Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi with Italian Sausage: Your Ultimate One-Pan Comfort Meal
Indulge in this quick, easy, and incredibly satisfying one-pan Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi. It’s the perfect “healthified” comfort food, brimming with flavor and ready in under 30 minutes!
Gnocchi, those delightful little potato dumplings, are often overlooked but truly deserve a spotlight in your kitchen. Their soft, pillowy texture makes them incredibly versatile and a fantastic base for countless dishes. From hearty soups like Chicken Gnocchi Soup – a winter favorite – to vibrant summer skillets, gnocchi always deliver on comfort and flavor. You’ll usually find them right alongside other dried pasta in the grocery store, making them an excellent pantry staple for those busy weeknights when you need a delicious meal in a flash.
This particular Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi recipe found its way into our home years ago, originating from a “Cooking Light” magazine, and it has been a beloved family staple ever since. Its adaptability means it shines whether you’re using fresh, ripe summer tomatoes or relying on convenient canned diced tomatoes during the colder months. Either way, it transforms into a deeply comforting and utterly delicious meal that satisfies every time.
Why You’ll Love This Easy Cheesy Gnocchi Skillet
There are countless reasons why this Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi will quickly become a go-to in your recipe rotation. First and foremost, it’s a **one-pan wonder**, meaning minimal cleanup – a dream come true on busy weeknights! You cook everything from start to finish in a single skillet, which not only saves time but also allows all the incredible flavors to meld together beautifully. The recipe is also **exceptionally quick**, coming together in under 30 minutes. This makes it perfect for those evenings when you’re short on time but still want a homemade, hearty meal.
Beyond its convenience, this dish is the epitome of **comfort food**. The soft, tender gnocchi, savory Italian sausage, rich tomato sauce, and gooey melted mozzarella create a symphony of textures and tastes that warm you from the inside out. It’s a satisfying meal that feels indulgent but can be easily “healthified” with a few smart substitutions, as we’ll discuss. Plus, its **versatility** is unmatched; you can easily swap proteins, add different vegetables, or experiment with various cheeses to suit your preference or what you have on hand. It’s a flexible recipe that invites customization, ensuring you never get bored.
Understanding Gnocchi: More Than Just Pasta
Before we dive into the recipe, let’s talk a little about gnocchi. These delightful dumplings, typically made from potato, semolina, or flour, offer a unique texture that sets them apart from traditional pasta. When cooked correctly, they should be light, airy, and wonderfully tender – hence the term “pillowy.”
You’ll commonly find two main types of gnocchi in grocery stores:
- Shelf-stable gnocchi: Usually found in the pasta aisle, these are vacuum-sealed and don’t require refrigeration until opened. They’re incredibly convenient and what we primarily use for this skillet recipe.
- Refrigerated gnocchi: Often found near fresh pasta, these tend to be a bit softer and cook even faster. Both types work well, but the skillet method we use here is particularly good for browning shelf-stable gnocchi to give them a lovely crisp exterior before they finish cooking in the sauce.
Unlike traditional pasta, which is usually boiled, this recipe takes a slightly different approach by pan-frying the gnocchi. This technique creates a delicious golden-brown crust on the outside while keeping the inside tender, adding an extra layer of texture and flavor that elevates the dish significantly.
What You’ll Need for This Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this incredible one-pan meal. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the readily available components. Here’s a closer look at what you’ll need, along with some helpful notes:
- Gnocchi: One 16 oz package of shelf-stable potato gnocchi is perfect. No need to boil it beforehand for this recipe!
- Italian Sausage: We recommend 12 oz of your favorite Italian sausage. Whether you prefer mild, medium, or spicy, ground pork, chicken, or turkey Italian sausage will work beautifully.
- Olive Oil: A couple of teaspoons will help brown the gnocchi and sauté the aromatics.
- Garlic: Two cloves, finely minced, are key for building a robust flavor base. Don’t skip this!
- Tomatoes: 1 1/2 cups of diced tomatoes. You have options here: fresh diced tomatoes for a vibrant, summery feel, or one can of diced tomatoes (undrained) for convenience, especially in colder months. Both yield delicious results.
- Italian Seasoning: One teaspoon of this aromatic blend brings all the classic Italian flavors together effortlessly.
- Heavy Cream: A quarter cup of heavy cream adds richness and helps create a luscious, creamy sauce. (See variations below for alternatives.)
- Mozzarella Cheese: Half a cup of shredded mozzarella cheese for that irresistible gooey, cheesy topping.
- Salt & Pepper: To taste, enhancing all the other flavors.
With these simple ingredients, you’re well on your way to a fantastic meal that’s both easy to prepare and incredibly satisfying.
How To Make Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi: Step-by-Step
This one-pan meal is surprisingly simple to put together. Follow these steps for a delicious and easy dinner:
- Brown the Gnocchi: Heat a large skillet (preferably cast iron or a heavy-bottomed pan) over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil. Once shimmering, add the uncooked gnocchi directly to the pan. Cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi develop a light golden-brown color and begin to soften. This pan-frying technique gives them a wonderful texture. Remove the browned gnocchi from the pan and set aside in a warm bowl.
- Cook the Sausage and Garlic: Add the Italian sausage to the same skillet, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the sausage is fully cooked through and no pink remains. Drain any excess fat from the pan if necessary. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, just until it becomes fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic. Remove the cooked sausage and garlic from the pan and add it to the bowl with the gnocchi, keeping everything warm.
- Build the Tomato Sauce: In the now empty skillet (no need to clean it!), stir in the diced tomatoes (fresh or canned), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the tomatoes to soften and break down, concentrating their flavors and creating a rich sauce base.
- Combine and Creamify: Return the cooked sausage, garlic, and browned gnocchi to the pan with the tomato sauce. Stir everything together gently to combine. Pour in the heavy cream and stir until the sauce is well incorporated and warmed through, which should only take a few minutes.
- Melt the Cheese: Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the gnocchi mixture in the skillet. Cover the skillet with a lid (or foil if you don’t have a lid) and let it sit for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious one-pan meal!
Customizing Your Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi: FAQs & Variations
One of the best aspects of this Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi recipe is how wonderfully adaptable it is. Whether you’re looking to lighten it up, add more veggies, or switch up the protein, here are some common questions and variation ideas to make it your own.
Can I Use Something Other Than Heavy Cream?
Absolutely! If you don’t have heavy cream on hand or prefer a lighter option, you have several excellent substitutes. Since the recipe only calls for 1/4 cup, the impact on the overall dish is minimal, but it does add a lovely richness. You can confidently use:
- Half-and-Half: A good choice for a slightly lighter but still creamy texture.
- Milk (Whole or 2%): Will yield a thinner sauce, but still tasty.
- Evaporated Milk: Offers a good creamy consistency without being as rich as heavy cream.
- Dairy-Free Alternatives: Unsweetened cashew milk or almond milk can work, though they might impart a subtle flavor. Full-fat coconut milk (from a can) would provide a very rich, dairy-free option, but be aware of its distinct taste.
What Type of Sausage Works Best?
The beauty of this recipe is its flexibility when it comes to sausage. You can truly use **whatever type of Italian sausage you like**! If you’re aiming to cut down on fat or prefer a leaner protein, ground turkey Italian sausage or chicken Italian sausage are fantastic choices. They cook up just as well and absorb the flavors of the tomatoes and seasonings beautifully. If you enjoy a bit of heat, opt for a spicy Italian sausage. Mild or sweet Italian sausage will give you a more traditional, mellow flavor. Feel free to use links (removed from casings) or ground bulk sausage – whatever you have and prefer will work great.
Recipe Variations to Explore
- Add More Vegetables: This skillet is an ideal candidate for incorporating extra veggies. Stir in a handful of fresh spinach or kale at the end, just as you add the cream, and let it wilt. Sliced bell peppers or zucchini can be sautéed with the sausage or tomatoes. Mushrooms would also be a fantastic addition.
- Different Cheeses: While mozzarella is classic, feel free to experiment. A blend of mozzarella and provolone, or a sprinkle of Parmesan, would add depth. For a sharper flavor, try some shredded white cheddar.
- Spice It Up: If you love a kick, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the skillet along with the Italian seasoning.
- Herb Boost: Fresh herbs always elevate a dish. A handful of fresh basil or parsley stirred in at the very end will brighten the flavors.
- Vegetarian Option: Omit the sausage and instead, sauté extra vegetables like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant. You could also use a plant-based ground “meat” substitute to maintain a similar texture.
Tips for Success and Serving Suggestions
Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi:
- Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: When browning the gnocchi, ensure there’s enough space for them to get a nice crust. If your skillet is too small, you might need to cook them in two batches.
- Patience with Browning: Allow the gnocchi to sit for a few minutes undisturbed before stirring to achieve that desirable golden-brown exterior. This adds a fantastic textural contrast.
- Taste and Adjust: Always taste your sauce before adding the gnocchi and sausage back in. Adjust salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning to your preference. Remember that sausage can add a fair amount of salt already.
- Fresh vs. Canned Tomatoes: If using fresh tomatoes, ensure they are ripe and flavorful. Canned diced tomatoes are a reliable option for consistent flavor year-round. Don’t drain canned diced tomatoes, as the liquid contributes to the sauce.
- Heavy-Bottomed Skillet: A good quality, heavy-bottomed skillet (like cast iron or stainless steel) will ensure even heat distribution and prevent sticking, leading to better browning and less scorching.
What to Serve with Your Gnocchi Skillet:
This Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi is a complete meal on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with a few simple sides to round out the experience:
- Fresh Green Salad: A light, crisp green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich gnocchi.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every last bit of that delicious, cheesy sauce. A warm baguette or ciabatta would be ideal.
- Steamed Vegetables: Simple steamed broccoli, green beans, or asparagus can add extra nutrients and a pop of color.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted bell peppers, zucchini, or cherry tomatoes would complement the Italian flavors beautifully.
Storage and Reheating
This Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi makes fantastic leftovers, though the gnocchi might lose a bit of their crispness. Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, you can either warm it gently in a skillet on the stovetop over medium-low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if the sauce seems too thick, or microwave it in individual portions until heated through.
More Easy Dinner Recipes
If you loved this simple and delicious one-pan meal, you’re sure to enjoy these other easy dinner ideas:
- Chipotle Chicken Bowls
- Pan Seared Salmon
- Southwest Baked Chicken
- Chicken Chorizo Pasta
- Chile Relleno Casserole
- Chicken Bacon Ranch Wrap
- Sausage & Rice Skillet
Cheesy Skillet Gnocchi
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Ingredients
- 1 16 oz package gnocchi
- 2 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, finely minced
- 12 oz Italian sausage
- 1 1/2 cups tomatoes, diced (or 1 can diced tomatoes)
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup shredded Mozzarella cheese
Instructions
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Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil and gnocchi. Cook for about 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi start to lightly brown and soften. Remove them from the pan and set aside.
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Add the Italian sausage to the pan, breaking it apart, and cook for 5-6 minutes until it is cooked through. Drain any excess fat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant. Remove the sausage and garlic from the pan and keep warm with the gnocchi.
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Stir in the diced tomatoes (fresh or canned), Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper into the same pan. Cook for 7-8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the tomatoes soften and break down, forming a sauce.
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Return the cooked sausage, garlic, and browned gnocchi to the pan. Stir in the heavy cream. Cook for a few minutes until the mixture is thoroughly warmed through and the sauce is creamy.
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Evenly sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the gnocchi mixture. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is completely melted and bubbly. Serve hot.
Notes
Nutrition
Nutrition information is automatically calculated, so should only be used as an approximation.
Additional Info
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