Woodsy Skillet Sausage Mushroom

Experience the cozy comfort of a Woodsy Skillet Sausage and Mushroom Gnocchi, where tender gnocchi meets earthy mushrooms and savory Italian sausage. This skillet meal brings together a creamy, fragrant sauce perfect for warming up any evening with its hearty, rustic flavors and easy preparation.

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This meal beautifully combines familiar American flavors in a way that feels both indulgent and wholesome. The creamy sauce embraces the tender gnocchi and mushrooms, while the spicy or mild sausage adds a satisfying meaty depth. The fresh spinach and thyme introduce delicate herbal notes, rounding out a dish that’s truly comforting during chilly evenings.

Ingredients

• Meats
  • 12 oz (340 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
• Vegetables & Aromatics
  • 8 oz (225 g) cremini or button mushrooms, cleaned and sliced
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 cups (60 g) baby spinach, roughly chopped
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• Gnocchi
  • 1 lb (450 g) potato gnocchi (shelf-stable or refrigerated)
• Dairy & Liquids
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) heavy cream
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) low-sodium chicken broth
  • 1/2 cup (50 g) grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

1.

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage to a plate and set aside.

2.

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon olive oil. Sauté the onions for 2 minutes until softened, then add the mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are golden and their moisture has evaporated, about 5 minutes.

3.

Add garlic and thyme to the skillet, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.

4.

Stir in the gnocchi, letting it toast slightly for 2–3 minutes.

5.

Pour in the chicken broth and cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return the sausage to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.

6.

Fold in the spinach and half the Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.

7.

Simmer uncovered for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the gnocchi are tender.

8.

Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan and serve hot.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

For optimal flavor development, be sure to brown the sausage thoroughly before setting it aside. Toasting the gnocchi briefly in the skillet adds a delightful texture and enhances the overall dish. Use an oven-proof skillet to allow for easy finishing in the oven if desired. Adjust seasoning carefully at the end, as the Parmesan adds saltiness to the sauce.

Varianten und Anpassungen

Substitute turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version that still retains great flavor. For a vegetarian variation, omit the sausage and add sautéed wild mushrooms with a pinch of smoked paprika to create a smoky depth. Adding a splash of white wine with the chicken broth can provide an extra layer of complexity.

Serviervorschläge

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This dish pairs wonderfully with a crisp Chardonnay or a rustic red wine to complement the creamy and savory notes. Serve hot as a satisfying main course, accompanied by a fresh green salad or crusty bread to mop up any remaining sauce.

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With straightforward steps and rich, satisfying flavors, this Woodsy Skillet Sausage and Mushroom Gnocchi recipe is sure to become a favorite. Its balance of creamy sauce, hearty meat, and fresh vegetables offers a memorable meal perfect for sharing and savoring on cozy nights.

Recipe FAQs

→ Can I use turkey sausage instead of pork sausage?

Yes, turkey sausage works well and provides a lighter alternative without sacrificing flavor.

→ What type of mushrooms are best for this dish?

Cremini or button mushrooms are recommended for their mild, earthy taste that complements the sausage.

→ How should I cook the gnocchi for best texture?

Toast the gnocchi in the skillet before simmering to add a slight crispness and prevent sogginess.

→ Can I substitute fresh thyme with dried thyme?

Yes, dried thyme can be used but reduce the amount to about one teaspoon to avoid overpowering the dish.

→ What wine pairs well with this skillet meal?

A crisp Chardonnay or rustic red wine balances the creamy sauce and savory sausage flavors nicely.

→ Is it possible to make this vegetarian?

Replace the sausage with sautéed wild mushrooms and add a pinch of smoked paprika to retain depth and smokiness.