Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage
Highlighted under: Baking & Desserts
Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender gnocchi with flavorful sausage and nutritious kale, all baked to perfection.
This dish is a fusion of flavors that come together beautifully. The chewy texture of gnocchi pairs perfectly with the savory notes of sausage and the earthiness of kale, making it a delightful meal any day of the week.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- Comforting and filling, perfect for a cozy dinner.
- Quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
- Versatile ingredients that can be adjusted to your taste.
A Perfect Comfort Food
Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage is the ultimate comfort food, delivering a warm and satisfying experience with every bite. The combination of fluffy gnocchi, savory Italian sausage, and nutrient-rich kale creates a dish that not only fills the belly but also warms the soul. It’s perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something hearty yet simple to prepare.
This dish offers a delightful balance of textures and flavors, with the soft gnocchi complementing the robust sausage and the slight bitterness of kale. As the ingredients meld together in the oven, they create a delicious harmony that makes Baked Gnocchi a favorite in any household.
Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner
One of the best aspects of this Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage recipe is its speed and ease of preparation. With just a handful of ingredients and under an hour of cooking time, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights when you want a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The straightforward steps ensure that even novice cooks can whip up this delicious dinner with confidence.
Simply cook the gnocchi, sauté the sausage and vegetables, combine everything, and bake. It’s a hands-off approach that allows you to tend to other tasks while dinner comes together beautifully in the oven.
Versatile and Customizable
Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage is incredibly versatile, allowing you to adjust the ingredients based on your preferences and what you have on hand. If you're not a fan of kale, consider substituting it with spinach or Swiss chard for a different flavor profile. You can also use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter alternative, or add extra vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms to enhance the dish further.
This adaptability makes it easy to cater to dietary restrictions or personal tastes, ensuring that everyone at the table can enjoy a satisfying meal. Feel free to get creative with the cheeses as well; swapping ricotta for cottage cheese or adding a sprinkle of Parmesan can elevate the dish to new heights.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound kale, chopped
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!
Instructions
Cook the Gnocchi
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float. Drain and set aside.
Sauté the Sausage and Vegetables
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
Combine Ingredients
In a large bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi with the sausage and kale mixture. Stir in the ricotta cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Bake the Dish
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Serving Suggestions
This Baked Gnocchi is delicious on its own, but pairing it with a simple side salad can add a refreshing contrast. A mixed greens salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish beautifully. You might also consider serving it with crusty garlic bread for a complete and satisfying meal.
For a cozy family dinner, serve this dish straight from the oven in the baking dish, allowing everyone to help themselves. It not only looks inviting but also encourages a relaxed dining atmosphere.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Leftovers of Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply place the desired portion in the microwave or oven until warmed through. If reheating in the oven, you may want to cover the dish with foil to prevent the cheese from browning too much.
This dish also freezes well. To freeze, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture and flavor.
Nutritional Benefits
This Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage is packed with nutrients, making it a wholesome choice for dinner. The kale not only adds a vibrant color but is also rich in vitamins A, C, and K, along with fiber and antioxidants. Pairing it with protein-rich sausage ensures a balanced meal that keeps you satisfied.
Moreover, gnocchi, made from potatoes, provides a good source of carbohydrates for energy. By choosing lean sausage and incorporating more vegetables, you can enjoy a comforting dish that aligns with a healthy lifestyle.
Questions About Recipes
→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the gnocchi and the sausage mixture ahead of time and store them separately in the fridge. Assemble and bake when ready to serve.
→ What can I substitute for kale?
You can substitute kale with spinach or Swiss chard if you prefer.
→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Yes, this baked gnocchi can be frozen. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container. Thaw and reheat when ready to eat.
→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works great for this recipe and saves time.
Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage
Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage is a hearty and comforting dish that combines tender gnocchi with flavorful sausage and nutritious kale, all baked to perfection.
Created by: Emily
Recipe Type: Baking & Desserts
Skill Level: Intermediate
Final Quantity: 4 servings
What You'll Need
Main Ingredients
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 pound kale, chopped
- 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 cup ricotta cheese
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
How-To Steps
In a large pot of salted boiling water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float. Drain and set aside.
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. Add the sausage and cook until browned. Stir in the chopped kale and red pepper flakes, cooking until the kale is wilted.
In a large bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi with the sausage and kale mixture. Stir in the ricotta cheese and season with salt and pepper.
Transfer the mixture to a baking dish, sprinkle with shredded mozzarella cheese, and bake in a preheated oven at 375°F for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden brown.
Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Total Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 10g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
- Sodium: 800mg
- Total Carbohydrates: 36g
- Dietary Fiber: 4g
- Sugars: 3g
- Protein: 20g