This gnocchi skillet brings together savory Italian sausage, bright bell peppers, and pillowy gnocchi. Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers is a comforting, easy skillet meal that works for busy weeknights and relaxed weekends alike.
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Skillet Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers
This skillet recipe packs classic, family-friendly flavors: tender gnocchi, browned Italian sausage, and colorful vegetables. It’s a one-pan dish that’s quick to make, satisfying, and easy to adapt—swap the sausage, add extra vegetables, or use homemade gnocchi when you have time. The bold combination of sausage and peppers makes this a go-to comfort meal.
Like other simple gnocchi recipes, this version relies on a few good ingredients: fluffy store-bought gnocchi (or homemade if you prefer), Italian sausage (sweet or spicy), onions, mushrooms, and a mix of red and yellow bell peppers. A can of petite diced tomatoes adds light tomato flavor without making the skillet soupy, and a finishing shower of Parmesan brings everything together.
Ingredients
- Italian sausage links – sweet or spicy, depending on preference.
- Olive oil – for sautéing vegetables.
- Yellow onion – diced; a sweet or yellow onion works well.
- White mushrooms – roughly chopped; optional for picky eaters.
- Colorful bell peppers – red and yellow (or orange/green), thinly sliced.
- Italian seasoning – or a mix of dried basil, oregano, and thyme.
- Petite diced tomatoes – one 15-oz can for a light tomato base.
- Gnocchi – 1 lb store-bought or homemade.
- Parmesan cheese – grated, for serving.
See the full recipe card below for exact quantities and nutrition details.
Instructions
1. Brown the sausages: Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage links and brown them evenly on all sides, about 3–4 minutes per turn until well-browned. Transfer to a plate and set aside.
2. Sauté the vegetables: In the same skillet, add a splash of olive oil, then the diced onion and chopped mushrooms. Cook 6–7 minutes until the onion softens and the mushrooms release their juices. Add the sliced bell peppers and the Italian seasoning; cook 2–3 more minutes until the peppers start to soften.
3. Combine and simmer: Return the browned sausages to the skillet and pour in the petite diced tomatoes. Stir to combine, cover, and let the skillet simmer for about 5 minutes so the flavors meld.
4. Add the gnocchi: Stir in the gnocchi and spread it evenly across the skillet so pieces don’t clump together. Cover and cook another 5 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and heated through. If needed, cook an additional 3–5 minutes with the lid on until everything is fully cooked.
5. Serve: Remove from heat and finish with grated Parmesan. Serve the gnocchi with sausage and peppers hot from the skillet.
Tips, Tricks and Questions
Can I use different sausages? Yes—try sweet, spicy, or even a chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option. Adjust seasoning to match the sausage choice.
Can I add more vegetables? Absolutely. Zucchini, spinach, or cherry tomatoes make great additions and boost the dish’s color and nutrition.
Is homemade gnocchi okay? Homemade gnocchi works wonderfully if you have it on hand. Store-bought gnocchi is a convenient and tasty shortcut.
How to make it spicier? Add red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage to bring more heat.
Quick tips:
- Even cooking: Spread gnocchi evenly to prevent clumping and ensure consistent texture.
- Brown the sausage: Browning sausages well adds flavor and texture.
- Customize: Finish with fresh basil or parsley plus Parmesan for brightness and aroma.
If you like this Gnocchi with Sausage Recipe you might also like:
- Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup
- Taco Rice Skillet
- Ground Turkey and Sweet Potato Skillet
- Easy Weeknight Sausage and Pepper Pasta
- Chicken Sausage and Tortellini Soup
- Crockpot Sausage and Peppers
Gnocchi with Sausage and Peppers
This comforting skillet features pillowy gnocchi, colorful bell peppers, and Italian sausages for a satisfying weeknight supper.
10 minutes
36 minutes
46 minutes
Ingredients
- 16 oz Italian sausage links
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 8 oz white mushrooms, roughly chopped (optional)
- 2 large bell peppers (red and orange), thinly sliced
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- 1 15-oz can petite diced tomatoes
- 1 lb gnocchi
- Parmesan cheese for topping
Instructions
- Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the sausages and brown on all sides until evenly golden. Remove and set aside.
- Add olive oil, diced onion, and mushrooms to the skillet. Cook 6–7 minutes until softened and fragrant.
- Add sliced bell peppers and Italian seasoning; cook 2–3 minutes more.
- Return sausages to the skillet and add the petite diced tomatoes. Stir, cover, and simmer for 5 minutes.
- Stir in gnocchi, spreading it evenly. Cover and cook 5 minutes, or until gnocchi is tender. If needed, cook an additional 3–5 minutes. Remove from heat and top with Parmesan.
Nutrition Information:
Yield:
3
Serving Size:
1/3 the dish
Amount Per Serving:
Calories: 951
Total Fat: 49g
Saturated Fat: 17g
Cholesterol: 132mg
Sodium: 1342mg
Carbohydrates: 86g
Fiber: 9g
Sugar: 13g
Protein: 43g
Nutritional data is automated and may vary depending on ingredient brands and substitutions.