Save to Pinterest A hearty, comforting skillet meal featuring pillowy gnocchi, earthy mushrooms, and savory sausage in a fragrant, creamy sauce—perfect for cozy evenings.
This dish has quickly become a go-to for chilly nights when I want something filling but easy to make.
Ingredients
- Italian sausage: 12 oz (340 g), mild or spicy, casings removed
- Mushrooms: 8 oz (225 g) cremini or button, cleaned and sliced
- Onion: 1 small yellow, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Baby spinach: 2 cups (60 g), roughly chopped
- Fresh thyme: 1 tablespoon leaves or 1 teaspoon dried
- Potato gnocchi: 1 lb (450 g), shelf-stable or refrigerated
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Chicken broth: 1/2 cup (120 ml), low-sodium
- Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g), grated
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and 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 2–3 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 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the gnocchi are tender.
- Step 8:
- Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan and serve hot.
Save to Pinterest Sharing this meal at the dinner table always brings warm smiles and satisfied appetites.
Pairing Suggestions
Pairs well with a crisp Chardonnay or a rustic red wine to complement the rich flavors.
Dietary Notes
Contains pork and dairy. For a vegetarian version, omit sausage and use sautéed wild mushrooms plus a pinch of smoked paprika.
Storage Tips
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days or freeze for longer storage.
Save to Pinterest This skillet meal is sure to become a family favorite with simple ingredients and big flavor.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use a different type of sausage?
Yes, you can substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter alternative while keeping the dish flavorful.
- → What kind of mushrooms work best?
Cremini or button mushrooms provide earthiness and texture, but wild mushrooms can add deeper flavors.
- → How should I cook the gnocchi for best results?
Toast the gnocchi briefly in the skillet before adding liquids to develop a slightly crispy exterior and enhance texture.
- → Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes, omit the sausage and use sautéed wild mushrooms with smoked paprika to build savory depth.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
A crisp Chardonnay or a rustic red wine complements the rich, creamy sauce and savory sausage notes nicely.