Creamy Sausage Gnocchi with Herbed Ricotta and Red Sauce

Introduction

Imagine a dish that combines the comfort of creamy sauce, the richness of herbed ricotta, and the savory flavor of sausage, all perfectly balanced with the softness of gnocchi and the tang of a well-made red sauce. This Creamy Sausage Gnocchi with Herbed Ricotta and Red Sauce recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that will elevate your weeknight dinners or special occasion feasts. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity and the use of everyday ingredients that come together to create something truly extraordinary. It’s about embracing the creativity in cooking while keeping things accessible and easy to make.

Why This Works

• Flavor balance and ingredient accessibility: The combination of the spicy sausage, the creaminess of the ricotta, and the acidity of the red sauce creates a perfect harmony of flavors. Moreover, the ingredients are easily found in most supermarkets, making this dish approachable for cooks of all levels.
• Ease of preparation: Despite its impressive presentation and taste, this recipe is surprisingly straightforward. It requires minimal prep time and can be cooked in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy evenings.
• Impressive results with minimal effort: The layers of flavor and the combination of textures (soft gnocchi, creamy sauce, and the crunch from fresh herbs) make this dish impressive enough to serve at a dinner party, yet it requires less effort than many simpler recipes.

Ingredients

• 1 pound gnocchi
• 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 medium onion, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/2 cup herbed ricotta cheese (see note)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley or basil, chopped (for garnish)
• Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Prepare the Herbed Ricotta – Mix 1/2 cup of ricotta cheese with 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh parsley, 1 tablespoon of chopped fresh basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Set aside.
2. Step 2: Cook the Gnocchi – Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions until they float. Reserve 1 cup of pasta water before draining the gnocchi.
3. Step 3: Cook the Sausage and Onion – In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Step 4: Make the Red Sauce – Add the minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 1 minute. Then, add the crushed tomatoes, chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. Step 5: Combine and Finish – Stir in the heavy cream and let the sauce simmer for another 2-3 minutes or until slightly thickened. Add the cooked gnocchi to the sauce, tossing to combine, adding some reserved pasta water if the sauce seems too thick. Finally, stir in the herbed ricotta cheese until well combined.
6. Step 6: Serve – Serve the gnocchi hot, topped with additional herbed ricotta if desired, and grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley or basil.

Handy Tips

• For a lighter version, you can reduce the amount of heavy cream or substitute it with half-and-half or a non-dairy creamer.
• Don’t overcook the gnocchi; they should be soft but still retain some bite.
• Customize the herbed ricotta to your taste by adding different herbs like dill or chives.

Heat Control

When cooking the sausage and making the red sauce, it’s essential to control the heat to prevent burning or overcooking. Medium-high heat is ideal for browning the sausage, but once the sauce is added, reducing the heat to low allows for a gentle simmer that develops the flavors without risking the sauce sticking to the bottom of the pan.

Crunch Factor

The crunch factor in this dish comes from the fresh herbs used in the herbed ricotta and as a garnish. To maintain the crunch, it’s best to add the herbs just before serving. If you’re looking for additional crunch, consider topping the gnocchi with toasted pine nuts or chopped fresh vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini.

Pro Kitchen Tricks

• Use high-quality ingredients: While it might be tempting to use cheaper alternatives, the quality of the sausage, tomatoes, and ricotta cheese will significantly impact the final taste of the dish.
• Don’t overmix: Whether it’s the sausage while it’s cooking or the gnocchi when you’re combining it with the sauce, gentle handling will help preserve the texture and prevent the dish from becoming tough or mushy.
• Reserve pasta water: This is a classic trick that helps achieve the perfect sauce consistency. The starchy water can be added to the sauce to thin it out if it becomes too thick.

Storage Tips

• The herbed ricotta can be made ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to a day.
• Cooked gnocchi with sauce can be refrigerated for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 2 months. Reheat gently over low heat, adding a bit of water or cream if the sauce has thickened too much.
• It’s best to freeze the sauce and cooked gnocchi separately for better texture upon reheating.

Gift Packaging Ideas

If you’re considering gifting this dish, perhaps for a potluck or as a care package, consider packaging the cooked gnocchi and sauce in a microwave-safe container, along with a dollop of herbed ricotta cheese in a small separate container. Include a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese and some fresh herbs for garnish. For a more rustic touch, use mason jars and adorn with a ribbon and a gift tag with heating instructions.

Flavor Variations

• Different spices: Add some red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or use fennel seeds to complement the sausage’s anise flavor.
• Creative toppings: In addition to Parmesan cheese, consider using other cheeses like mozzarella or goat cheese, or add some roasted vegetables for extra flavor and nutrition.
• Ingredient swaps: For a vegetarian version, substitute the sausage with roasted eggplant or zucchini, and for a vegan version, use a plant-based cream and cheese alternative.

Troubleshooting

• Texture problems: If the sauce becomes too thick, add a bit of the reserved pasta water or some broth. If it’s too thin, simmer it for a few more minutes or add a tablespoon of tomato paste.
• Ingredient replacements: If you can’t find gnocchi, you can substitute it with other small pasta shapes like penne or rigatoni, though the cooking time may vary.
• Over/undercooking signs: The gnocchi is done when it floats to the surface. The sauce is ready when it has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together. Avoid overcooking the sausage, as it can become dry.

FAQs

• Can I freeze it? Yes, you can freeze the cooked gnocchi with the sauce for up to 2 months. It’s best to reheat it gently over low heat.
• Is it gluten-free? Traditional gnocchi is made from potatoes and is gluten-free, but always check the ingredients of the store-bought gnocchi or the type of sausage you’re using.
• Can I double the recipe? Yes, you can easily double or triple this recipe for larger crowds. Just be sure to use a large enough pot and skillet to accommodate the increased quantity.

Conclusion

Creamy Sausage Gnocchi with Herbed Ricotta and Red Sauce is a recipe that will become a staple in your household. It’s a dish that celebrates the simplicity of good ingredients coming together to create something truly special. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or just starting your culinary journey, this recipe is sure to impress. Feel free to experiment with the flavors and ingredients to make it your own, and don’t hesitate to share your creations with friends and family. Happy cooking!