Creamy One Pan Gnocchi with Sausage and Zucchini Recipe

If you’re on the hunt for a comforting, speedy dinner that feels fancy but comes together with minimal fuss, I’ve got just the thing. My Creamy One Pan Gnocchi with Sausage and Zucchini Recipe is one of those meals that instantly became a weeknight favorite in my house. I absolutely love how everything cooks in one pan, meaning less cleanup and more time to enjoy your food (or relax on the couch!). Plus, the combination of tender gnocchi, savory sausage, fresh zucchini, and luscious cream is downright irresistible.

this Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients come together with surprising ease to create a creamy, hearty dish. Choosing quality sausage and fresh veggies really makes a difference, and your grocery trip will be quick and straightforward.

• Italian Sausage: I prefer mild for family meals, but sweet or spicy sausage work too—grab what you love or have on hand.
• Onion: A medium yellow or white onion works great, adding just the right touch of sweetness and depth.
• Garlic: Fresh garlic is key for that aromatic warmth—avoid pre-minced if you can.
• Zucchini: Fresh zucchini adds a light, fresh contrast to the rich cream sauce. Quartering and cutting into half-inch pieces cooks evenly.
• Diced Tomatoes: The undrained canned variety creates a flavorful base to the sauce—no extra chopping necessary.
• Water: Just a little to help everything simmer nicely without drying out.
• Potato Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi is a total time-saver here; fresh or frozen brands work fine.
• Baby Spinach Leaves: Adds a pop of color and nutrition, plus it wilts quickly to boost greens effortlessly.
• Fresh Basil: Adds that herby freshness—don’t skip it; it takes the whole dish up a notch.
• Heavy Cream: This is where the creaminess shines—feel free to choose lighter cream, but whole makes it rich and silky.
• Parmesan Cheese: Freshly shredded Parmesan melts best and contributes sharp, savory flavor throughout.

Variations

I love how easy it is to make this recipe your own! Whether you want to make it dairy-free, switch up the meat, or toss in whatever veggies are in season, it all works beautifully here.

• Meat Choice: I’ve swapped Italian sausage for spicy chorizo or turkey sausage with delicious results—try whatever suits your mood.
• Vegetarian Version: Replacing sausage with mushrooms or plant-based sausage works well and keeps things hearty.
• Veggie Upgrades: Adding bell peppers or cherry tomatoes adds color and fresh flavor—we do this often for a little twist.
• Lower Fat: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter sauce without sacrificing too much creaminess.

How to Make Creamy One Pan Gnocchi with Sausage and Zucchini Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Sausage and Onion

Start by heating your Dutch oven or a large deep skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and diced onions, breaking up any large pieces with your spoon or spatula. I like to let the sausage get a bit golden as I stir, about 5 to 6 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when the sausage is cooked through and the onions start to get soft and translucent. Trust me, this step builds the foundation of flavor you want!

Step 2: Add Zucchini and Garlic

Next, toss in the zucchini pieces and minced garlic. Cook for another 5 to 6 minutes, stirring occasionally. The zucchini should soften but still hold its shape, soaking up that delicious flavor from the sausage and onion mixture. This is when your kitchen will start smelling amazing—don’t let anyone distract you!

Step 3: Simmer Tomatoes and Water

Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with ¼ cup of water. Bring everything to a gentle simmer so that the flavors meld and the sauce begins to thicken slightly. I usually let it bubble for just a couple of minutes here to deepen the flavor—just keep an eye so it doesn’t dry out.

Step 4: Add the Gnocchi and Cook

Stir the potato gnocchi into the pan to coat them evenly. Then cover the pan, lower the heat to low, and let simmer for 6 to 7 minutes or until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through. I like to stir it halfway through to prevent sticking and make sure every piece gets saucy goodness. This is where the magic happens, turning simple ingredients into a creamy, luscious dish.

Step 5: Finish with Spinach, Basil, Cream, and Parmesan

Once the gnocchi is perfectly tender, stir in the baby spinach and chopped fresh basil. You’ll see the spinach start to wilt almost immediately, which is the perfect sign to add your heavy cream and Parmesan cheese. Stir it all together, then turn off the heat and cover the pan for 5 minutes. This resting time lets everything blend beautifully and thickens the sauce just right. Give it a final stir before serving!

How to Serve Creamy One Pan Gnocchi with Sausage and Zucchini Recipe

Garnishes

I like to garnish with extra shredded Parmesan cheese and a few fresh basil leaves on top—it’s simple but makes it feel like restaurant-quality comfort food. A little cracked black pepper kicked on just before serving also adds a nice touch of spice.

Side Dishes

This dish is pretty filling on its own, but if you want some extra veggies on the side, I often serve it with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with lemon vinaigrette or some garlic roasted broccoli. They add freshness and crunch to contrast the creaminess of the gnocchi.

Creative Ways to Present

For special occasions, I’ll plate the gnocchi in shallow bowls, drizzle a little extra cream or olive oil around the edges, scatter some pine nuts for crunch, and add a sprig of basil on top. It always impresses guests and makes the meal feel extra special without extra effort.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge, and they keep well for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it cools, so it can seem less creamy at first glance, but a quick rewarm fixes that right up.

Freezing

I don’t usually freeze this dish because the cream and cooked zucchini don’t always reheat perfectly, but if you want to, freeze it without the spinach and cream and add those fresh when reheating for better texture.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of milk or cream if needed to loosen up the sauce. Stir often to prevent sticking and keep it creamy.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy One Pan Gnocchi with Sausage and Zucchini Recipe has been a game-changer for me when I want a cozy dinner with minimal effort and maximum flavor. I love that it feels like an indulgent treat but comes together so quickly and easily—perfect for busy weeknights or when friends drop by unexpectedly. Give it a try, and I promise you’ll see why my family goes crazy for it (and why it’s become such a comfort food staple in my kitchen!).

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