One-Pan Sausage Gnocchi Recipe

Cook Time: 10 minutes

Ingredients

This recipe was originally developed to serve 4 people. Adjustments to quantities can be made for larger or smaller servings, but cooking times remain the same.

• 2 teaspoons unsalted butter
• 1 (12-ounce) package garlic and herb chicken sausage, sliced diagonally
• 14 ounces frozen gnocchi
• 2 tablespoons chicken bone broth
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons heavy cream
• 1/2 cup torn fresh spinach

Directions

1. In a medium skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sliced sausage and cook, stirring occasionally, until it turns golden brown, about 5 minutes. Transfer the sausage to a plate and keep warm.
2. Add the frozen gnocchi and chicken broth to the same skillet. Cover and cook for 4 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to soften and absorb the flavors.
3. Stir in the heavy cream and minced garlic. Add the torn spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until the spinach has wilted.
4. Return the cooked sausage to the skillet, gently combining all the ingredients. Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.

Cooks Tip

Frozen gnocchi can be found at Trader Joes. Target offers a 4-cheese frozen gnocchi option that works beautifully in this dish.

Nutrition Facts (per serving)

• Calories: 280
• Total Fat: 14g (18% DV)
• Saturated Fat: 5g (25% DV)
• Cholesterol: 101mg (34% DV)
• Sodium: 720mg (31% DV)
• Total Carbohydrate: 14g (5% DV)
• Dietary Fiber: 1g (4% DV)
• Total Sugars: 1g
• Protein: 23g (47% DV)
• Vitamin C: 5mg (6% DV)
• Calcium: 61mg (5% DV)
• Iron: 3mg (15% DV)
• Potassium: 450mg (10% DV)

* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.

** Nutrient information is based on available data and may not cover all ingredients. If you follow a medically restrictive diet, consult a doctor or registered dietitian before preparing this recipe.

History and Origin of One-Pan Sausage Gnocchi

The combination of sausage and gnocchi traces its roots to Italian cuisine, where gnocchismall potato-based dumplingshave been a staple since at least the Roman era. Traditionally, gnocchi were made with potatoes, flour, and eggs, often served with simple sauces like butter, sage, or tomato. Sausage, a versatile ingredient, was introduced regionally in Italy as a convenient protein addition to many rustic dishes. The modern "one-pan" variation emerged in American kitchens as a quick and practical adaptation, marrying the hearty flavors of Italian staples with the convenience of minimal cleanup, catering to busy households and contemporary tastes.

Regional Variations

While gnocchi originated in Northern Italy, the use of sausage differs across regions. In Tuscany, pork sausages with fennel are common, while in southern Italy, spicier varieties may be used. American interpretations, like the one-pan sausage gnocchi, often feature chicken or turkey sausages with garlic and herbs, reflecting local preferences for lighter meats and readily available supermarket ingredients. Spinach or cream is sometimes added to create a richer texture, blending Italian tradition with modern comfort food.

Differences from Similar Dishes

Although gnocchi can resemble pasta in appearance, its potato base gives it a denser, pillowy texture distinct from spaghetti or penne. The one-pan sausage gnocchi is differentiated from traditional gnocchi dishes by its cooking method: everything is sauted and combined in a single skillet, rather than preparing pasta and sauce separately. Unlike baked pasta casseroles, this dish emphasizes speed and simplicity while maintaining depth of flavor from the sausage, butter, and broth.

Where It Is Typically Served

This dish is popular in casual family dinners, weeknight meals, and home-cooked gatherings. Its ease of preparation and single-pan cleanup make it a favorite in households where efficiency is important. Some modern bistros or Italian-American restaurants may feature it on their dinner menus as a comforting entre, often paired with a light salad or roasted vegetables. It is rarely served in traditional Italian restaurants, where gnocchi is usually prepared with classic sauces and served separately from meats.

Interesting Facts

• Gnocchi are often called "little knots" because the word derives from the Italian word nocchio, meaning a knot in wood.
• The one-pan approach reflects a broader trend in contemporary cooking: simplifying classic recipes without losing authenticity.
• Frozen gnocchi, commonly used in this recipe, became widely popular in the late 20th century, making this traditionally labor-intensive dish more accessible.
• Adding spinach not only boosts nutrition but also provides a vibrant color contrast that makes the dish visually appealing.
• Despite its modern twist, the recipe maintains strong Italian culinary principles: balance of flavors, careful use of fat, and highlighting quality ingredients like fresh sausage and butter.

FAQ about One-Pan Sausage Gnocchi Recipe

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