Introduction
Discover a delightful and comforting dish that combines the rich flavors of Italian sausage, creamy sauce, and pillowy potato gnocchi. This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or entertaining guests, bringing together simple ingredients into a delicious meal that everyone will love.
Detailed Ingredients with measures
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage, casing removed
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup dry white wine
1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
1/2 cup heavy cream
1 pound potato gnocchi
2 cups baby spinach
1/4 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Fresh basil leaves, for garnish
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Directions
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, approximately 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
4. Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the wine to reduce by half, about 2 minutes.
5. Add the diced tomatoes with their juices and the heavy cream; stir to combine.
6. Stir in the uncooked gnocchi, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook until the gnocchi are tender, about 5 minutes.
7. Uncover and add the baby spinach, stirring until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
8. Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce has thickened.
9. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Sauté the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
Step 2: Cook the Onion
Add the diced onion to the skillet and cook until translucent, approximately 3 minutes.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasonings
Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes; cook until fragrant, about 1 minute.
Step 4: Pour in the White Wine
Pour in the white wine, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet. Allow the wine to reduce by half, about 2 minutes.
Step 5: Incorporate Tomatoes and Cream
Add the diced tomatoes with their juices and the heavy cream; stir to combine.
Step 6: Add Gnocchi
Stir in the uncooked gnocchi, ensuring they are submerged in the sauce. Bring the mixture to a simmer, cover, and cook until the gnocchi are tender, about 5 minutes.
Step 7: Add Spinach
Uncover and add the baby spinach, stirring until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
Step 8: Mix in Parmesan Cheese
Stir in the Parmesan cheese until melted and the sauce has thickened.
Step 9: Season to Taste
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste.
Step 10: Garnish and Serve
Garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.
Notes
Ingredient Variations
Feel free to substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a leaner option.
Storage Instructions
This dish can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Serving Suggestions
Serve this dish with a side of crusty bread to soak up the sauce.
Freezing Instructions
This dish can be frozen, but it’s recommended to undercook the gnocchi slightly to prevent them from becoming mushy upon reheating.
Wine Pairing
Pair with a chilled dry white wine for a complementary taste experience.
Cook techniques
Cooking Italian Sausage
Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat, then add the Italian sausage. Break it apart with a spoon and cook until it’s browned for added flavor.
Sautéing Aromatics
Once the sausage is browned, add diced onion and cook until it becomes translucent. Follow with minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes, cooking until fragrant to enhance the dish’s flavor profile.
Deglazing the Pan
Pour white wine into the skillet, scraping any brown bits stuck to the bottom. This step adds depth to the sauce and enhances the overall flavor.
Combining Ingredients
Add diced tomatoes and heavy cream to the skillet, stirring to create a cohesive sauce. This forms a rich base for the gnocchi and other ingredients.
Cooking Gnocchi
Stir in uncooked gnocchi, ensuring they are well submerged in the sauce. Cover and simmer until the gnocchi are tender, absorbing the flavors from the sauce.
Wilting Spinach
Uncover the skillet and add baby spinach, stirring until it wilts. This step not only incorporates nutrients but also adds color to the dish.
Thickening the Sauce
Stir in freshly grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and integrates into the sauce, thickening it and adding creaminess.
Final Seasoning
Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to enhance flavors right before serving.
FAQ
Can I substitute the Italian sausage?
Yes, you can use other types of sausage or even vegetarian sausage for a different flavor profile.
What wine should I use for deglazing?
A dry white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio works well for deglazing and enhances the dish’s flavor.
Is there a gluten-free option for gnocchi?
Yes, look for gluten-free gnocchi made with alternative flours or potato-based options available in stores.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Use about 2-3 fresh tomatoes, diced, instead of the canned variety for a fresher taste.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce for more heat.
What can I use instead of heavy cream?
For a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or cream if needed.
Can I freeze this dish?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze it without the spinach. Add it fresh when reheating after thawing for better texture.
Conclusion
This creamy Italian sausage and gnocchi dish is a delightful combination of flavors, with the Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes bringing warmth and zest. The heaviness of the cream balances the savory meat and the freshness of the spinach, while the addition of Parmesan enhances the creaminess. This hearty meal is not only quick to prepare but also satisfies the cravings for comfort food.
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