If you are craving a dish that feels like a warm hug on a plate, then this Gnocchi with Sausage, Peppers, and Tomato Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need. Picture tender gnocchi pillows swimming in a savory tomato sauce, dotted with colorful bell peppers and hearty Italian sausage that have been lovingly browned to perfection. The blend of flavors is comfort food at its finest, making this recipe a guaranteed crowd-pleaser that you’ll want to make over and over again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, from the spicy Italian sausage that adds rich depth to the dish, to the vibrant bell peppers that bring a pop of color and freshness. These straightforward but essential ingredients come together to create layers of taste and textures that make this meal truly special.
- 16 oz Italian sausage links: Opt for good-quality sausages for the best flavor and a perfect balance of fat and spice.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps sauté the veggies to golden perfection while adding a silky finish.
- 1 onion, diced: Adds sweetness and depth as it softens and caramelizes.
- 8 oz white mushrooms, roughly chopped: Introduce an earthy note and meaty texture that pairs wonderfully with sausage.
- 2 large colorful bell peppers (red and orange), thinly sliced: These brighten the dish with their sweetness and vibrant hues.
- 2 teaspoons Italian Seasoning: A fragrant mix of herbs that ties all the components together.
- 1 15-oz can of petite diced tomatoes: Forms the rich tomato base of the sauce that’s both fresh and comforting.
- 1 lb gnocchi: Tender potato dumplings that soak up the sauce beautifully for a melt-in-your-mouth experience.
- Parmesan cheese for topping: Finishes the dish with a salty, nutty burst of flavor.
How to Make Gnocchi with Sausage, Peppers, and Tomato Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat, then add the Italian sausage links. Cook them patiently, turning every 3 to 4 minutes to brown evenly on all four sides. This careful browning step locks in flavor and gives the sausage a beautiful caramelized crust. Once browned, transfer the sausages to a plate and set them aside to rest.
Step 2: Sauté Onions and Mushrooms
In the same skillet, add the olive oil followed by diced onions and chopped mushrooms. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes until the onions soften and the mushrooms release their juices, creating a deliciously savory base that complements the sausage perfectly.
Step 3: Add Bell Peppers and Italian Seasoning
Next, toss in the thinly sliced bell peppers and sprinkle the Italian seasoning over the mixture. Cook everything together for about 3 minutes, just enough to soften the peppers slightly while keeping their vibrant color and sweet crunch.
Step 4: Incorporate Tomatoes and Sausage
Pour in the petite diced tomatoes and return the browned sausages to the skillet. Give everything a good stir, then cover and let it cook for 5 minutes so the flavors blend and the sausages finish cooking through.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
Finally, add the gnocchi to the skillet, breaking them apart gently while mixing them into the sauce. Cover and cook for 5 more minutes or until the gnocchi are tender and cooked through. If the sauce or gnocchi needs a little extra time, cover and continue cooking up to 5 additional minutes. When done, remove from heat and plate the dish, generously topping each serving with Parmesan cheese.
How to Serve Gnocchi with Sausage, Peppers, and Tomato Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and flavor, sprinkle freshly chopped basil or parsley over the dish. A little cracked black pepper and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese add a lovely finishing touch and invite everyone at the table to dig right in.
Side Dishes
This hearty gnocchi meal pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon vinaigrette or a basket of warm, crusty bread to soak up the luscious tomato sauce. Roasted vegetables also make a fantastic addition, adding both color and nutrients to the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the gnocchi in rustic bowls or oven-safe dishes and top with a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil for a glossy finish. For a fun twist, portion out the gnocchi into mini cast iron skillets or a family-style serving platter at your next dinner party to encourage sharing and conversation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover gnocchi with sausage, peppers, and tomato sauce into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The dish tastes even better the next day, as the flavors have even more time to meld.
Freezing
If you want to save some for longer, this dish freezes very well. Simply cool completely, then transfer into freezer-safe containers or bags. Freeze for up to 2 months. To avoid mushiness, it’s best to freeze before adding the Parmesan cheese.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave in short bursts, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of water or broth if the sauce seems too thick. Top with fresh Parmesan after reheating for a fresh finish.
FAQs
Can I use a different type of sausage for this recipe?
Absolutely! You can swap Italian sausage for spicy chorizo, sweet sausage, or even a plant-based sausage if you want a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as needed.
Is fresh gnocchi better than store-bought for this dish?
Fresh gnocchi usually has a lighter texture, but store-bought works wonderfully and saves time. Just make sure to cook according to package instructions for best results.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes! Use gluten-free gnocchi and double-check that your sausage and seasoning blends are gluten-free for a safe and tasty gluten-free meal.
How spicy is this dish?
The spiciness depends on the type of sausage used. Italian sausage can range from mild to spicy, so choose based on your preference or balance with extra bell peppers to mellow heat.
What can I use instead of Parmesan cheese?
If you want a dairy-free or vegan alternative, nutritional yeast or a sprinkle of vegan cheese can provide a similar nutty flavor without dairy.
Final Thoughts
This Gnocchi with Sausage, Peppers, and Tomato Sauce Recipe is a truly satisfying and flavorful dish that brings a splash of color and lots of comfort to your dinner table. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, it’s a recipe that’s easy enough for a weeknight but special enough to impress. Give it a try—you might just find your new favorite meal!
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Gnocchi with Sausage, Peppers, and Tomato Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 36 minutes
- Total Time: 46 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
A hearty and comforting dish featuring tender gnocchi cooked with Italian sausage, colorful bell peppers, mushrooms, and a flavorful tomato sauce, topped with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for an easy yet delicious weeknight meal.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 16 oz Italian sausage links
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 8 oz white mushrooms, roughly chopped
- 2 large colorful bell peppers (red and orange), thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 15-oz can petite diced tomatoes
Gnocchi and Toppings
- 1 lb gnocchi
- Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Cook the Sausages: Heat a large skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. Add the sausage links and cook for 3-4 minutes on each side, turning to brown all four sides thoroughly. Once browned, transfer the sausages to a plate and set aside.
- Sauté the Onions and Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add the olive oil, diced onion, and chopped mushrooms. Cook for 6 to 7 minutes until the onions become tender and the mushrooms release their liquid.
- Add Bell Peppers and Seasoning: Add the thinly sliced bell peppers and Italian seasoning to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3 minutes while stirring occasionally.
- Combine Tomatoes and Sausage: Pour in the petite diced tomatoes, then return the browned sausages to the skillet. Stir everything well, cover the skillet, and let cook for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the skillet and spread them out evenly. Cover and cook for 5 minutes. Check doneness and if needed, cover and continue cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes until the gnocchi is fully cooked and the sausages are heated through.
- Serve: Remove from heat and serve immediately, topped generously with Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- You can substitute Italian sausage with turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
- If you prefer a spicier dish, use spicy Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes.
- Make sure not to overcrowd the pan while cooking the sausages to get a nice brown crust.
- For a gluten-free option, use gluten-free gnocchi.
- Leftover gnocchi dish can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated on the stovetop or microwave.
