Imagine a comforting, cheesy casserole that combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage, the pillowy softness of gnocchi, and the fresh bite of spinach – this is the Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi Bake. This dish is the perfect marriage of rich, creamy goodness and satisfying texture, making it a true crowd-pleaser for any occasion. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a show-stopping side dish, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
Table of Contents
Ingredients for Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi Bake
The key to this delectable bake lies in the carefully selected ingredients. You’ll need Italian sausage (chicken or turkey sausage work well for a lighter option), gnocchi, fresh spinach, garlic, cream, and a blend of mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. The Italian seasoning brings all the flavors together, while a touch of olive oil helps brown the sausage to perfection.
Essential Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (chicken or turkey preferred)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Ingredient Substitutions and Variations
While the classic combination of Italian sausage, gnocchi, and spinach is hard to beat, there are plenty of ways to customize this dish to suit your preferences. You can use spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick, swap in mushrooms or bell peppers for the spinach, or try a blend of cheeses like fontina or provolone. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables or plant-based protein.
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Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi Bake 4 Servings Easy Delicious
- Total Time: 35
- Yield: 6 1x
Description
Imagine a comforting, cheesy casserole that combines the savory flavors of Italian sausage, the pillowy softness of gnocchi, and the fresh bite of spinach – this is the Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi Bake.
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 lb Italian sausage (chicken or turkey preferred)
- 1 small onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- 1. Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking up the sausage with a spatula, until it’s nicely browned and the onions are translucent, about 6-8 minutes.
- 2. Once the sausage mixture is cooked, stir in the gnocchi and fresh spinach. The spinach will wilt down quickly, creating a delicious combination of textures and flavors. Season the mixture with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
- 3. Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will allow the cream to thicken and create a creamy, luxurious sauce. Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and all of the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
- 4. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the creamy gnocchi mixture to a baking dish and top it with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake the dish for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Notes
For this recipe, opt for high-quality Italian sausage, either mild or spicy, depending on your preference. Chicken or turkey sausage can be a healthier alternative to pork sausage, while still delivering that signature Italian flavor.
When it comes to the gnocchi, you can use store-bought or homemade. If using store-bought, be sure to follow the package instructions for the best texture. For homemade gnocchi, handle the dough gently to avoid tough, dense gnocchi.
To ensure a perfectly creamy and cheesy bake, be sure to shred or grate the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This will help them melt seamlessly into the sauce. Additionally, letting the dish rest for a few minutes after baking will allow the cheese to set up for that irresistible, stringy texture.
- Prep Time: 15
- Cook Time: 20
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Italian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 36
- Saturated Fat: 18
- Unsaturated Fat: 12
- Trans Fat: 0
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 3
- Protein: 24
- Cholesterol: 120
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Sausage
Start by heating the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Cook, breaking up the sausage with a spatula, until it’s nicely browned and the onions are translucent, about 6-8 minutes.
Incorporating Gnocchi and Spinach
Once the sausage mixture is cooked, stir in the gnocchi and fresh spinach. The spinach will wilt down quickly, creating a delicious combination of textures and flavors. Season the mixture with the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper to taste.
Adding Cream and Cheese
Pour in the heavy cream and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will allow the cream to thicken and create a creamy, luxurious sauce. Stir in half of the shredded mozzarella cheese and all of the grated Parmesan cheese until well combined.
Baking the Dish
Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the creamy gnocchi mixture to a baking dish and top it with the remaining mozzarella cheese. Bake the dish for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Tips for Perfect Gnocchi Bake
Choosing the Right Sausage
For this recipe, opt for high-quality Italian sausage, either mild or spicy, depending on your preference. Chicken or turkey sausage can be a healthier alternative to pork sausage, while still delivering that signature Italian flavor.
Gnocchi Cooking Tips
When it comes to the gnocchi, you can use store-bought or homemade. If using store-bought, be sure to follow the package instructions for the best texture. For homemade gnocchi, handle the dough gently to avoid tough, dense gnocchi.
Cheese Melting Techniques
To ensure a perfectly creamy and cheesy bake, be sure to shred or grate the mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses. This will help them melt seamlessly into the sauce. Additionally, letting the dish rest for a few minutes after baking will allow the cheese to set up for that irresistible, stringy texture.
Serving Suggestions
Ideal Side Dishes
This Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi Bake pairs beautifully with a fresh, crisp salad or roasted vegetables, like asparagus or broccoli. For a heartier meal, consider serving it alongside garlic bread or a crusty loaf of Italian bread.
Pairing with Wine
For a delightful wine pairing, consider a medium-bodied red wine, such as a Chianti or Montepulciano. The bold, fruity notes of these Italian wines will complement the rich, creamy flavors of the bake.
Serving for Special Occasions
This dish is not only comforting and delicious for a family dinner, but it also makes a fantastic main course or side dish for special occasions, such as holiday gatherings or dinner parties. Its impressive presentation and crowd-pleasing flavors are sure to delight your guests.
Nutritional Information
Caloric Breakdown
This Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi Bake is a hearty and satisfying dish, with each serving providing approximately 550 calories. The majority of the calories come from the gnocchi, sausage, and cream, while the spinach and cheese add valuable nutrients and protein.
Health Benefits of Ingredients
While this dish is indulgent, the ingredients offer some health benefits. The spinach provides a boost of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, while the Italian sausage is a good source of protein. The cream and cheese contribute calcium and other essential nutrients, making this bake a relatively well-balanced meal.
FAQs for Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi Bake
What ingredients do I need to make Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi Bake?
To make this dish, you will need gnocchi (store-bought or homemade), Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on your preference), fresh spinach, garlic, cream (or a creamy alternative), mozzarella cheese, Parmesan cheese, and Italian seasoning. Optional ingredients can include crushed red pepper flakes for heat and fresh herbs for garnish.
Can I make Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi Bake ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. You can assemble the gnocchi bake, cover it tightly, and store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours before baking. When ready to bake, you may need to increase the cooking time slightly if it’s coming straight from the fridge.
Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! You can easily make a vegetarian version by omitting the Italian sausage and substituting it with a plant-based sausage or additional vegetables such as mushrooms or bell peppers. You can also enhance the flavor with extra seasonings and herbs.
How do I store leftovers of Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi Bake?
To store leftovers, let the dish cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave individual portions until hot.
More Related Recipes You Might Enjoy
- Creamy Mushroom and Spinach Gnocchi
- Italian Sausage and Peppers Pasta Bake
- Spinach and Ricotta Stuffed Shells
Conclusion
The Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi Bake is a delightful and satisfying dish that combines the best of Italian flavors. With its creamy, cheesy goodness and the perfect balance of sausage, gnocchi, and spinach, this bake is sure to become a new family favorite. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting weeknight meal, this recipe is sure to delight and impress. So, gather your ingredients and get ready to dive into the irresistible world of this Creamy Italian Sausage and Spinach Gnocchi Bake!
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