Name: One Pan Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Chicken Sausage Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil, divided; 4 to 5 chicken sausages, sliced (Italian or Spicy Italian recommended); 1 shallot, diced; 6 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning or dried oregano; 1 teaspoon kosher salt, divided; ¼ cup tomato paste; 1 ¾ cups low-sodium chicken broth, plus more as needed; ½ cup heavy cream or full fat coconut milk; 1 pound gnocchi (regular or cauliflower gnocchi); 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped (or 1 cup frozen thawed peas as substitute); 1-2 ounces grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish; ¼ cup basil leaves, julienned

Jump to Recipe· 3.9 from 4 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that effortlessly combines comfort, creaminess, and vibrant flavors all in one pan, you’re going to adore this One Pan Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Chicken Sausage Recipe. It’s a perfect weeknight supper that brings together pillowy gnocchi, savory chicken sausage, and a luscious tomato cream sauce, all boosted with fresh spinach for a pop of color and nutrition. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its scrumptious taste but also in its simplicity, making it an absolute joy to prepare and enjoy with your loved ones.

Ingredients You’ll Need

In the center, there is a white frying pan with a golden handle, inside which are small chunks of red cooked sauce mixed with pieces of browned onions spread unevenly. A wooden spoon coated with the same sauce rests inside the pan at a slight diagonal angle. Around the pan, on a white marbled surface, are a white bowl filled with fresh green spinach leaves at the top left, a white bowl with browned, round mushroom slices at the bottom left, a clear glass cup with light brown liquid at the top right, and a white measuring cup with white cream or milk at the bottom right. A few spinach leaves are scattered on the white marbled surface near the pan. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Each ingredient here plays a star role, making this dish rich in flavor while being incredibly simple to put together. From the juicy chicken sausage that adds a protein punch to the fresh spinach providing a nutritious lift, every component is essential to the harmony of this dish.

Extra virgin olive oil (2 tablespoons, divided): Adds a fruity richness and helps in browning the sausage and sautéing aromatics perfectly.
Chicken sausages (4 to 5, sliced): Choose Italian or spicy Italian for bold flavor that complements the creamy tomato base beautifully.
Shallot (1, diced): Brings a gentle sweetness and aromatic depth, softer than onions but equally essential.
Garlic (6 cloves, minced): Infuses the sauce with its unmistakable, pungent warmth.
Italian seasoning or dried oregano (1 teaspoon): Introduces classic Mediterranean herbs that elevate the dish’s personality.
Kosher salt (1 teaspoon, divided): Enhances every ingredient’s natural flavor without overpowering.
Tomato paste (¼ cup): Provides a concentrated tomato flavor and beautiful color that deepens as it cooks.
Low-sodium chicken broth (1 ¾ cups, plus more if needed): Forms the savory, flavorful base for the sauce and helps cook the gnocchi tenderly.
Heavy cream or full fat coconut milk (½ cup): Gives the sauce its signature creamy texture and richness.
Gnocchi (1 pound): These fluffy little pillows soak up the sauce perfectly, providing a tender bite.
Fresh spinach (3 cups, chopped): Adds vibrant green color and a nutritional boost, balancing the richness.
Grated Parmesan cheese (1-2 ounces, plus more to garnish): Offers a salty, nutty finish that melts into the sauce.
Basil leaves (¼ cup, julienned): Fresh and fragrant, they lift the dish with a hint of brightness and freshness at the end.

How to Make One Pan Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Chicken Sausage Recipe

Step 1: Brown the Chicken Sausage

Start by heating a tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sliced chicken sausage and cook until each side turns golden brown, about 3-5 minutes per side. This step is crucial because browning the sausage seals in flavor and creates those delicious caramelized bits that will add complexity to your sauce later. Once browned, transfer the sausage slices to a plate and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Build the Sauce Base

Add another tablespoon of olive oil to the same skillet and warm it up over medium heat. Toss in the diced shallots, minced garlic, and half a teaspoon of kosher salt. Cook them gently until the shallots become tender and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Next, sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and stir in the tomato paste. Allow the tomato paste to cook for around a minute so it deepens in color and releases those concentrated, slightly sweet flavors — this step really lets the sauce develop its rich character.

Step 3: Create the Creamy Sauce and Cook the Gnocchi

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while stirring to combine, then add the heavy cream (or coconut milk if you prefer a dairy-free option) along with the remaining half teaspoon of salt. Stir everything together before tossing in the gnocchi. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer and let it cook, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi become tender and have soaked up the sauce, roughly 3-5 minutes. If you want your sauce creamier or a bit saucier, just add a splash or two more chicken broth — this recipe is wonderfully flexible.

Step 4: Add Spinach, Sausage, and Cheese

Finally, stir in the chopped fresh spinach and the browned chicken sausage slices. Cook for an additional minute until the spinach has wilted into the sauce beautifully. The final touch is folding in the grated Parmesan cheese, which melts into the creamy tomato base, adding that hallmark salty punch that ties everything together perfectly.

Step 5: Garnish and Serve

Before digging in, sprinkle julienned fresh basil leaves and extra Parmesan cheese on top for a fresh, enticing finish. You’ll find these garnishes add an irresistible aroma and hint of herbaceous brightness, making your One Pan Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Chicken Sausage Recipe truly unforgettable.

How to Serve One Pan Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Chicken Sausage Recipe

The dish shows a bowl of soft, yellow-orange gnocchi covered in a creamy orange sauce with green herbs scattered throughout and a few finely grated white cheese flakes on top. On one side of the bowl, there is a piece of white flatbread topped with chopped green herbs. A silver spoon rests inside the bowl, partially submerged in the saucy gnocchi. All this sits on a white marbled surface. In the background, there is a white plate holding more slices of the herb flatbread. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil and a generous sprinkling of Parmesan are your best friends here. The basil brings an aromatic pop while the cheese adds savory depth and a beautiful melty texture. For an extra touch, a drizzle of good quality olive oil or a pinch of cracked black pepper will make each bite sing.

Side Dishes

This dish stands wonderfully on its own but pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or a crusty garlic bread that’s perfect for scooping up every last bit of creamy sauce. Roasted vegetables like asparagus or a simple lemony arugula salad add freshness and balance out the richness of the gnocchi.

Creative Ways to Present

For a casual dinner, serve this right from the skillet—comforting and inviting. If you’re impressing guests, plate the gnocchi neatly, garnish artistically with whole basil leaves and Parmesan shards, and serve in shallow bowls for a cozy yet elegant presentation. Adding a small bowl of chili flakes lets everyone spice things up to their liking.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce thickens as it sits, so be aware it might be a bit less saucy upon reheating.

Freezing

While freezing is possible, it’s not ideal for gnocchi as they can become mushy when thawed. If you must freeze, store the gnocchi separate from the sauce and reheat gently to maintain texture.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible, as this can toughen the gnocchi and make the sauce separate.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works brilliantly in this recipe and cuts down prep time. Just make sure to cook them until tender, as indicated on the package, since some brands differ slightly in texture.

Is it possible to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes! Simply swap out the chicken sausage for a plant-based sausage or hearty mushrooms, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The creaminess and tomato sauce remain just as delicious.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Definitely. Use full-fat coconut milk in place of heavy cream and select a vegan Parmesan alternative. The creamy texture stays intact, and the flavor is still amazing.

What’s the best type of chicken sausage to buy?

Italian or spicy Italian varieties offer robust flavor that complements the tomato sauce wonderfully. Choose high-quality sausages with minimal fillers for the best texture and taste.

How can I make the sauce thicker or thinner?

If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly or cook the sauce a few minutes longer. For a thinner sauce, add extra broth a little at a time until you reach your desired consistency.

Final Thoughts

This One Pan Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Chicken Sausage Recipe is the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy evening, delivering comfort and flavor without fuss. I encourage you to give it a try for your next dinner — it’s satisfying, easy to make, and sure to become a favorite in your household just like it has in mine.