Indulge in the ultimate Italian comfort food with this sumptuous Creamy Gnocchi Pasta Recipe, featuring Italian Sausage and spinach drenched in a luscious creamy Parmesan sauce. This dish is not only a testament to the rich flavors of Italy but also a marvel of convenience, coming together in one skillet on the stovetop in under thirty minutes. Perfect for a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe pairs wonderfully with Cheese Garlic Bread and an Italian Chopped Salad for a meal that’s as complete as it is delectable.
Why This Recipe Stands Out:
This skillet recipe is a beloved classic, cherished across generations for its heartwarming flavors and comfort. It’s not uncommon to see plates wiped clean, a silent testament to its irresistible appeal. Moreover, this recipe scores high on accessibility and simplicity. All the necessary ingredients are readily available at your local supermarket, ensuring that even those new to the kitchen can whip up this delicacy with ease. The one-skillet method further simplifies the cooking process, making cleanup a breeze.
Understanding Gnocchi:
Gnocchi, the star of this dish, are delightful little dumplings traditionally made from potatoes, flour, ricotta cheese, and egg. Resembling more of a dough dumpling than actual pasta, gnocchi is nonetheless often grouped with pasta due to its similar preparation methods. It serves as a fantastic base for a variety of sauces and additions, including creamy concoctions, sausage, chicken, and a medley of vegetables like onions, mushrooms, garlic, spinach, and tomatoes.
Crafting the Creamy Gnocchi Pasta:
Ingredients:
- Italian Sausage
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- A mix of herbs: parsley, oregano, rosemary, thyme, marjoram
- Crushed red pepper, for a hint of heat
- Butter and vegetable oil, for sautéing
- Gnocchi
- Sundried tomatoes, for a tangy sweetness
- Chicken broth and heavy cream, for the sauce
- Spinach, for a fresh touch
- Parmesan cheese, grated
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Directions:
- Begin by sautéing the Italian sausage over medium heat in a large skillet until it’s halfway cooked. Introduce the chopped onion to the mix. As the sausage continues to cook, lower the heat and add in the garlic and herbs, stirring for about a minute to unleash their fragrances. Transfer the mixture to a plate and cover to keep warm.
- In the same skillet, add a dab of butter and a splash of vegetable oil over medium heat. Toss in the gnocchi and sundried tomatoes, frying until the gnocchi turn golden. Pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, letting it simmer to a slightly thickened consistency.
- Fold in the spinach, allowing it to just wilt. Lower the heat, then gradually stir in the Parmesan cheese until it seamlessly melts into the sauce. Reintroduce the sausage mixture to the skillet, adjusting the seasoning with salt and pepper to your taste.
Recipe Insights and Pro Tips:
- Fresh gnocchi can be found in the refrigerated section of most supermarkets, nestled among other fresh pastas and cheeses. If you’re feeling ambitious, homemade gnocchi elevates this dish to new heights.
- There’s no need to pre-boil the gnocchi for this recipe, making it even more straightforward.
- Feel free to experiment with different herbs to find your perfect flavor profile.
- Look for jarred sundried tomatoes in the section of the store where pickles and olives are stocked. Opting for the julienne-cut tomatoes saves time and effort.
- Should the cream sauce thicken too much, simply thin it with a little low-sodium chicken broth until you reach the desired consistency.
- Leftovers store well in an airtight container in the refrigerator or can be frozen for up to two months. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave at 50% power, stirring at one-minute intervals until warmed through.
Conclusion:
This Creamy Gnocchi Pasta Recipe with Italian Sausage and Spinach encapsulates the essence of Italian comfort food, marrying the richness of a creamy Parmesan sauce with the earthy tones of sausage and spinach. It’s a testament to the beauty of simple, flavorful ingredients coming together to create a meal that’s both satisfying and sophisticated. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just beginning your culinary journey, this recipe promises a delightful experience that brings a taste of Italy right to your table. So, gather your ingredients and prepare to indulge in a meal that’s sure to become a new favorite.
image source : Small Town Woman
