Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Eleganza

Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Eleganza is a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired dish that marries simplicity and taste in a wonderful symphony. This dish celebrates the essence of Italian cuisine with a medley of ingredients that come together to create a satisfying and memorable meal.

At its core, this dish features tender potato gnocchi, delicate dumplings that offer a pillowy texture, which are perfect for soaking up the flavors that follow. Gnocchi’s unique ability to absorb and complement the rich and savory notes of the dish makes them the ideal canvas for the culinary masterpiece that is Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Eleganza.

The star of this culinary composition is undoubtedly the ground Italian sausage. Whether you opt for mild or spicy, the sausage infuses the dish with a savory and robust flavor that elevates it to a new level of gastronomic delight. As it sizzles in extra virgin olive oil, it releases its aromatic oils, imparting an irresistible essence to the entire ensemble. The sausage not only adds protein but also delivers a hearty and satisfying bite in every mouthful.

Shallots and garlic form the aromatic foundation of this recipe. Finely chopped shallots are gently sautéed to a translucent perfection, contributing a subtle sweetness that harmonizes beautifully with the other ingredients. Minced garlic joins the shallots, lending its unmistakable fragrance and enhancing the overall flavor profile. These aromatic ingredients establish a solid base upon which the dish’s complex flavors can flourish.

The creamy sauce binds all the elements together. Crafted from a combination of heavy cream and chicken broth, this sauce is velvety and indulgent. It envelops the gnocchi and sausage, creating a luscious and cohesive dish. The creamy texture of the sauce elegantly balances the richness of the sausage, resulting in a harmonious blend of textures and flavors.

Grated Parmesan cheese crowns this culinary masterpiece. As it melts into the sauce, it imparts a nutty and salty undertone that elevates the dish to gourmet heights. The cheese seamlessly melds with the creamy sauce, ensuring that each bite is a creamy and cheesy delight.

For a touch of freshness and vibrancy, a combination of thyme and parsley is introduced. Thyme adds earthy and herbaceous notes that enrich the overall flavor, while parsley contributes a bright and fresh element. These herbs cut through the richness of the sauce and sausage, providing a balanced and aromatic finish. If you desire a hint of heat, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can be added to awaken the taste buds.

The preparation of this Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Eleganza is straightforward and convenient, with the gnocchi cooking directly in the skillet. This culinary delight effortlessly comes together in a single pan, minimizing cleanup and maximizing the enjoyment of a comforting and flavorful Italian-inspired meal.

Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Eleganza is a testament to the art of combining straightforward ingredients to create a dish that is both satisfying and memorable. It celebrates the essence of Italian cuisine while allowing each element, from the pillowy gnocchi to the savory sausage and the creamy Parmesan sauce, to shine in its own right. This dish is a delightful choice for those seeking comfort and flavor in one elegant and tasteful package.

BEVERAGE PAIRING SUGGESTIONS:

Here are three beverage pairing suggestions that elevate the experience of Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Eleganza:

• Chianti Classico: A classic Italian red wine like Chianti Classico pairs wonderfully with this dish. Its medium body, bright acidity, and notes of red fruit, cherry, and earthy undertones complement the richness of the Italian sausage and the creamy Parmesan sauce. The wine’s tannins help cut through the dish’s richness, creating a harmonious balance.
• Pinot Grigio: For those who prefer white wine, a crisp and refreshing Pinot Grigio is an excellent choice. Its bright acidity, citrusy notes, and hints of green apple provide a refreshing contrast to the savory sausage and creamy sauce. The wine’s light and zesty character won’t overpower the dish, making it a delightful pairing.
• Amber Ale: If you’re a beer enthusiast, consider pairing this dish with an amber ale. The malty sweetness and caramel notes of an amber ale complement the sausage’s savory flavors and provide a pleasant contrast to the creamy sauce. The beer’s effervescence can cleanse the palate between bites, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Eleganza

5.0 from 1 vote

Course: MainsCuisine: ItalianDifficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

15

minutes

Cooking time

30

minutes

Total time

45

minutes

Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Eleganza is a comforting Italian-inspired dish, where tender potato gnocchi and savory ground Italian sausage harmonize in a creamy Parmesan sauce, with fresh herbs adding a touch of vibrancy.

Ingredients

• 16 ounces gnocchi

• 1 pound ground Italian sausage

• 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil

• 2 shallots, finely chopped

• 3 cloves of garlic, minced

• 1 cup heavy cream

• 2 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup Parmesan cheese, grated

• 2 tablespoons thyme leaves, freshly chopped

• 2 tablespoons parsley, freshly chopped

• 1 teapsoon red pepper flakes

• to taste, salt and ground black pepper

Directions

• Cook the Italian Sausage:
  In a large skillet, heat the extra virgin olive oil over medium-high heat. Cook the sausage, breaking it apart with a spatula, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove any excess grease if necessary.
• Sauté Shallots and Garlic:
  Add the finely chopped shallots to the skillet with the cooked sausage. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the shallots become translucent and fragrant. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes.
• Cook the Gnocchi:
  Add the potato gnocchi directly to the skillet with the sausage, shallots, and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, using enough to cover the gnocchi completely. Stir to combine. Saute for 5-7 minutes, allowing the gnocchi to cook.
• Add Cream:
  Pour in the heavy cream. Stir to combine. Allow the mixture to simmer a few more minutes, until the sauce thickens.
• Add Parmesan Cheese, Fresh Herbs, and Seasonings:
  Sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese, fresh herbs, red pepper flakes, salt, and ground black pepper over the top of the mixture. Stir gently to incorporate these elements into the creamy sauce. Continue to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes until the cheese is fully melted and the sauce is creamy.
• Serve and Enjoy:
  Dish out your delicious Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Eleganza onto plates. Garnish with extra fresh parsley and Parmesan cheese, if desired.