Name: Gnocchi with Tomato Sauce and Italian Sausage Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 8 oz mushrooms (crimini, sliced); 15 oz Italian sausage (crumbled); 16 oz gnocchi (uncooked); 5 cloves garlic (minced); ½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or Herbs from Provence); Red pepper flakes (to taste); 13 oz tomato sauce (such as tomato pasta sauce or marinara, preferably with chunks of tomato); ½ cup chicken broth (or water); 6 oz fresh spinach; Salt and coarsely ground black pepper (to taste); Fresh thyme (for garnish)

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Introduction

This Gnocchi with Tomato Sauce is a comforting and flavorful dish perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner. Tender gnocchi meld with savory Italian sausage, earthy mushrooms, and a rich tomato sauce enhanced by fresh spinach and herbs.

A close-up view of a black cast iron skillet filled with cooked gnocchi, browned mushroom slices, crumbled sausage pieces, wilted spinach, and small bits of tomato, all mixed together with fresh green herbs scattered on top. The gnocchi are plump and golden, while the mushrooms have a rich brown sear. The spinach adds deep green color, and the sausage reveals a browned texture. The dish is set on a white marbled surface with some green herb sprigs nearby. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

1 tablespoon olive oil
8 oz mushrooms (crimini, sliced)
15 oz Italian sausage (crumbled)
16 oz gnocchi (uncooked)
5 cloves garlic (minced)
½ teaspoon Italian seasoning (or Herbs from Provence)
Red pepper flakes (to taste)
13 oz tomato sauce (such as tomato pasta sauce or marinara, preferably with chunks of tomatoes)
½ cup chicken broth (or water)
6 oz spinach (fresh)
Salt and coarsely ground black pepper (to taste)
Fresh thyme (for garnish)

Instructions

Step 1: Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat in a large, high-sided skillet.
Step 2: Add the sliced mushrooms and cook for 3 to 5 minutes until tender but not overcooked. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then remove mushrooms from the skillet and set aside.
Step 3: In the same empty skillet, add the crumbled Italian sausage and cook over medium heat for about 5 minutes, until fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
Step 4: Add the uncooked gnocchi, minced garlic, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, tomato sauce, and chicken broth (or water) to the skillet with the sausage. Stir well and bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently.
Step 5: Add the fresh spinach and cook for another 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the gnocchi is cooked through.
Step 6: Stir everything to combine, then remove from heat.
Step 7: Season with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and additional red pepper flakes if desired. Top with the cooked mushrooms and garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Tips & Variations

For a vegetarian version, substitute the Italian sausage with sautéed mushrooms or a plant-based sausage alternative.
Use homemade tomato sauce or marinara for a fresher taste, or add a splash of cream for a richer sauce.
Fresh basil can be swapped in place of thyme for a different herbaceous note.
If you prefer softer mushrooms, add them back into the skillet for the last few minutes to warm through.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth if the sauce has thickened too much.

How to Serve

This image shows a close-up of a dark gray plate filled with a dish of gnocchi, mushrooms, spinach, and ground meat mixed in a tomato-based sauce. The gnocchi are golden yellow with a soft texture, mixed evenly with brown, slightly crispy mushroom slices. Bright green spinach leaves add color contrast, and bits of red tomato sauce and crushed red pepper flakes are scattered throughout. Fresh green herbs are sprinkled on top, adding freshness and texture. The plate is placed on a wooden surface with some thyme sprigs around it, but the background is changed to a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works well. Just add a couple of extra minutes to the cooking time to ensure they are heated through completely.

What can I use if I don’t have chicken broth?

Water is a good substitute and will still deliver great results. For added flavor, you can also use vegetable broth.