Comfort in One Pot: Creamy Sausage Gnocchi with Spinach & Cheese

You know those nights when you want something cozy, filling, and ridiculously easy to make? That’s exactly when One-Pot Creamy Sausage Gnocchi with Spinach & Cheese comes to the rescue. This dish is my go-to comfort meal—rich, creamy, and packed with flavor, all made in one pan with minimal cleanup. The combination of juicy sausage, pillowy gnocchi, and melted cheese creates pure weeknight magic. And let’s be honest—any dinner that feels like comfort food but takes less than 30 minutes to make is a winner!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s the ultimate balance between hearty and easy. The gnocchi cooks directly in the sauce, soaking up all that savory sausage flavor, while the spinach adds a fresh pop of green that makes you feel like you’re eating something wholesome. I love making this when I’m craving something rich but don’t want to stand over the stove all evening—it’s creamy, cheesy, and deeply satisfying.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish isn’t just comfort food—it’s got some good stuff in it, too! Spinach adds a dose of iron and vitamin K, while gnocchi provides those satisfying carbs for energy. Using Italian sausage gives you protein and rich flavor, and the cream and cheese can easily be adjusted depending on how indulgent you want to go. Plus, since it’s all cooked in one pot, you retain more nutrients than you would by boiling the gnocchi separately.

Tasty Variations to Try

• Spicy Kick: Use spicy Italian sausage or add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat.
• Lighter Option: Replace heavy cream with half-and-half or even evaporated milk for a lighter sauce.
• Extra Veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or sun-dried tomatoes for more texture and nutrition.
• Cheese Lovers’ Upgrade: Mix in some mozzarella or fontina for that extra cheesy stretch factor.

The Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 pound (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and black pepper, to taste
• Optional: red pepper flakes for a little spice

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or deep pan over medium heat. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon—about 5–6 minutes.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and cream, then stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the gnocchi directly into the pan (no need to pre-boil!). Stir, cover, and cook for 5–6 minutes until the gnocchi becomes tender and the sauce starts to thicken.
5. Stir in the spinach until wilted, then add Parmesan cheese. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
6. Let it simmer uncovered for 1–2 more minutes until the sauce is perfectly creamy and coats the gnocchi.
7. Serve warm and top with extra cheese if desired. It’s comfort in every bite!

Pro Tips for the Best Results

• Don’t overcook the gnocchi: They’re done as soon as they float and feel tender—overcooking can make them mushy.
• Add cheese gradually: Stir in Parmesan slowly to avoid clumping and ensure a smooth sauce.
• Want it extra creamy? Add a small dollop of cream cheese or mascarpone at the end.
• Storage: Keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to 3 days. Add a splash of milk or broth when reheating to bring back that creamy texture.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use store-bought gnocchi? Yes, absolutely! Shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi both work perfectly for this one-pot recipe.
2. What type of sausage works best? Italian sausage (mild or spicy) gives the most flavor, but you can use chicken or turkey sausage for a leaner option.
3. Can I make it vegetarian? Definitely. Swap sausage for plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms—it’s still rich and satisfying.
4. Can I freeze it? It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to a month. Just thaw and reheat gently with a bit of milk or broth.

Let’s Cook & Connect!

If you love quick, cozy dinners as much as I do, this One-Pot Creamy Sausage Gnocchi with Spinach & Cheese will become your new favorite. It’s creamy, cheesy, and full of that hearty flavor that makes everyone ask for seconds. 💛 Share your version on Pinterest—I’d love to see how you make it your own! Whether you add mushrooms, use spicy sausage, or sprinkle extra cheese on top, this dish is always a winner at the table.