Baked Gnocchi with Sausage

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Description

Baked Gnocchi with Sausage is the ultimate comfort food — pillowy potato gnocchi baked in a rich tomato sauce with flavorful Italian sausage, topped with gooey mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. This hearty dish comes together quickly and is perfect for weeknight dinners or cozy family meals.

Ingredients For Baked Gnocchi with Sausage

  • 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

  • 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed

  • 1 medium onion, diced

  • 3 cloves garlic, minced

  • 1 can (28 oz / 800 g) crushed tomatoes

  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning

  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)

  • 1/2 tsp salt (adjust to taste)

  • 1/4 tsp black pepper

  • 1/4 cup fresh basil or parsley, chopped

  • 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

  • 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

Instructions

  1. Cook sausage: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned. Remove excess fat if needed.

  2. Add aromatics: Stir in onion and garlic, sauté until soft and fragrant (about 3 minutes).

  3. Make the sauce: Add crushed tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Simmer for 10 minutes. Stir in fresh basil.

  4. Cook gnocchi: While the sauce simmers, cook gnocchi in boiling salted water until they float (2–3 minutes). Drain well.

  5. Combine: Stir cooked gnocchi into the sauce.

  6. Assemble: Transfer mixture to a greased 9×13 baking dish. Top with mozzarella and Parmesan.

  7. Bake: Bake at 375°F (190°C) for 20–25 minutes, until bubbly and golden.

  8. Serve: Garnish with extra basil or parsley. Serve hot.

Notes

  • Use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter version.

  • If you prefer creamy baked gnocchi, stir in 1/2 cup heavy cream to the sauce before baking.

  • Can be assembled ahead of time and refrigerated — just add 5–10 extra minutes of baking.

Tips

  • Broil for the last 2–3 minutes for a crispy, golden cheese topping.

  • Pair with a fresh green salad or garlic bread for a complete meal.

  • Freeze leftovers in portions for easy reheating.

Servings

  • Makes 6 servings

Nutritional Info (per serving, approx.)

  • Calories: 460 kcal

  • Protein: 24 g

  • Carbohydrates: 38 g

  • Fat: 23 g

  • Fiber: 5 g

  • Sodium: 980 mg

Benefits

  • High in protein from sausage and cheese.

  • Comforting and filling, great for family meals.

  • Customizable with vegetables like spinach, mushrooms, or zucchini.

  • Meal-prep friendly, can be frozen and reheated.

Q&A

Q: Can I use frozen gnocchi?
A: Yes! No need to thaw, just cook directly in boiling water until they float.

Q: Can I make it vegetarian?
A: Absolutely. Swap sausage with sautéed mushrooms, lentils, or plant-based sausage.

Q: How long does it keep in the fridge?
A: About 3–4 days in an airtight container.

Q: Can I freeze baked gnocchi?
A: Yes. Bake, cool completely, and freeze in portions for up to 2 months. Reheat covered in the oven.

Q: Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of packaged?
A: Yes — just shorten the boiling time (about 1 minute).

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