This Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Skillet is a hearty and flavorful one-pan meal that combines juicy Italian sausage, pillowy soft gnocchi, and a medley of colorful vegetables. This dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a delicious dinner on the table in under 30 minutes. The sausage adds a spicy kick, while the gnocchi and vegetables provide a comforting and satisfying base. With its easy preparation and tasty combination of ingredients, this skillet meal is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 yellow bell pepper, diced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 1 can (8 ounces) tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Fresh basil, for garnish
Directions
- In a large skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through. Break it up into crumbles using a wooden spoon.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes, until the onion is translucent.
- Add the diced bell peppers and zucchini to the skillet. Cook for an additional 3-4 minutes, until the vegetables start to soften.
- Stir in the diced tomatoes, tomato sauce, dried basil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and let it cook for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, prepare the gnocchi according to package instructions. Drain well.
- Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet and toss it in the sauce until well coated.
- Sprinkle the shredded mozzarella cheese over the top of the skillet and cover with a lid. Let the cheese melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Garnish with fresh basil and serve hot.
Interesting Facts
Gnocchi are small dumplings made from potatoes, flour, and eggs.
Italian sausage is a highly seasoned pork sausage often flavored with garlic, fennel seeds, and red pepper flakes.
This recipe can be easily customized by adding your favorite vegetables or using different types of sausages.