Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time. Just cook according to package instructions before adding to the sauce.

How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked?

The gnocchi are done when they float to the surface of boiling water, usually after 2–3 minutes.

Italian chicken, turkey sausage, or plant-based alternatives are great substitutes to adjust flavor or dietary preferences.

Absolutely, sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or additional greens can be stirred into the sauce for enhanced texture and nutrition.

Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended to add a nutty, savory depth to the creamy sauce.

Use plant-based sausage or omit sausage entirely and increase vegetables for a delicious vegetarian variation.

A comforting, rich weeknight dinner featuring pillowy gnocchi, savory Italian sausage, and a velvety tomato-cream sauce.

Pasta & Dairy: 500 g (1 lb) potato gnocchi (store bought or homemade), 100 ml (1/2 cup) heavy cream, 40 g (1/4 cup) freshly grated Parmesan cheese
Meats: 300 g (10 oz) Italian sausage (mild or spicy) casings removed
Vegetables: 1 medium yellow onion finely chopped, 2 cloves garlic minced, 400 g (14 oz) canned crushed tomatoes, 100 g (3.5 oz) baby spinach (optional), 2 tbsp chopped fresh basil (plus extra for garnish)
Oils & Seasonings: 2 tbsp olive oil, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp chili flakes (optional), Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Grill meats and vegetables indoors with beautiful sear marks and easy cleanup using minimal oil.

Step 1:: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil.
Step 2:: Meanwhile heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat Add the sausage breaking it up with a spoon and cook for 4 5 minutes until browned and cooked through.
Step 3:: Add the chopped onion and cook until softened about 3 minutes Stir in the garlic oregano and chili flakes cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 4:: Pour in the crushed tomatoes add salt and pepper to taste and simmer for 5 minutes.
Step 5:: Stir in the heavy cream and reduce heat to low Simmer gently for 2 3 minutes until the sauce is creamy.
Step 6:: Add the spinach (if using) and basil stirring until the spinach wilts.
Step 7:: While the sauce simmers cook the gnocchi according to package directions until they float to the surface (about 2 3 minutes).
Step 8:: Drain the gnocchi and add them directly to the sauce Toss gently to coat and heat through for 1 2 minutes.
Step 9:: Stir in the Parmesan cheese adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot garnished with extra basil.

Grill meats and vegetables indoors with beautiful sear marks and easy cleanup using minimal oil.

Grill meats and vegetables indoors with beautiful sear marks and easy cleanup using minimal oil.

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?: Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time. Just cook according to package instructions before adding to the sauce.
→ How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked?: The gnocchi are done when they float to the surface of boiling water, usually after 2–3 minutes.
→ Can I substitute the Italian sausage with another protein?: Italian chicken, turkey sausage, or plant-based alternatives are great substitutes to adjust flavor or dietary preferences.
→ Is it possible to add extra vegetables?: Absolutely, sautéed mushrooms, roasted red peppers, or additional greens can be stirred into the sauce for enhanced texture and nutrition.
→ What cheese works best in this dish?: Freshly grated Parmesan cheese is recommended to add a nutty, savory depth to the creamy sauce.
→ Can I make this dish vegetarian?: Use plant-based sausage or omit sausage entirely and increase vegetables for a delicious vegetarian variation.

Keeps spices within easy reach while cooking, helping you season dishes quickly during everyday meal prep.