Amazing 1-Pan Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing.

Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing has become a cherished Thanksgiving staple in my home ever since I first experimented with it a few years back. I remember feeling adventurous, wanting to create a dish that honored tradition but also offered something unique. The aroma of sage and thyme mingling with savory Italian sausage and tender gnocchi baking in the oven instantly filled my kitchen with warmth and anticipation. This particular gnocchi sausage and herb stuffing recipe was born from that desire for something special, and it quickly became everyone’s favorite, often requested even outside of the holidays. The way the gnocchi gets perfectly crispy on the outside yet remains soft inside, soaking up all those incredible flavors, is just divine. Let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing

I genuinely believe this dish will become a new favorite in your home, just as it has in mine. Here’s why you’ll love making this incredible Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing:

• It offers a unique, savory twist on traditional stuffing, with tender gnocchi absorbing all the delicious flavors.
• This is an incredibly easy gnocchi sausage stuffing to prepare, perfect for busy holiday cooking or a comforting weeknight meal.
• The combination of Italian sausage and fresh herbs delivers an irresistible aroma and taste that will have everyone asking for more.
• Despite its gourmet feel, this easy gnocchi sausage stuffing uses readily available ingredients, making it budget-friendly.
• It’s a fantastic side dish that appeals to both adults and kids, making it a family-friendly option for any gathering.
• You get a wonderful mix of textures, from the crispy gnocchi edges to the juicy sausage and tender vegetables.

Ingredients for Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing

Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful dish. Here’s everything you’ll need for this savory Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing:

• 2 lb. fresh or frozen gnocchi – I find either works perfectly, just ensure they’re good quality.
• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided – plus a little extra for greasing your pan.
• Kosher salt – for seasoning at various stages.
• 12 oz. sweet Italian sausage, casings removed – this is key for a truly flavorful gnocchi stuffing with Italian sausage, providing a rich, savory base.
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped – about 1 cup, adding a sweet and aromatic foundation.
• 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced – for a subtle crunch and classic stuffing flavor.
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped – because you can never have too much garlic!
• 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh sage – its earthy notes are essential for that traditional stuffing taste.
• 2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme – complements the sage beautifully and adds depth.
• 3 cups packed baby spinach – wilts down quickly, adding color and nutrients.
• Freshly ground black pepper – to taste, enhancing all the other flavors.
• 2 large eggs – bind everything together for a cohesive stuffing.
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth – adds moisture and ensures a tender, flavorful bake.

How to Make Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing

Making this dish is surprisingly straightforward, and I promise you’ll find the process enjoyable. Here’s exactly how to make gnocchi stuffing with sausage, step-by-step, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.

1. Step 1: First, preheat your oven to a hot 450°F (232°C). This high heat is crucial for getting those gnocchi nice and crispy. Toss the gnocchi on a large baking sheet with 2 tablespoons of the extra-virgin olive oil, then season them generously with kosher salt. Make sure they’re spread out evenly; crowding will steam them instead of roasting them.
2. Step 2: Bake the gnocchi until they turn a beautiful golden brown and feel slightly crispy to the touch. This usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes. If you want super even browning, give the pan a shake or stir the gnocchi halfway through the baking time.
3. Step 3: While your gnocchi are roasting, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sweet Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon as it cooks. Stir and cook until it’s fully browned and no longer pink, which should take around 8 minutes. Once cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer the savory sausage to a large mixing bowl, leaving any rendered fat in the skillet.
4. Step 4: In the same skillet over medium heat, add your chopped onion and celery. Cook these aromatic vegetables, stirring often, until they soften and become translucent, about 8 minutes. Next, stir in the finely chopped garlic, fresh sage, and thyme. Cook for just about 1 minute more, until you can really smell those fragrant herbs. Add the baby spinach and cook, stirring occasionally, until it wilts down, which takes about 2 minutes. Season this flavorful vegetable mixture with salt and freshly ground black pepper, then transfer it to the bowl with the cooked sausage.
5. Step 5: Once the gnocchi is baked and has cooled slightly, add it to the bowl with the sausage and vegetable mixture. Gently stir everything together to combine all those wonderful flavors and textures. This is how to make gnocchi stuffing with sausage truly shine, by integrating all the components.
6. Step 6: In a separate small bowl, whisk together the two large eggs and the low-sodium chicken broth until smooth. Pour this liquid mixture over the gnocchi blend in the large bowl and stir everything gently but thoroughly, ensuring all the ingredients are evenly coated.
7. Step 7: Reduce your oven temperature to 350°F (175°C). Lightly grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with a little extra olive oil. Pour the entire Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing mixture into the prepared dish, spreading and stirring gently to distribute it evenly.
8. Step 8: Bake the stuffing in the preheated oven until the center is set and the top has a lovely golden hue. This usually takes about 40 to 50 minutes. Once it’s out of the oven, let it cool for about 10 minutes before serving. This resting time helps it firm up, making it much easier to scoop and enjoy.

Pro Tips for the Best Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing

To truly elevate your Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing from great to absolutely unforgettable, I’ve got a few secrets up my sleeve that I’m excited to share. These simple tricks will guarantee a perfect dish every single time you make it, whether for a holiday feast or a cozy family dinner. Trust me, these small adjustments make a huge difference in flavor and texture.

• Don’t overcrowd the gnocchi when roasting: This is crucial for achieving that lovely golden-brown crispness. If they’re too close together, they’ll steam instead of roast, leading to a softer texture.
• Use fresh herbs whenever possible: While dried herbs work in a pinch, fresh sage and thyme provide an unparalleled aroma and flavor that truly shines in this dish.
• Don’t overmix the stuffing: Once you’ve added the gnocchi and the egg-broth mixture, mix just enough to combine. Overmixing can lead to a dense or gummy texture.
• Let it rest: After baking, give your stuffing about 10 minutes to cool before serving. This allows the flavors to meld and the stuffing to firm up, making it easier to serve.

What’s the secret to perfect Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing?

The real secret to a perfect, flavorful Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing lies in roasting the gnocchi separately until crispy before combining it with the other ingredients. This step ensures each little pillow of potato pasta contributes a delightful textural contrast. It’s a technique I learned that truly makes this homemade gnocchi herb stuffing stand out.

Can I make Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can assemble the entire Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing up to 24 hours in advance. Simply cover the baking dish tightly with foil and refrigerate it. When you’re ready to bake, let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before popping it into the oven. You might need to add an extra 10-15 minutes to the baking time.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing?

To avoid common pitfalls, ensure your sausage is fully browned before removing it, as this builds foundational flavor. Also, make sure to not skip the step of roasting the gnocchi; it prevents a mushy texture. Lastly, taste and adjust your seasonings before baking to ensure your Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing has plenty of savory punch.

Best Ways to Serve Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing

Once your glorious Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing is out of the oven, the next delightful step is deciding how to serve it! This versatile dish isn’t just for special occasions; it makes a fantastic addition to many meals. I love serving it as the star side dish, letting its rich flavors complement simpler main courses.

For holiday meals, especially Thanksgiving, this makes for some of the best Thanksgiving gnocchi stuffing ideas. It pairs beautifully with roasted turkey, glazed ham, or even a succulent prime rib. I often serve it alongside green bean casserole and cranberry sauce for a complete festive spread. The savory herbs and hearty sausage in the gnocchi stuffing truly tie everything together.

Beyond the holidays, this Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing is wonderful with pan-seared chicken breasts or pork chops for a comforting weeknight dinner. You could even enjoy it as a light meal on its own, perhaps with a crisp side salad to balance the richness. Its robust flavors stand up well, making it a satisfying addition to almost any plate.

Nutrition Facts for Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing

I know many of you are curious about the nutritional breakdown of this delicious dish, especially when planning for holiday meals. Here are the estimated nutrition facts for one serving of this amazing Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing (this recipe makes 8 servings):

• Calories: 350
• Protein: 15g
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Cholesterol: 85mg

Please remember that these nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on the specific brands and ingredients you use for your Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing.

How to Store and Reheat Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing

One of the best things about this delicious Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing is how well it stores, making it perfect for meal prep or enjoying leftovers. After you’ve savored your first serving, allow any remaining stuffing to cool completely at room temperature. This is crucial to prevent condensation and keep it fresh.

Once cooled, transfer the Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing into airtight containers. It will keep beautifully in the refrigerator for 3 to 4 days. If you’re wondering, “can you make gnocchi stuffing ahead” for longer periods, the answer is yes! This dish freezes exceptionally well. For freezing, I recommend portioning it out into individual servings, wrapping them tightly, and then placing them in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will maintain its quality in the freezer for up to 3 months.

When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat the refrigerated stuffing in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, usually about 20-25 minutes. For frozen portions, thaw them overnight in the fridge first, then reheat as directed. You can also microwave individual servings for a quicker option, though the oven helps maintain that delightful texture of the Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing.

Frequently Asked Questions About Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing

What is Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing exactly?

Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing is a delicious and innovative twist on traditional bread-based stuffing. Instead of bread, it uses tender potato gnocchi, which are roasted to a golden crisp before being combined with savory Italian sausage, aromatic fresh herbs like sage and thyme, and often vegetables such as onion and celery. It’s then baked to perfection, offering a unique texture and flavor profile that’s both comforting and exciting. It’s a hearty side dish perfect for holidays or any special meal.

Can I use different types of sausage in this Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing?

Absolutely! While I love sweet Italian sausage for its balanced flavor, you can definitely experiment. Spicy Italian sausage will give your Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing a nice kick. You could also try a mild breakfast sausage for a different profile, or even a chicken or turkey sausage if you’re looking for a leaner option. Just make sure to remove the casings if they have them, and cook until fully browned.

What if I can’t find fresh herbs for my Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing?

Don’t worry if fresh herbs aren’t available! You can certainly substitute dried herbs for your Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing. As a general rule, use about one-third of the amount of dried herbs compared to fresh. So, for 1 tablespoon of fresh sage, you’d use 1 teaspoon of dried sage. The flavor will be slightly different but still delicious. I always recommend fresh for the best aroma, but dried works in a pinch.

Is Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing a good make-ahead dish for holidays?

Yes, it’s an excellent make-ahead dish! As I mentioned earlier, you can assemble the entire Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing a day in advance and store it in the refrigerator. This is a huge time-saver when you’re preparing for a big holiday meal like Thanksgiving. Just pull it out about 30 minutes before baking, and you’ll have a fantastic side dish with minimal last-minute fuss. It’s one of my favorite holiday hacks!

Variations of Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing You Can Try

While my original Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing recipe is a beloved classic, there are so many ways to customize it to your taste or dietary needs. I love experimenting with different flavors and ingredients, and these variations keep the dish exciting and fresh. Don’t be afraid to get creative in your kitchen!

• Vegetarian Delight: For a meat-free version, simply omit the Italian sausage. You can replace it with an equal amount of sautéed mushrooms, plant-based sausage crumbles, or even roasted butternut squash for a sweet and savory twist. This is a fantastic way to offer a delicious alternative at your holiday table.
• Spicy Kick: If you love a bit of heat, swap out the sweet Italian sausage for a spicy variety. You can also add a pinch of red pepper flakes along with the garlic and herbs to give your Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing an extra zing.
• Cheese Lover’s Dream: Stir in 1/2 cup of grated Parmesan or shredded Gruyere cheese with the gnocchi mixture before baking. The cheese will melt into the stuffing, adding a rich, savory depth and a wonderfully gooey texture.
• Mediterranean Twist: Introduce some Mediterranean flavors by adding sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, and a sprinkle of feta cheese. This offers a vibrant and tangy profile, moving away from more traditional gnocchi stuffing variations towards something uniquely flavorful.

Amazing 1-Pan Gnocchi Sausage Herb Stuffing.

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• Author: Margaret
• Total Time: 1 hr 25 mins
• Yield: 8 servings 1x
• Diet: Vegetarian

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Description

This Gnocchi Stuffing Recipe offers a savory twist on traditional stuffing, combining tender gnocchi baked to golden perfection with flavorful Italian sausage, fresh herbs, and spinach. Baked in the oven, this hearty side dish is perfect for holiday meals or comforting family dinners.

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Ingredients

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• 2 lb. fresh or frozen gnocchi
• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil, divided, plus more for pan
• Kosher salt
• 12 oz. sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 stalks celery, thinly sliced
• 4 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 Tbsp. chopped fresh sage
• 2 tsp. chopped fresh thyme
• 3 cups packed baby spinach
• Freshly ground black pepper
• 2 large eggs
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth

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Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 450°F. Toss the gnocchi on a baking sheet with 2 tablespoons of olive oil and season generously with kosher salt. Spread the gnocchi out evenly to ensure they roast well.
2. Bake the gnocchi until they turn golden brown and slightly crispy, about 20 to 30 minutes, stirring or shaking the pan halfway through if desired for even browning.
3. While the gnocchi bakes, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a wooden spoon, and cook until fully browned and no longer pink, approximately 8 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the cooked sausage to a large mixing bowl.
4. In the same skillet over medium heat, add the chopped onion and celery. Cook, stirring often until they soften, about 8 minutes. Stir in garlic, sage, and thyme and cook for about 1 minute more until fragrant. Add the baby spinach and cook, stirring occasionally, until wilted, about 2 minutes. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Transfer the vegetable mixture to the bowl with sausage.
5. Once the gnocchi is baked and slightly cooled, add it to the bowl containing the sausage and vegetable mixture. Stir everything together to combine well.
6. In a small bowl, whisk together the eggs and low-sodium chicken broth until smooth. Pour this mixture over the gnocchi blend and stir to coat all ingredients evenly.
7. Reduce oven temperature to 350°F. Grease a 13×9-inch baking dish with olive oil. Pour the gnocchi stuffing mixture into the dish, spreading and stirring gently to distribute evenly.
8. Bake the stuffed gnocchi in the oven until the center is set and the top is slightly golden, about 40 to 50 minutes. Let it cool for 10 minutes before serving so it firms up and is easier to serve.

Notes

• You can use either fresh or frozen gnocchi for this recipe; just adjust baking time slightly if using frozen.
• For a vegetarian version, substitute the Italian sausage with plant-based sausage or omit it entirely and add extra vegetables.
• Make sure not to overcrowd the gnocchi when roasting so they become crispy rather than steamed.
• Fresh herbs add the best flavor, but dried herbs can be used in a pinch; reduce quantities by half if using dried.
• This dish can be prepared in advance and reheated in the oven for a warm meal.

• Prep Time: 15 mins
• Cook Time: 1 hr 10 mins
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Baking
• Cuisine: Italian-American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 2g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 15g
• Saturated Fat: 4g
• Unsaturated Fat: 10g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 35g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 15g
• Cholesterol: 85mg