Nothing beats the cozy comfort of a hearty, flavorful Italian dish that comes together quickly yet feels like a special occasion. This Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers Recipe is one of those gems. Tender gnocchi soak up all the vibrant flavors from savory Italian sausage, sweet bell peppers, earthy mushrooms, and a luscious tomato base, creating a symphony of textures and tastes that will make your taste buds sing. It’s a perfect weeknight dinner that doesn’t skimp on soul or satisfaction.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this recipe plays a starring role, creating layers of flavor, a wonderful mix of textures, and even a pop of inviting color on your plate. The simple components work in harmony to turn each bite into a delight.
- 16 oz Italian sausage links: Rich and spicy, they add a robust meaty backbone to the dish.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Essential to sautéing the veggies and adding a silky base for the flavors to meld.
- 1 onion, diced: Offers a sweet, aromatic depth that softens and caramelizes beautifully.
- 8 oz white mushrooms, roughly chopped: Adds earthiness and a meaty texture contrast that complements the sausage.
- 2 large bell peppers (red and orange), thinly sliced: Bring a sweetness and vibrant color that brighten the entire dish.
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning: A fragrant herb blend that ties all the flavors together with classic Mediterranean notes.
- 1 (15-oz) can petite diced tomatoes: Provides a tangy, juicy base that coats the sausage and gnocchi perfectly.
- 1 lb gnocchi: Pillowy potato dumplings acting as the comforting canvas soaking up every bit of sauce.
- Parmesan cheese for topping: Adds a nutty, salty finish that melts delightfully on top.
How to Make Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating a large skillet over medium heat until hot, then add the Italian sausages. Cooking them thoroughly in all directions for about 3-4 minutes per side seals in their juices and creates a beautiful golden crust. This step builds a rich flavor foundation—you want every side perfectly browned. When they look irresistible and cooked through, transfer them to a plate and set aside for the moment.
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Mushrooms
Next, pour in the olive oil to the same skillet to keep all those delicious browned bits from the sausage in the mix. Toss in the diced onion and mushrooms, cooking them gently for 6 to 7 minutes until the onions become tender and translucent, and the mushrooms release their savory liquids. The aroma filling your kitchen right now is pure magic and hints at the incredible meal on its way.
Step 3: Add Bell Peppers and Italian Seasoning
Now it’s time to add your colorful bell peppers and sprinkle in that Italian seasoning. Stir everything together and let it cook for 3 minutes, just enough for the peppers to soften slightly while still holding their freshness and crunch, blending with the herbaceous, fragrant seasoning.
Step 4: Combine Tomatoes and Sausages
Pour in the petite diced tomatoes along with any juices and return your browned sausages to the skillet. Give everything a good stir, then cover the pan allowing the steam to meld the flavors and warm the sausages through for about 5 minutes. This simmering step brings the whole dish to life and makes it irresistibly aromatic.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
Finally, add the gnocchi straight into the skillet. Stir well, making sure every little dumpling is nestled among the sausage and veggies. Cover again and cook for 5 minutes so the gnocchi cooks perfectly, absorbing the tomato sauce’s essence. If you find it needs a bit more time, simply cover and keep cooking for another 3 to 5 minutes. When the gnocchi is tender and the sauce is bubbly, remove from heat and top generously with Parmesan cheese before serving.
How to Serve Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese not only adds salty richness but also melts into the hot gnocchi, creating a luscious contrast. For a fresh pop, try a few torn basil leaves or a dash of cracked black pepper on top—simple touches that elevate the dish beautifully.
Side Dishes
This recipe shines as a full meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider pairing with a crisp green salad tossed in a light vinaigrette or a crusty Italian bread to soak up every last bit of sauce. Roasted vegetables or steamed greens can also add a healthy, colorful balance.
Creative Ways to Present
For dinner parties or family gatherings, serve this gnocchi dish in shallow pasta bowls, allowing the colors and textures to shine. Drizzle a little good olive oil or balsamic glaze over the top and place Parmesan shavings elegantly for an inviting, restaurant-quality presentation. Even a rustic cast-iron pan straight to the table adds a cozy, homey vibe.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you’re lucky enough to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge. They will keep well for up to 3 days, and the flavors may even deepen overnight, making reheated portions just as delicious.
Freezing
This gnocchi dish can be frozen, though the texture of gnocchi may soften slightly after thawing. To freeze, cool everything completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Gentle reheating is key to maintaining the dish’s wonderful texture. Warm leftovers in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of water or broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Heat until just warmed through, then serve with a fresh grating of Parmesan to revive the flavors.
FAQs
Can I use ground sausage instead of sausage links?
Absolutely! Ground sausage works just as well; cook it thoroughly in the skillet before moving on to the veggies. It will break up nicely and evenly distribute the sausage flavor throughout the dish.
What type of gnocchi works best for this recipe?
Traditional potato gnocchi is ideal for this recipe as it has the perfect light, pillowy texture that absorbs sauce beautifully. You can use store-bought or homemade gnocchi, just adjust cooking times if homemade.
Can this dish be made vegetarian?
Yes! Swap the Italian sausage for a plant-based sausage or extra mushrooms and season with smoked paprika or fennel seeds to replicate the sausage’s savory notes. The peppers and tomatoes keep the dish vibrant and flavorful.
Is it possible to make this recipe gluten-free?
Definitely, just use gluten-free gnocchi varieties, which are widely available now. Be sure to check your sausage ingredients or opt for gluten-free sausage to keep the whole dish friendly for gluten-sensitive eaters.
How spicy is this dish?
The heat level depends on the sausage you choose. Italian sausage can range from mild to spicy. Pick your favorite based on your spice preference, or add red pepper flakes if you want a little extra kick.
Final Thoughts
This Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers Recipe is a true crowd-pleaser—easy to make but impressive in flavor and texture. It’s the kind of dish you’ll want to come back to again and again for family dinners, casual date nights, or when you simply crave a warm, satisfying meal. Give it a go and enjoy every comforting bite!
Print
Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 36 minutes
- Total Time: 46 minutes
- Yield: 3 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This hearty Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers recipe combines tender gnocchi with flavorful Italian sausage, sautéed onions, mushrooms, and colorful bell peppers simmered in a tomato sauce. Topped with Parmesan cheese, it’s a comforting and satisfying stovetop meal perfect for weeknight dinners.
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
Pasta
- 1 lb gnocchi
Topping
- Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Cook the Sausages: Heat a large skillet over medium heat on the stovetop. Add the Italian sausage links and cook, turning every 3-4 minutes to brown all four sides evenly, about 12-16 minutes total. The sausages should be golden brown. Remove and set aside on a plate.
- Sauté Onions and Mushrooms: In the same skillet, add olive oil, diced onions, and chopped mushrooms. Cook for 6-7 minutes until the onions become tender and the mushrooms release their moisture.
- Add Bell Peppers and Seasoning: Stir in the thinly sliced bell peppers and Italian seasoning. Cook for an additional 3 minutes to combine and soften the peppers.
- Simmer with Tomatoes and Sausage: Return the browned sausages to the skillet, add the canned petite diced tomatoes, and stir. Cover the skillet and let everything cook together for 5 minutes to meld the flavors.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Add the uncooked gnocchi to the skillet, mixing well to spread them out evenly. Cover and cook for 5 minutes, then check if the gnocchi and sausage are fully cooked. If needed, continue cooking covered for another 3-5 minutes. Once done, remove from heat and serve with a generous sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
Notes
- You can substitute sweet Italian sausage with spicy if you prefer a bit of heat.
- Use fresh Parmesan cheese for the best flavor topping.
- If you want a thicker sauce, drain some of the tomato liquid before adding.
- Gnocchi can be store-bought or homemade depending on your preference.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and can be reheated on the stovetop.
