead of time. Store it in the refrigerator and reheat it on the stove when ready to serve.

5. Can I make this dish spicy?

Yes, use spicy sausage or add red pepper flakes to increase the heat and make the dish spicier.

6. Can I use milk instead of heavy cream?

Milk can be used as a substitute for heavy cream, though the sauce may not be as rich or thick. You may want to add a bit of flour or cornstarch to thicken it if needed.

7. Can I make this dish dairy-free?

Yes, you can use dairy-free cream and omit the Parmesan cheese for a dairy-free version.

8. Can I use a different broth?

You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option, or even beef broth for a different depth of flavor.

9. How do I know when the gnocchi is done?

The gnocchi is done when it floats to the top of the pot. It cooks quickly, usually within 3-5 minutes, so keep an eye on it.

10. Can I freeze this dish?

Yes, this dish can be frozen for up to a month. Just reheat on the stovetop after thawing for the best results.

Conclusion

Creamy one-pot sausage gnocchi is a quick, comforting, and flavorful meal that is perfect for any night of the week. With its rich, creamy sauce, savory sausage, and tender gnocchi, it’s a dish that will satisfy your hunger and taste buds. Best of all, it’s a one-pot wonder, meaning minimal cleanup and more time spent enjoying your meal. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends, this recipe is sure to become a new favorite in your kitchen.

Print