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There is something truly comforting about a meal that comes together with minimal fuss yet delivers big on flavor and satisfaction. This Gnocchi with Peas and Sausage: One-Pan Dinner Recipe is exactly that kind of dish. Imagine pillowy potato gnocchi getting golden crisp bits while mingling with savory, browned Italian sausage and sweet, tender peas—all finished with a buttery touch of Parmesan and fresh herbs. It’s cozy and vibrant at once, perfect for busy weeknights when you want dinner done without losing that homemade touch. Let me take you step-by-step through this joyful, one-pan wonder that quickly becomes a go-to favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Each ingredient in this recipe is simple, familiar, and essential, playing a role in creating that perfect harmony of taste, texture, and color. From the rich sausage to the sweet peas, every component adds a dimension that makes this dish sing.
- 12 ounces Italian sausage: Choose mild or spicy based on your mood; removing casings ensures perfect crumbles that brown beautifully.
- 1 small onion (finely diced): Adds a subtle sweetness and depth when softened.
- 3 cloves garlic (minced): Just enough to bring warmth and aroma without overpowering.
- 16 ounces potato gnocchi: Pillowy, tender base that crisps up nicely in the pan for amazing texture contrast.
- 1 cup frozen peas: Brings a pop of sweetness and vibrant color, balancing the savory flavors.
- ¼ teaspoon salt: Enhances all the ingredients without overwhelming.
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle kick to brighten every bite.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Nutty and savory finish that melts into the gnocchi, making it irresistibly rich.
- ¼ cup chicken broth or heavy cream: Optional for those who prefer a bit more sauciness and creaminess.
- Red pepper flakes (to taste): Optional heat for a spirited touch.
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish): Fresh herbs add color and a burst of freshness to the final plate.
How to Make Gnocchi with Peas and Sausage: One-Pan Dinner Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium-high heat and adding a splash of olive oil. Adding the Italian sausage straight into the hot pan allows it to brown beautifully, creating those irresistible savory bits that bring depth to the whole dish. Use a spoon to break up the sausage into small crumbles as it cooks, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor. Once browned and cooked through, drain any excess grease so the dish doesn’t get too oily.
Step 2: Soften the Onion
Next, toss in the finely diced onion. Cooking it for about 3 to 4 minutes softens it just enough to release its natural sweetness and build a flavorful base. The softened onion blends seamlessly into the sausage, creating a hearty, savory foundation.
Step 3: Add Garlic for Aroma
Now stir in the minced garlic, cooking it for about 30 seconds until fragrant. You want to be careful here — garlic cooks quickly and can burn easily, so just a brief stir infuses the dish with that mouthwatering scent that signals deliciousness.
Step 4: Crisp the Gnocchi
Here comes the magic moment. Add the potato gnocchi right into the skillet without boiling them first. Spread them out in an even layer and resist the temptation to stir immediately. Let them cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes so that each nugget can develop a delightful golden crust. Then stir and continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes until the gnocchi is lightly crisped on all sides. This textural contrast is what makes this recipe truly special.
Step 5: Stir in Peas and Liquids
Once the gnocchi is perfectly golden, stir in the frozen peas. They’ll quickly thaw and add bursts of sweetness and an inviting pop of green to the skillet. If you find the dish looks dry at this point, pour in the chicken broth or heavy cream. This touch creates a luscious sauce that coats every piece beautifully without weighing it down.
Step 6: Season and Finish
Season the entire skillet with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat, then sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over everything, letting its salty richness melt into the warm gnocchi and sausage mixture. For a fragrant finish, garnish with freshly chopped parsley or basil. If you like a little heat, don’t forget the red pepper flakes — they give this one-pan dinner recipe a playful spark.
How to Serve Gnocchi with Peas and Sausage: One-Pan Dinner Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like parsley or basil are more than just pretty toppings; they add a bright, fresh flavor that balances the richness of the sausage and cheese. A light dusting of extra Parmesan also never hurts and brings a lovely finish to every bite.
Side Dishes
Since this dish packs protein, vegetables, and carbs all in one pan, sides can be simple. A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette or steamed asparagus works beautifully. If you want to stretch it further, crusty Italian bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce and flavor.
Creative Ways to Present
For a dinner party or special occasion, consider serving this gnocchi with peas and sausage recipe in individual cast iron skillets or pretty bowls. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil and a sprinkle of toasted pine nuts elevate the presentation and add unexpected texture. It’s a versatile dish that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the taste buds.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Because this dish holds up well, flavors often meld even better after resting, making second-day meals truly delicious.
Freezing
Freezing gnocchi with peas and sausage is doable but best done before adding the cheese. Portion it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion. It will keep for up to 2 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge for best texture.
Reheating
Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth or cream to restore creaminess without drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as that can make the gnocchi gummy. A quick toss on the stove brings the one-pan dinner recipe back to life beautifully.
FAQs
Can I use spicy sausage instead of mild?
Absolutely! Spicy Italian sausage adds a bold kick that pairs wonderfully with the sweet peas and creamy Parmesan. Just adjust the red pepper flakes accordingly.
Do I need to boil the gnocchi before adding to the pan?
No need. This one-pan dinner recipe works perfectly by cooking the gnocchi directly in the skillet. The gnocchi will cook through and develop a delightful crispy exterior without boiling.
Can I substitute the peas with another vegetable?
Yes, frozen peas are traditional here, but you can swap them with spinach, asparagus tips, or even diced zucchini for a different take while keeping that fresh green touch.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Classic potato gnocchi often contains wheat flour, so to keep it gluten-free, look for gnocchi labeled gluten-free or make your own with gluten-free flour.
What can I do to make this dish creamier?
The recipe already suggests adding chicken broth or heavy cream if you want a saucier dish. Feel free to increase the cream slightly or stir in a dollop of mascarpone or cream cheese for extra richness.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Gnocchi with Peas and Sausage: One-Pan Dinner Recipe, it will likely become a favorite quick meal in your home. Not only is it incredibly straightforward, but it’s also bursting with comforting, balanced flavors and just the right mix of textures. Whether you’re cooking for your family on a bustling weeknight or inviting friends over, this dish effortlessly impresses with its simplicity and soul. So grab your skillet and start cooking—this one-pan wonder is waiting!
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Gnocchi with Peas and Sausage: One-Pan Dinner Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Frying
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This delicious one-pan dinner features tender potato gnocchi sautéed with savory Italian sausage, sweet peas, and aromatic garlic and onion, all brought together with a touch of chicken broth or cream and finished with grated Parmesan and fresh herbs. Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s a perfect comforting meal with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 12 ounces Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 small onion (finely diced)
- 3 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 cup frozen peas
Main Ingredients
- 16 ounces potato gnocchi
Seasonings and Garnish
- ¼ teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- ¼ cup chicken broth or heavy cream (for a saucier dish)
- Red pepper flakes (to taste)
- Fresh parsley or basil (for garnish)
- Olive oil (for cooking, approximately 1-2 tablespoons)
Instructions
- Heat the skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat and add olive oil to coat the bottom.
- Cook the sausage: Add Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and fully cooked through, then drain excess grease if necessary.
- Sauté onions: Add diced onion to the skillet and cook for 3 to 4 minutes until softened and translucent.
- Add garlic: Stir in minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant, taking care not to burn it.
- Cook gnocchi initially: Add potato gnocchi directly to the skillet, spreading it out evenly. Let it cook undisturbed for 2 to 3 minutes to develop a golden crust on one side.
- Crisp the gnocchi: Stir the gnocchi and continue cooking for another 3 to 4 minutes until lightly crisped on all sides.
- Add peas and liquid: Stir in frozen peas. If the skillet looks dry at this point, add chicken broth or heavy cream to create a saucier consistency.
- Season the dish: Season with salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes to taste, stirring to combine all flavors evenly.
- Finish and serve: Remove skillet from heat. Sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top and garnish with fresh parsley or basil as desired. Serve warm immediately.
Notes
- For a creamier sauce, use heavy cream instead of chicken broth.
- You can adjust the spiciness by choosing mild or spicy Italian sausage and adding more or less red pepper flakes.
- If you prefer extra crispy gnocchi, allow them to cook undisturbed a little longer before stirring.
- Fresh herbs add a bright finish but are optional.
- Drain excess sausage grease to keep the dish from becoming too oily.
