Description
A quick and flavorful Chicken Sausage Gnocchi Skillet featuring tender gnocchi, savory chicken sausage, and a rich sun-dried tomato sauce, complemented by fresh spinach and basil, and topped with Parmesan cheese for a satisfying one-pan meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Main Ingredients
- Avocado oil cooking spray
- 1 (12-ounce) package chicken sausage links, sliced
- 1 (16-ounce) package shelf-stable gnocchi (use gluten-free if needed)
- 1 (15-ounce) jar sun-dried tomato sauce (or 2 cups marinara sauce)
- ½ cup water
- 5 ounces (1 bag or carton) baby spinach leaves
- ¼ cup chopped fresh basil leaves, plus more for garnish
- ½ cup shaved or shredded Parmesan cheese (omit for dairy-free)
Instructions
- Preheat Skillet: Place a large skillet over medium-high heat. When the skillet is hot, mist generously with avocado oil cooking spray to prevent sticking and prepare for cooking.
- Cook Sausage: Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet. Cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally until the sausage is lightly browned, which enhances flavor and texture.
- Add Gnocchi and Sauce: Add the shelf-stable gnocchi and sun-dried tomato sauce to the skillet. Pour ½ cup water into the sauce jar, screw on the lid, shake to loosen the sauce remnants, and then add the water to the skillet. Stir everything to combine evenly.
- Simmer Gnocchi: Bring the mixture just to a simmer, then reduce heat to medium. Cook for 3-5 minutes until the gnocchi becomes soft and absorbs the flavors of the sauce.
- Add Greens and Herbs: Stir in the baby spinach and chopped fresh basil. Reduce heat to low, cover the skillet, and cook for 2-3 minutes until the spinach wilts thoroughly.
- Finish and Serve: Sprinkle shaved or shredded Parmesan cheese and additional fresh basil leaves over the top just before serving to add creaminess and a burst of fresh flavor.
- Store Leftovers: Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days to maintain freshness and flavor.
Notes
- Use gluten-free gnocchi to make this recipe gluten-free.
- Omit Parmesan cheese or substitute with a dairy-free alternative for a dairy-free version.
- Shelf-stable gnocchi is used here for convenience and easy cooking.
- For a spicier version, choose chicken sausage with added herbs or spices.
- Leftovers can be reheated gently on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to maintain moisture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian-American
Keywords: chicken sausage gnocchi, skillet dinner, quick meal, easy pasta recipe, sun-dried tomato sauce, spinach, basil, Parmesan cheese
