🍝 Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi with Spinach & Tomato Sauce (One-Pan, 30-Minute Meal!)
Rich, comforting, and packed with flavor—tender gnocchi, spicy sausage, and fresh spinach in a luscious tomato cream sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights!
📝 Ingredients
- 1 lb (450g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 (16oz/500g) package potato gnocchi (shelf-stable or refrigerated)
- 2 cups (500ml) marinara sauce (jarred or homemade)
- 1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter option)
- 2 cups (60g) fresh spinach
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1/2 cup (50g) grated Parmesan cheese (+ extra for garnish)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Salt & black pepper to taste
- (Optional: Fresh basil for garnish)
👩🍳 Instructions (One-Pan!)
1. Cook the Sausage
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add sausage (breaking it into crumbles) and cook until browned (~5-6 mins).
- Drain excess fat if needed (leave ~1 tbsp for flavor).
2. Simmer the Sauce
- Pour in marinara sauce, heavy cream, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Stir well.
- Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to medium-low.
3. Add Gnocchi & Spinach
- Stir in uncooked gnocchi, coating it in the sauce.
- Cover and cook for 5 mins, stirring occasionally.
- Uncover, add spinach, and stir until wilted (~2 mins).
4. Finish & Serve
- Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan cheese until melted.
- Season with salt & pepper to taste.
- Garnish with extra Parmesan and fresh basil (if using).
✨ Tips
✔ No heavy cream? Substitute with coconut milk (for dairy-free) or cream cheese (for extra richness).
✔ Extra veggies? Add sautéed mushrooms or roasted red peppers.
✔ Meal prep? Stores well in the fridge for 3 days—reheat with a splash of water to loosen sauce.
Ready in 30 mins, minimal cleanup, and restaurant-worthy flavor! 😋🍴
Pair with: Garlic bread & a crisp green salad. Enjoy! 🥖🥗
