One Pot Gnocchi with Sausage and Kale
Gnocchi with Sausage and Kale is the ultimate cozy dish that wraps you in warmth with its inviting aroma! Imagine a creamy, rich sauce melding perfectly with tender gnocchi, savory sausage, and vibrant kale, making every bite a delightful celebration of flavors. As you stir it all together, the first whiff of that garlic and fresh parmesan will have your mouth watering. You can almost hear the comforting chatter of friends and family gathered around the table, eager to dive into this delightful meal.
Table of Contents
I still remember the first time I tasted a creamy sausage and kale dish at my favorite Italian restaurant during a crisp autumn evening. The contrasting textures of the soft gnocchi and crunchy kale felt like a warm hug, instantly reminiscent of home. This One Pot Gnocchi with Sausage and Kale is my take on that comforting experience, and I’m thrilled to share it with you. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering, this recipe is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that’s super easy to whip up. Trust me, you’re going to want to make it again and again!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Simple & Quick: Whip this up in about 25 minutes without a mountain of dishes!
- Irresistible Flavor: The rich, creamy sauce paired with savory sausage creates a taste sensation that you won’t forget.
- Eye-Catching Appeal: Vibrant green kale against creamy gnocchi will brighten any table.
- Flexible Serving: Perfect for weeknight dinners, gatherings, or even meal prep for lunch.
- Diet-Friendly Options: Easily adapt with plant-based sausage or gluten-free gnocchi for your dietary needs.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 1 lb. mild Italian chicken sausage: Adds a savory, flavorful punch. For a spicier kick, use hot sausage or a plant-based version for vegetarian options.
- 2 tbsp olive oil: This helps sauté the ingredients to give them a beautiful golden hue. You can substitute with avocado oil if preferred.
- 1 cup onion (diced): Sweetens the dish as it caramelizes, making every bite irresistible. Yellow or sweet onions work best here.
- 4 garlic cloves (minced): A must for that aromatic flavor. Fresh is best, but jarred can work in a pinch.
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning: This blend of herbs elevates the dish’s flavor. Feel free to use fresh herbs if available!
- ½ tsp salt: Balances flavors, but always adjust according to your taste.
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour: Thickens the sauce to a luxurious creaminess. Gluten-free flour can also be used as a substitute.
- 32 oz. chicken broth: Use low-sodium broth for better control of salt levels; vegetable broth works too for a vegetarian option.
- ½ cup heavy cream: Adds richness and creaminess. For a lighter version, use half-and-half or coconut milk.
- 2 lb. gnocchi: The star of this dish! Fresh or packaged gnocchi makes preparation effortless.
- 1 bunch kale (chopped and stems removed): Nutrient-packed and beautifully vibrant. Substitute with spinach for a softer texture.
- 1 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated): The finishing touch that brings everything together beautifully! Pecorino Romano can also be an excellent alternative.
- Red pepper flakes to taste: A dash adds a lovely heat that perfects the dish!
How to Make One Pot Gnocchi with Sausage and Kale
Cook Sausage: Start off by heating a large, deep skillet over medium heat. Add the mild Italian chicken sausage, using a wooden spoon to break it up as it cooks. Keep an eye on it and stir until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5–7 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove it from the skillet, leaving any delicious drippings behind.
Sauté Vegetables: In that same skillet, drizzle in 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Add the diced onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Next, toss in the minced garlic, along with the Italian seasoning and salt. Sauté for an additional minute until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt—your kitchen is about to smell incredible!
Create the Roux: Now, it’s time for the flour! Sprinkle it over the onion mixture and whisk well for about a minute until it turns a light golden brown. Slowly pour in the chicken broth and heavy cream, making sure to whisk continuously to create a smooth roux; this mixture should start bubbling around the edges shortly after.
Add the Gnocchi: Once your mixture reaches a low boil, toss in the gnocchi. Cook it all together for about 2-3 minutes until they float to the top, which means they’re done. It’s already looking delicious, but don’t rush just yet!
Incorporate Veggies and Cheese: With the heat turned off, fold in the chopped kale and watch it wilt in just about a minute—such a vibrant color contrast! Finally, stir in that beautiful parmesan cheese until it’s melty and enveloping all the gnocchi and sausage with creamy goodness. Feel free to add a bit more cheese on top if you can’t resist!
Serve and Enjoy: To complete your masterpiece, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top for a little extra heat and, if desired, a generous handful of more cheese! Serve immediately and relish every heavenly bite of your **One Pot Gnocchi with Sausage and Kale**.
Storing & Reheating
This dish is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the gnocchi and kale dish for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to bring back the original creaminess. Keep in mind that the texture of the gnocchi might change a bit, but it will still taste delightful!
Chef’s Helpful Tips
- Avoid overcooking the gnocchi; they only need a few minutes in the broth until they float, indicating doneness.
- Use freshly grated parmesan for the best flavor and smooth melting.
- For creaminess, don’t skip the heavy cream; it makes a giant difference in the dish.
- If the sauce seems too thick, a splash of broth or water can help loosen it without sacrificing flavor.
- Feel free to experiment with different veggies, like carrots or bell peppers, to suit your taste buds!
Recipe FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! You can switch the mild Italian chicken sausage for pork sausage for a richer flavor, or try turkey or even vegetarian sausage for a lighter option. Each will lend a unique taste to your One Pot Gnocchi with Sausage and Kale.
Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, but with a few adjustments! You can use gluten-free gnocchi and substitute regular all-purpose flour with a gluten-free blend to thicken the sauce. Check labels to ensure all ingredients meet your dietary requirements.
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
While this dish is best enjoyed fresh, you can prep the sausage and vegetables in advance. Store them separately in the refrigerator, and then complete the recipe when you’re ready to enjoy your meal for a quick and easy dinner!
How can I make this recipe dairy-free?
To make a dairy-free version, use a plant-based cream alternative alongside nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor. Opt for a dairy-free cheese in place of parmesan, or simply skip the cheese altogether for a lighter take on this hearty dish!
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📖 Recipe Card
One Pot Gnocchi with Sausage and Kale
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Dinner
- Method: One Pot
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
Treat yourself to this mouthwatering One Pot Gnocchi with Sausage and Kale, combining creamy sauce, savory sausage, and fresh kale in a simple one-pan meal, perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings.
Ingredients
- 1 lb. mild Italian chicken sausage
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup onion (diced)
- 4 garlic cloves (minced)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ cup all-purpose flour
- 32 oz. chicken broth
- ½ cup heavy cream
- 2 lb. gnocchi
- 1 bunch kale (chopped and stems removed)
- 1 cup parmesan cheese (freshly grated)
- Red pepper flakes to taste
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat and cook the sausage until browned.
- Sauté onions in the skillet until soft, add garlic, seasoning, and salt, cooking briefly until fragrant.
- Sprinkle flour over the mixture, whisking to form a roux, then slowly add broth and cream, whisking until smooth.
- Once boiling, add gnocchi and cook until they float, indicating they are done.
- Turn off heat, fold in kale until wilted, and stir in parmesan until melted.
- Serve hot, topped with red pepper flakes and extra cheese if desired.
Notes
This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
For freezing, store in a container for up to 3 months and reheat with a splash of broth.
Experiment with different veggies for added flavor and nutrition.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 590
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 920mg
- Fat: 33g
- Saturated Fat: 14g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 46g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 25g
- Cholesterol: 85mg
