This Chicken Sausage Gnocchi Skillet is a comforting, flavorful dinner that brings together soft ricotta gnocchi, browned chicken sausage, and tender broccoli in a rich garlic-butter sauce.
Ready in approximately 40 minutes, this one-pan-style meal is ideal for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without complicated preparation.
The recipe combines simple cooking techniques to create a creamy, savory coating for the gnocchi. Browning the sausage with onion and garlic adds depth, while steamed broccoli provides a fresh vegetable component.
With 431 calories and 15 grams of protein per serving, this dish makes a hearty meal for four.
Recipe Details
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 4
- Cuisine: Italian-inspired
- Cooking Method: Boiling, steaming, and sautéing
- Calories: 431 per serving
Ingredients
For the Gnocchi and Sausage
- 8 ounces ricotta cheese gnocchi
- 2 chicken sausage links, sliced into rounds
- 2 cups fresh broccoli florets
- 2 tablespoons diced onion, divided
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic, divided
- 1 teaspoon butter
- Salt and ground black pepper, to taste
For the Garlic-Butter Sauce
- ½ cup butter
- 2 teaspoons all-purpose flour
Equipment Needed
- Large pot for boiling gnocchi
- Saucepan with a steamer insert
- Large skillet for sausage and vegetables
- Second skillet for the sauce
- Colander
- Wooden spoon
- Knife and cutting board
How to Make Chicken Sausage Gnocchi Skillet
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a large pot of lightly salted water to a rolling boil. Add the ricotta gnocchi and cook for approximately 2–4 minutes, or until the dumplings float to the surface. Avoid boiling them longer than necessary, as overcooked gnocchi can become too soft.
Drain the dumplings thoroughly in a colander and set them aside while preparing the remaining ingredients.
Step 2: Steam the Broccoli
Pour water into a saucepan, keeping the level below the steamer insert. Bring the water to a boil, then arrange the broccoli florets in the steamer basket.
Cover the saucepan and steam for 4–5 minutes, until the broccoli is tender but still holds its shape. Remove the broccoli, drain any excess water, and keep it warm.
Step 3: Brown the Chicken Sausage
Heat one teaspoon of butter in a large skillet over medium heat. Add one tablespoon of diced onion and one teaspoon of minced garlic. Sauté for about two minutes, stirring regularly until fragrant and softened.
Add the sliced chicken sausage to the skillet. Cook for approximately five minutes, turning the pieces occasionally so they brown evenly on both sides.
Once the sausage is heated through and lightly browned, add the steamed broccoli and gently stir to combine.
Step 4: Prepare the Garlic-Butter Sauce
Place a second skillet over medium heat and melt the remaining butter. Add the remaining tablespoon of diced onion, two teaspoons of minced garlic, and the all-purpose flour.
Stir continuously for 2–3 minutes, allowing the flour to cook and the mixture to develop a lightly browned color. This creates a roux that helps give the sauce its rich consistency.
Keep the heat moderate and avoid letting the garlic burn, as this can make the finished sauce taste bitter.
Step 5: Coat the Gnocchi
Add the drained gnocchi directly to the skillet containing the garlic-butter sauce. Gently stir until the dumplings are evenly coated.
Transfer the sauced gnocchi to the skillet with the browned sausage and broccoli. Toss everything together carefully so the ingredients are distributed throughout the dish without breaking the soft dumplings.
Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Serve immediately while warm.
Helpful Cooking Tips
- Avoid overcooking the gnocchi: Remove the dumplings as soon as they float to the surface. This helps them retain their soft yet slightly firm texture.
- Cut the sausage evenly: Similar-sized slices brown at a more consistent rate and make the finished skillet easier to serve.
- Cook the roux carefully: Stir constantly while combining the butter and flour to prevent scorching and uneven browning.
- Keep the broccoli slightly firm: Steaming it until just tender helps it maintain its texture when mixed with the warm sauce.
- Prepare ingredients in advance: Slice the sausage, chop the onion, and mince the garlic before starting. This makes the cooking process easier to manage.
Variations and Substitutions
Add a Little Heat
For a spicier version, add chili powder to the butter sauce while the roux cooks. Adjust the quantity according to your preferred level of heat. Red pepper flakes can also be used for a more pronounced spicy flavor.
Make It Gluten-Free
Use certified gluten-free gnocchi and replace the all-purpose flour with rice flour. Check the sausage packaging and other ingredient labels to ensure they are suitable for your dietary requirements.
Try Ghee Instead of Butter
Ghee can replace the butter in the sauce if you prefer its distinct flavor. Use the same quantity and follow the same preparation steps, taking care not to overheat it.
Serve the Broccoli Separately
If you prefer to keep the vegetables separate, arrange the steamed broccoli on the side instead of mixing it into the sausage skillet. This is also a convenient option for serving family members with different vegetable preferences.
Make a Cajun-Inspired Variation
For a different flavor profile, use Cajun seasoning to season the sausage and sauce. You can also experiment with a prepared brown gravy, adjusting the consistency and seasoning to complement the gnocchi.
Keep the sauce additions gradual so the finished dish does not become overly thick or salty.
Serving Suggestions
Serve the skillet immediately after combining the ingredients so the gnocchi remain tender and the sauce stays warm. A simple green salad or roasted vegetables can accompany the meal without adding much extra preparation.
For additional flavor, freshly grated Parmesan or Pecorino Romano can be offered at the table. A little freshly cracked black pepper also works well with the buttery garlic sauce.
If you prefer a lighter meal, serve smaller portions alongside a crisp salad dressed with lemon juice and olive oil.
Nutrition Facts
The following estimates are based on one serving, assuming the recipe is divided into four portions.
| Nutrient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 431 |
| Total Fat | 36 g |
| Saturated Fat | 19 g |
| Cholesterol | 138 mg |
| Sodium | 857 mg |
| Total Carbohydrates | 12 g |
| Dietary Fiber | 2 g |
| Total Sugars | 2 g |
| Protein | 15 g |
| Vitamin C | 42 mg |
| Calcium | 155 mg |
| Iron | 1 mg |
| Potassium | 207 mg |
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Actual nutrition may vary depending on the sausage, gnocchi, and other brands used.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Sausage Gnocchi Skillet is a satisfying dinner that combines tender dumplings, savory sausage, fresh broccoli, and a buttery garlic sauce in one comforting meal.
Its straightforward preparation makes it accessible for home cooks, while the suggested substitutions allow you to adapt the ingredients to your preferences.
Serve it fresh from the skillet for a warm, filling dinner that brings familiar flavors to the table.
