Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi: A Flavorful Delight

Name: Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound gnocchi (fresh or frozen); 8 ounces Italian sausage (mild or spicy); 1 cup heavy cream; ½ cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese; 3 cloves garlic (minced); 2 cups fresh spinach (optional); 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste

Published: November 30, 2025

by Emma Taylor

Why You'll Love This Recipe

This creamy Italian sausage gnocchi is quick and easy to whip up on busy weeknights
The explosion of flavors from the creamy sauce and sausage creates an unforgettable meal
Its gorgeous presentation makes it perfect for impressing dinner guests or enjoying a comforting night in
Plus, it’s versatile enough to customize with your favorite veggies or spices

I remember the first time I served this dish; my uncle went silent for what felt like an eternity before exclaiming that he could eat it every day for the rest of his life!

Essential Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:

Gnocchi: Opt for fresh or frozen gnocchi; both work beautifully but fresh gives a delightful texture.
Italian Sausage: Use mild or spicy sausage based on your preference; it significantly impacts flavor.
Heavy Cream: This is the magic ingredient that brings everything together into creamy perfection.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan enhances the richness and adds lovely umami notes.
Garlic: Fresh garlic cloves provide aromatic depth; don’t skimp on this! For more inspiration, check out this Garlic Butter Green Beans recipe.
Spinach (optional): Adding spinach boosts nutrition and adds vibrant color to your dish.
Olive Oil: A splash of high-quality olive oil adds extra flavor during cooking.
Salt and Pepper: Essential for seasoning; adjust according to taste preferences.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi

Let’s Make it Together

Sauté the Sausage: Start by heating olive oil over medium heat in a large skillet. Add sliced Italian sausage and cook until browned and crispy, releasing its savory scent.

Add Garlic and Spinach: Toss in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Then, stir in fresh spinach until wilted; this will take just a couple of minutes.

Pour in Heavy Cream: Lower the heat slightly and slowly add heavy cream, stirring well until combined with the sausage mixture. Watch as it transforms into a luscious sauce!

Add Gnocchi: Gently fold in cooked gnocchi into the skillet. Let everything simmer together for 3-4 minutes so those flavors can meld beautifully.

Finish with Parmesan: Sprinkle freshly grated Parmesan cheese over the top, stirring again until melted and creamy. This step is crucial for that indulgent finish!

Season & Serve: Taste your masterpiece! Season with salt and pepper as needed before serving hot. Garnish with extra cheese if you’re feeling fancy!

Now you know how to create this delectable creamy Italian sausage gnocchi! Enjoy every mouthful while possibly wearing stretchy pants—trust me on this one!

You Must Know

Mastering creamy Italian sausage gnocchi is a culinary delight that combines rich flavors with comforting textures
The dish’s aroma fills the kitchen, making it irresistible for family and friends
With the right tips, you can elevate this meal to new heights, ensuring everyone asks for seconds

Perfecting the Cooking Process

Start by browning the sausage in a pan, then cook the gnocchi while preparing your luscious cream sauce for a seamless flow.

Add Your Touch

Feel free to swap sausage for chicken or add spinach and sun-dried tomatoes for a fresh twist on flavor.

Storing & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge. Reheat gently on low heat to keep the sauce creamy.

Chef's Helpful Tips

To achieve a perfect creamy sauce, always use heavy cream instead of milk
This ensures richness and prevents curdling
When cooking gnocchi, avoid overcooking them to maintain their tender texture
Lastly, adding Parmesan cheese at the end makes everything extra cheesy and delicious

Cooking this dish reminds me of my first dinner party where my friends declared it “the best comfort food ever.” It was heartwarming to see everyone enjoying something I created with love.

FAQ

Can I use frozen gnocchi for creamy Italian sausage gnocchi?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly; just cook them according to package instructions.

What can I substitute for heavy cream in this recipe?

You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy alternative like coconut cream. For more inspiration, check out this Chewy Caramel Coconut Cookies recipe.

How do I know when the gnocchi is done cooking?

Gnocchi is done when they float to the top of boiling water; it usually takes 2-3 minutes.

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📖 Recipe Card