Ready to spice up your dinner routine? This Spicy Sausage Tomato Gnocchi Skillet Delight packs bold flavors in one hearty dish. You’ll love how easily it comes together, from browning the sausage to simmering the gnocchi. With fresh spinach and simple seasonings, it’s comfort food that won’t disappoint. Dive into this guide and discover how to make a meal that’s both delicious and satisfying. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
To make this Spicy Sausage Tomato Gnocchi Skillet, gather these fresh and flavorful ingredients:
- 1 pound spicy Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with juices
- 1 cup vegetable broth
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought)
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Using quality ingredients makes a big difference in flavor. The spicy Italian sausage brings heat, while the diced tomatoes add sweetness. I love the smooth texture of potato gnocchi—they soak up the sauce perfectly. Don’t forget the fresh spinach! It adds color and nutrients.
When picking spices, smoked paprika adds depth, and red pepper flakes let you control the heat. Fresh basil and Parmesan cheese elevate the dish, making it feel gourmet.
Make sure to have everything ready before you start cooking. This dish comes together quickly, and having your ingredients prepped will keep the process smooth and fun. Enjoy cooking!
Step-by-Step Instructions
Cooking the Sausage
- First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add 1 pound of spicy Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula. Cook until it is browned, which takes about 5 to 7 minutes.
- Once the sausage is browned, add 1 medium diced onion. Cook until it softens, about 3 to 4 minutes.
- Next, stir in 3 cloves of minced garlic. Cook for just 1 more minute until you smell the garlic.
Preparing the Sauce
- Now, pour in 1 can of diced tomatoes with their juices and 1 cup of vegetable broth.
- Mix in 1 teaspoon of smoked paprika and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes. Bring this mixture to a simmer.
Cooking the Gnocchi
- When the sauce is simmering, add 1 pound of potato gnocchi. Stir well to make sure the gnocchi are in the sauce.
- Cover the skillet and let it cook for 5 to 7 minutes. This will make the gnocchi tender.
Final Touches
- After the gnocchi are tender, stir in 2 cups of fresh spinach. Cook for another 1 to 2 minutes until wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Finally, remove the skillet from the heat and let it sit for a couple of minutes to thicken. Serve it hot!
Tips & Tricks
How to Enhance Flavor
- Adjusting spiciness with red pepper flakes: Start with one teaspoon. Taste the dish. If you want more heat, add more. You can easily control the spice level this way.
- Using fresh herbs for garnish: Fresh basil adds a nice touch. It brightens the dish. Just tear the leaves and sprinkle them on top before serving.
Cooking Techniques
- Best practices for browning sausage: Use medium-high heat. Break the sausage into small pieces. Cook until brown, about 5-7 minutes. This gives a nice flavor and texture.
- Ensuring gnocchi is tender without overcooking: Add the gnocchi to the sauce and cover the skillet. Cook for 5-7 minutes. Stir gently to avoid breaking the gnocchi. They should be soft yet firm.
Serving Suggestions
- Pairing with side dishes or salads: This dish goes well with a fresh green salad. A simple arugula salad adds a nice peppery bite. Garlic bread also complements the flavors well.
- Recommended wine pairings: A medium-bodied red wine works best. Try a Chianti or a Grenache. These wines match the spiciness and richness of the dish.
Variations
Dietary Modifications
If you need gluten-free options, choose gnocchi made from rice or corn flour. These work great and keep the dish tasty. For a vegetarian or vegan version, swap the sausage with plant-based sausage or mushrooms. You can also use vegetable broth to keep it vegan-friendly.
Ingredient Swaps
Feel free to change the sausage type! Chicken or turkey sausage adds lean protein. If you want to experiment, try adding spicy chorizo for a kick. You can also toss in more veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms. These add color and nutrition to your dish!
Storage Info
How to Store Leftovers
To keep your Spicy Sausage Tomato Gnocchi Skillet fresh, start by letting it cool. Once it’s cool, transfer it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to three days. If you want to save it for longer, you can freeze it. For freezing, use a freezer-safe container. This dish can last in the freezer for up to three months.
Reheating Instructions
When you’re ready to enjoy leftovers, you have two great options. The stove method is best for keeping the texture. Just heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of broth or water, then add the skillet mixture. Stir until warmed through.
The microwave is quick, but it can change the texture. If using the microwave, place your portion in a bowl. Heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between, until hot.
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. To cook frozen gnocchi, add it straight into the simmering sauce. There is no need to thaw. The cooking time may increase by a few minutes. Make sure the gnocchi floats to the top to know it’s done. This method keeps your dish quick and easy.
How spicy is this dish?
The spice level depends on your taste. This dish uses spicy Italian sausage and red pepper flakes. If you prefer less heat, reduce the red pepper flakes. You can also opt for mild sausage. The beauty of this recipe is that you can adjust it just how you like.
What can I substitute for sausage?
If you want a different flavor, consider these options:
- Ground turkey or chicken.
- Vegan sausage for a plant-based choice.
- Crumbled tempeh or mushrooms for texture.
These substitutes keep the dish hearty and flavorful.
This blog post covered how to make a tasty dish featuring sausage and gnocchi. We explored key ingredients, step-by-step instructions, and tips for enhancing flavor. I shared ways to modify the recipe for dietary needs and offered storage tips for leftovers.
Cooking should be fun and easy. Don’t hesitate to experiment and make this dish your own. Enjoy the cooking journey and share it with others!
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