Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Skillet

If you’re craving a cozy, flavor-packed dinner that comes together in under 30 minutes, this Creamy Sausage Gnocchi recipe is your new weeknight hero. Made with pillowy gnocchi, hearty Italian sausage, and a rich tomato cream sauce, it’s a one-pan wonder that will have everyone at the table reaching for seconds.

This dish is warm, comforting, and indulgent without being fussy.

The gnocchi simmers directly in the sauce, soaking up all that savory, creamy goodness—no need to pre-boil!

It’s the perfect recipe for busy nights, dinner parties, or whenever you’re in the mood for something deliciously satisfying.

I first made this sausage gnocchi dish on a chilly Sunday evening when I was short on time but wanted a dinner that felt like a hug in a bowl.

I had a package of gnocchi and some leftover Italian sausage in the fridge, and inspiration struck—why not let the gnocchi cook right in the sauce?

The result was pure magic: creamy, rich, and comforting with minimal cleanup.

It’s now a regular in my meal rotation, and every time I make it, it reminds me of that spontaneous kitchen win.

Even better? It’s a hit with everyone—kids, picky eaters, dinner guests—you name it.

Why You’ll Love This

1. One-Pan Simplicity
This recipe comes together in a single skillet, making cleanup a breeze. No need to boil the gnocchi separately—the sauce and pasta cook together for maximum flavor and minimal mess. It’s a dream for busy weeknights or lazy weekends.

2. Rich, Comforting Flavor
Between the bold flavors of Italian sausage, the tender gnocchi, and the creamy tomato sauce, every bite delivers a savory punch. The touch of cream adds decadence, while garlic and herbs bring depth and warmth to the dish.

3. Quick and Easy to Make
In under 30 minutes, you’ll have a hearty, home-cooked meal that feels like it took hours. With just a handful of ingredients and simple steps, even beginner cooks can pull this off like a pro.

4. Customizable and Family-Friendly
This recipe is endlessly adaptable—swap in chicken sausage for a lighter version, toss in spinach for added greens, or make it spicy with crushed red pepper. It’s easy to tweak to suit your tastes or dietary needs.

Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Cuisine Type: Italian-American, Comfort Food
Servings: 4 servings
Estimated Cost: $12–$15 (depending on sausage and gnocchi brands)

Equipment Needed:

• Large skillet or sauté pan (with lid if possible)
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Optional: cheese grater (for Parmesan)

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
• 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
• 1/2 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for lighter version)
• 1/2 cup chicken broth or water
• 1 (16 oz) package shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi
• 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 cup fresh spinach or kale (optional)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
• Fresh basil or parsley for garnish (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until fully browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Remove any excess grease if needed.

Step 2: Add Aromatics
Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes. Cook for about 30 seconds, just until fragrant. This step builds flavor, so don’t skip it!

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce Base
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices), chicken broth, and heavy cream. Stir everything together, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan for added flavor. Let it come to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi in Sauce
Add the gnocchi directly to the skillet and stir to coat. Cover the pan (or partially cover if it’s bubbling too much) and let it simmer for 6–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through.

Step 5: Add Greens and Cheese
Once the gnocchi are soft, stir in the spinach or kale, if using. Let it wilt for 1–2 minutes. Then add the grated Parmesan cheese and stir until the sauce is creamy and well combined.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper. Spoon the creamy gnocchi into bowls and top with extra Parmesan and fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately while hot and bubbly.

Nutrition Facts (Per Serving – Approximate)

• Calories: 540
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 42g
• Fiber: 3g
• Fat: 32g
• Saturated Fat: 14g
• Sodium: 880mg
• Vitamin A: 20% DV
• Vitamin C: 15% DV
• Calcium: 15% DV
• Iron: 18% DV

Tips for Success

Use Shelf-Stable Gnocchi for Convenience
Shelf-stable gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe and cuts down on prep time. You can find it in the pasta aisle at most grocery stores. No pre-cooking required!

Let the Sauce Simmer Gently
Avoid boiling the sauce too hard once the cream and gnocchi are in—keep it at a gentle simmer. This ensures the cream doesn’t curdle and the gnocchi cook evenly.

Don’t Skip the Parmesan
Parmesan helps thicken the sauce and adds a salty, nutty flavor that ties everything together. Use freshly grated Parmesan if possible for the best melt and taste.

Customize the Heat Level
If you’re cooking for kids or spice-sensitive folks, skip the red pepper flakes. For heat lovers, try using spicy sausage or adding a dash of hot sauce at the end.

Common Questions

Can I use chicken or turkey sausage instead?
Yes! Chicken or turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative. Just make sure to cook it thoroughly and adjust seasoning since leaner sausages can be milder.

Can I make this dish dairy-free?
You can substitute the cream with unsweetened coconut milk or a plant-based cream alternative. Omit the Parmesan or use a dairy-free cheese for a fully dairy-free version.

How do I store and reheat leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or cream to loosen the sauce.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Frozen gnocchi can be used, but you may need to increase the cook time by a few minutes. Make sure the gnocchi are fully heated through and tender before serving.

Variations & Substitutions

• Make It Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add sautéed mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant instead for a hearty meatless option.
• Spicy Kick: Add extra red pepper flakes or use hot Italian sausage for a spicier version.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in roasted red peppers, sun-dried tomatoes, or peas for color and texture.
• Lighter Cream: Use half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter sauce. The result will be less rich but still delicious.

Serving & Pairing Suggestions

• Serve with Garlic Bread: Crusty garlic bread or a baguette is perfect for soaking up every drop of the creamy sauce.
• Pair with Salad: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the dish.
• Add a Glass of Wine: A glass of Pinot Grigio or a light red wine like Chianti pairs beautifully with this sausage gnocchi.

Storage & Reheating Tips

• Storage: Store cooled leftovers in a sealed container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This dish isn’t ideal for freezing due to the creamy sauce and gnocchi texture after thawing.
• Reheating: Reheat gently over low heat with a splash of cream or broth to restore creaminess.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, date night, or just treating yourself to something indulgent, this Creamy Sausage Gnocchi is sure to satisfy.

It’s rich without being heavy, quick without being boring, and comforting without being complicated.

Give it a try this week and see how it transforms a regular evening into something cozy and crave-worthy.

Happy cooking!