Kielbasa Gnocchi Skillet: The Ultimate Comfort Food Recipe
Introduction to Kielbasa Gnocchi Skillet
This Kielbasa Gnocchi Skillet is a delightful fusion of flavors, combining the heartiness of smoked sausage with the comforting texture of gnocchi. It’s a quick and easy one-pan meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. With a medley of fresh vegetables and melted cheese, this dish is sure to satisfy everyone at your table!
A Personal Story Behind My Kielbasa Gnocchi Skillet Journey
Growing up, my family often enjoyed hearty meals that brought us together around the dinner table. Kielbasa was always a favorite, and combining it with gnocchi was inspired by my love for Italian cuisine. This recipe not only reminds me of my childhood but also allows me to create new memories with my own family today. It’s a dish that warms the heart and fills the belly!
What Makes This Kielbasa Gnocchi Skillet Recipe Special?
What stands out about this Kielbasa Gnocchi Skillet is its simplicity. In just one skillet, you can create a satisfying meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. The combination of smoked sausage, fresh vegetables, and creamy cheese makes each bite irresistible. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to sneak in some greens, ensuring you’re getting a well-rounded meal.
The Full Kielbasa Gnocchi Skillet Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound pre-cooked smoked beef sausage, sliced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- ¼ cup water
- 14½ ounces Italian diced tomatoes (1 can, undrained)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon parsley
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 15 ounces cannellini beans (1 can, rinsed and drained)
- 16 ounces gnocchi (1 package, uncooked)
- 1½ cups fresh spinach
- ½ cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese
- ¼ cup Parmesan cheese
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Don’t rush this step; the onion adds great flavor!
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add the sliced beef sausage to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is lightly browned.
- Now, stir in the diced zucchini, water, undrained diced tomatoes, oregano, parsley, garlic powder, salt, pepper, cannellini beans, and gnocchi. Mix everything well, then gently fold in the fresh spinach. It’s okay if the spinach is slightly wilted; it will cook more in the oven!
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the mixture. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This step creates a delicious cheesy crust!
- Once done, remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your meal!
Serving Suggestions and Variations for Kielbasa Gnocchi Skillet
This dish is fantastic on its own, but you can elevate it by serving it with a crisp side salad or some crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices. For variations, consider substituting spinach with kale or adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. You can also experiment with herbs; fresh herbs can enhance the flavors even more!
Frequently Asked Questions About Kielbasa Gnocchi Skillet
Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of the packaged kind?
Yes, fresh gnocchi can be used, but you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Is this dish freezer-friendly?
Absolutely! You can freeze leftovers for up to three months. Just reheat in the oven or on the stovetop.
Recipe Stats
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cooking Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Calories per Serving: 350
- Servings: 6
Kielbasa Gnocchi Skillet
Equipment
- Oven-safe skillet Used for cooking and baking.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 pound pre-cooked smoked beef sausage, sliced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 0.25 cup water
- 14.5 ounces Italian diced tomatoes (1 can, undrained)
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon parsley
- 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 salt and pepper, to taste
- 15 ounces cannellini beans (1 can, rinsed and drained)
- 16 ounces gnocchi (1 package, uncooked)
- 1.5 cups fresh spinach
- 0.5 cup freshly grated mozzarella cheese
- 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese
- 1 fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until softened. Don’t rush this step; the onion adds great flavor!
- Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, being careful not to let it burn.
- Add the sliced beef sausage to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is lightly browned.
- Now, stir in the diced zucchini, water, undrained diced tomatoes, oregano, parsley, garlic powder, salt, pepper, cannellini beans, and gnocchi. Mix everything well, then gently fold in the fresh spinach. It’s okay if the spinach is slightly wilted; it will cook more in the oven!
- Sprinkle the mozzarella and Parmesan cheese on top of the mixture. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly. This step creates a delicious cheesy crust!
- Once done, remove from the oven, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve warm. Enjoy your meal!