Pin it A hearty, comforting skillet meal featuring pillowy gnocchi, earthy mushrooms, and savory sausage in a fragrant, creamy sauce—perfect for cozy evenings.
This skillet dish quickly became a family favorite on chilly nights because it combines ease with indulgent flavors.
Ingredients
- Italian sausage: 12 oz (340 g), mild or spicy, casings removed
- Mushrooms: 8 oz (225 g) cremini or button, cleaned and sliced
- Onion: 1 small yellow, finely chopped
- Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
- Baby spinach: 2 cups (60 g), roughly chopped
- Fresh thyme leaves: 1 tablespoon (or 1 teaspoon dried)
- Potato gnocchi: 1 lb (450 g), shelf-stable or refrigerated
- Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Low-sodium chicken broth: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
- Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g)
- Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper: to taste
Instructions
- Step 1:
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage to a plate and set aside.
- Step 2:
- In the same skillet, add another tablespoon olive oil. Sauté the onions for 2 minutes until softened, then add the mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are golden and their moisture has evaporated, about 5 minutes.
- Step 3:
- Add garlic and thyme to the skillet, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.
- Step 4:
- Stir in the gnocchi, letting it toast slightly for 2–3 minutes.
- Step 5:
- Pour in the chicken broth and cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return the sausage to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Step 6:
- Fold in the spinach and half the Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.
- Step 7:
- Simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the gnocchi are tender.
- Step 8:
- Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan and serve hot.
Pin it Gathered around the stove, my family always enjoys this warm meal that brings comfort and smiles on cold evenings.
Notes
Substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option or omit sausage for a vegetarian version by adding wild mushrooms with smoked paprika.
Required Tools
Large oven-proof skillet, wooden spoon or spatula, chef's knife, cutting board, measuring cups and spoons
Allergen Information
Contains wheat (gnocchi), milk (cream and Parmesan), possibly egg (gnocchi), and pork (sausage). Always double-check ingredients for specific allergen content.
Pin it 
This dish brings together simple ingredients for a flavorful meal that feels like a warm hug.
Recipe FAQs
- → Can I use turkey or chicken sausage?
Yes, substituting turkey or chicken sausage gives a lighter flavor while maintaining the dish's heartiness.
- → What type of mushrooms works best?
Cremini or button mushrooms add earthiness, but wild mushrooms can be used for a more robust flavor.
- → How do I prevent gnocchi from sticking?
Toasting the gnocchi in the skillet before adding liquids helps create a slight crust that reduces sticking.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Omit the sausage and replace with additional mushrooms and a pinch of smoked paprika to add depth.
- → What wine pairs well with this dish?
Crisp Chardonnay or rustic red wines complement the creamy, savory flavors nicely.
- → Is it possible to prepare this ahead of time?
Yes, cook and store in the fridge; reheat gently while adding a splash of broth or cream to refresh the sauce.