Save A hearty, comforting skillet meal featuring pillowy gnocchi, earthy mushrooms, and savory sausage in a fragrant, creamy sauce&mdashperfect for cozy evenings.
This recipe quickly became a favorite in my household because of its rich flavors and ease of preparation.
Ingredients
- Italian sausage: 12 oz (340 g) mild or spicy, casings removed
- Mushrooms: 8 oz (225 g) cremini or button, cleaned and sliced
- Yellow onion: 1 small, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Baby spinach: 2 cups (60 g), roughly chopped
- Fresh thyme leaves: 1 tablespoon (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Potato gnocchi: 1 lb (450 g), shelf-stable or refrigerated
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g), grated
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon olive oil. Sauté the onions for 2 minutes until softened, then add the mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are golden and their moisture has evaporated, about 5 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Add garlic and thyme to the skillet, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the gnocchi, letting it toast slightly for 2&ndash3 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Pour in the chicken broth and cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return the sausage to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Step 6:
- Fold in the spinach and half the Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 7:
- Simmer uncovered for 5&ndash7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the gnocchi are tender.
- Step 8:
- Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan and serve hot.
Save This dish always brings my family together for a warm and satisfying meal after busy days.
Notes
Add a splash of white wine with the broth for extra depth or pair this meal with a crisp Chardonnay or a rustic red wine for best results.
Required Tools
Large oven-proof skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, chefs knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons.
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gnocchi), milk (cream and Parmesan), possibly egg (gnocchi), and pork (sausage). Double-check ingredients for specific allergen content.
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This skillet meal is quick, flavorful, and perfect for any night you crave comfort food.
Recipe FAQ
- → Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork?
Yes, turkey or chicken sausage works well as a lighter substitute and maintains great flavor.
- → What type of mushrooms are best for this dish?
Cremini or button mushrooms are recommended for their earthy flavor and texture.
- → How do I prevent the gnocchi from sticking?
To avoid sticking, toast the gnocchi slightly in the skillet before adding liquids and stir gently during cooking.
- → Can I make this vegetarian?
Omit the sausage and increase mushrooms, perhaps adding smoked paprika to boost flavor in a vegetarian version.
- → What wine pairs well with this meal?
A crisp Chardonnay or rustic red wine complements the creamy and savory elements beautifully.
- → Is it necessary to use chicken broth?
Chicken broth adds depth, but vegetable broth can be substituted for a lighter or vegetarian option.