Baked Gnocchi Stuffing with Sausage and Spinach

If you’re searching for a comforting and delightfully flavorful dish, look no further than this Easy Baked Gnocchi Stuffing with Sausage and Spinach. It combines pillowy gnocchi, savory sausage, and vibrant spinach baked together to golden perfection, creating a perfect harmony of textures and tastes that is sure to impress. This baked gnocchi stuffing is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners, holiday meals, or any time you’re craving something warm and satisfying.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Effortless Meal: This baked gnocchi stuffing comes together quickly with minimal prep, saving you time in the kitchen.
• Flavor Explosion: Each bite offers a perfect balance of savory sausage, tender gnocchi, and fresh spinach that keeps you coming back for more.
• Versatile Dish: It serves wonderfully as a main course or a hearty side, fitting seamlessly into any occasion or menu.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Warm, cheesy, and satisfying, this dish hits all the right notes for those cozy meal cravings.
• Family-Friendly: With familiar ingredients and a mild yet rich flavor, it’s a hit with both kids and adults alike.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that come together easily to create a complex and satisfying flavor profile. Each ingredient is key to providing delicious taste, lovely texture, or a pop of color in your baked gnocchi stuffing with sausage and spinach.

• Gnocchi: Choose store-bought or homemade potato gnocchi for a pillowy base that soaks up flavors beautifully.
• Sausage: Italian sausage, either mild or spicy, adds savory richness and a fragrant depth to the stuffing.
• Spinach: Fresh spinach boosts the dish with vibrant green color and a mild, earthy taste.
• Onion and Garlic: These aromatics build the flavor foundation, giving warmth and subtle sweetness.
• Cheese: Mozzarella and Parmesan provide creamy meltiness and a crispy, golden topping.
• Crushed Tomatoes or Tomato Sauce: Adds moisture, acidity, and a hint of sweetness to tie ingredients together.
• Olive Oil: For sautéing and enhancing overall richness.
• Seasonings: Salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and red pepper flakes for a balanced and exciting flavor profile.

Variations for Baked Gnocchi Stuffing with Sausage and Spinach

This dish is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to tweak ingredients or add extras to suit your taste or dietary needs. It’s easy to personalize this baked gnocchi stuffing with sausage and spinach for every occasion.

• Vegetarian Swap: Replace sausage with sautéed mushrooms or crumbled tofu for a meat-free version.
• Cheese Choices: Try adding ricotta or fontina cheese for a creamier texture and different flavor notes.
• Greens Upgrade: Substitute kale or Swiss chard for spinach for a heartier green element.
• Spice It Up: Add extra red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to kick up the heat.
• Herbal Flair: Fresh basil or oregano can replace dried herbs to brighten the dish with freshness.

How to Make Baked Gnocchi Stuffing with Sausage and Spinach

Step 1: Prepare the Sausage and Veggies

Start by heating olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove sausage from casings and crumble it into the pan. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 6 to 8 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside. In the same pan, sauté chopped onions and garlic until soft and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes.

Step 2: Wilt the Spinach

Add fresh spinach to the onion and garlic mixture, cooking until just wilted—this usually takes 2 to 3 minutes. Stir frequently to ensure even cooking and to retain the vibrant green color.

Step 3: Combine Gnocchi with Sauce and Sausage

In a large bowl, gently toss cooked or thawed gnocchi with the browned sausage, sautéed onion, garlic, spinach, and crushed tomatoes or tomato sauce. Add in seasonings like salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and a pinch of red pepper flakes to taste.

Step 4: Assemble in a Baking Dish

Transfer the gnocchi mixture to a greased baking dish, spreading it out evenly. Top generously with shredded mozzarella and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese to build that irresistible cheesy crust.

Step 5: Bake and Serve

Bake in a preheated oven at 375°F (190°C) for 20 to 25 minutes, or until cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown on top. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to allow the flavors to settle beautifully.

Pro Tips for Making Baked Gnocchi Stuffing with Sausage and Spinach

• Choose Quality Gnocchi: Fresh or high-quality store-bought gnocchi ensures a tender texture that doesn’t mush during baking.
• Drain Excess Liquid: If using canned tomatoes or frozen spinach, drain well to avoid sogginess in the stuffing.
• Brown the Sausage Well: Properly browning the sausage locks in flavor and prevents greasy texture.
• Don’t Overbake: Keep an eye on the oven to prevent the gnocchi from drying out or the cheese from burning.
• Add Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh parsley or basil right before serving adds a burst of freshness and color.

How to Serve Baked Gnocchi Stuffing with Sausage and Spinach

Garnishes

A sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley or basil leaves adds vibrant color and a bright herbal note. A dash of grated Parmesan on top right out of the oven also enhances the savory flavor beautifully.

Side Dishes

Serve this baked gnocchi stuffing alongside a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette or roasted seasonal vegetables for a well-rounded meal. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette also pairs perfectly to soak up any extra sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, bake individual portions in ramekins or mini cast-iron skillets. You can also stuff it into hollowed-out bell peppers or portobello mushrooms for a unique presentation that adds personality to the table.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover baked gnocchi stuffing in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This allows the flavors to deepen even more, making for a delicious next-day meal.

Freezing

This dish freezes well either before or after baking. If freezing before baking, assemble in a freezer-safe dish and cover tightly. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and bake as usual.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until heated through and the cheese re-melts, about 15 to 20 minutes. You can also microwave individual portions but expect a softer, less crispy texture.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly; just thaw it slightly or cook briefly before mixing to ensure even baking.

Is it possible to make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply substitute the sausage with mushrooms, plant-based sausage, or another favorite vegetarian protein.

What type of sausage works best?

Italian pork sausage, whether mild or spicy, is ideal for its rich flavor, but you can also use chicken or turkey sausage as a leaner option.

Can I prepare the dish entirely ahead of time?

Yes, assemble everything in your baking dish, cover, and refrigerate for up to 24 hours before baking for convenience.

How do I prevent the dish from becoming too watery?

Make sure to drain canned tomatoes well and squeeze out excess moisture from spinach to maintain the perfect texture.

Final Thoughts

There’s something truly special about a dish that comes together effortlessly but tastes like you spent hours in the kitchen. This Easy Baked Gnocchi Stuffing with Sausage and Spinach is exactly that kind of recipe — warm, flavorful, and totally satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this baked gnocchi stuffing will quickly become a favorite that you’ll return to again and again. Give it a try and savor every delicious bite!

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