Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi
A comforting dish featuring tender gnocchi, savory chicken sausage, fresh spinach, and a rich creamy sauce, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi Dish
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided Enhances flavor and richness.
- 4 to 5 pieces chicken sausages, sliced Italian or Spicy Italian preferred for savory, hearty flavor.
- 1 piece shallot, diced Offers a mild sweetness when sautéed.
- 6 cloves garlic, minced Infuses the dish with aromatic warmth.
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano Elevates the dish with classic Italian herbs.
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided Essential for enhancing all flavors.
- 1/4 cup tomato paste Provides depth and sweetness.
- 1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth Serves as the savory base of the sauce.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream or full-fat coconut milk Creates a luscious and creamy texture.
- 1 pound gnocchi Or cauliflower gnocchi for a lighter option.
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped Adds color and nutritional value.
- 1-2 ounces grated Parmesan cheese Plus more to garnish for flavor enhancement.
- 1/4 cup basil leaves, julienned Freshens up the dish with herbal brightness.
Instructions
Cooking
- Place a large skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once warm, add chicken sausage slices and sauté until golden brown, about 3-5 minutes per side. Transfer the sausage to a large plate and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil, diced shallots, minced garlic, and 1/2 teaspoon of salt. Cook until the shallots are tender, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the Italian seasoning and tomato paste, cooking for an additional minute until the tomato paste deepens in color.
- Gradually stir in the chicken broth and heavy cream (or coconut milk), incorporating the remaining 1/2 teaspoon of salt.
- Add the gnocchi to the skillet and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi is tender, about 3-5 minutes.
- Return the sausage to the skillet, add the chopped spinach, and cook until the spinach wilts—about 2 minutes. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
- For a finishing touch, garnish with fresh julienned basil and additional Parmesan cheese. Serve with crusty garlic bread.
Notes
For extra flavor depth, sear the chicken sausage until browned. You can substitute with turkey sausage or a vegetarian alternative. If using heavy cream seems too rich, consider a mix of milk and cornstarch for a lighter sauce.