Let's be real. You know I am not a big fan of store-bought gnocchi. I mean, I teach pasta classes, for Heaven's sake! But there are so many recipes (even from my favorite resource, NYT Cooking) that use it. After being hit with these constant gnocchi suggestions over and over, I give!
Here's my experiment for you!
I actually think it's worth a try and let me tell you why:
It's super fast. You can have dinner ready in 30 minutes or less.
You need just a handful of ingredients:
And you can make it all happen on one sheet pan!
Crispy Gnocchi with Sausage and Broccoli
Adapted from Ali Slagle, NYT Cooking
Serves 4
1 lb package shelf-stable potato gnocchi
1 large head broccoli (about 1 pound), florets cut into 1½- to 2-inch pieces
¼ cup extra-virgin olive oil
2 garlic cloves, finely grated
1 lb mild Italian sausage, casings removed
¼ cup grated Parmesan, plus more for serving
½ lemon
Kosher salt and ground black pepper
Heat the oven to 425 degrees. On a sheet pan, toss together the gnocchi, broccoli, olive oil and garlic until well coated. Season with salt and pepper. Spread into an even layer. Pinch off pieces of the sausage that are roughly the size of the gnocchi and place them on top of the gnocchi and vegetables. Roast until the sausage and broccoli are golden and crisp, 20 to 25 minutes.
Squeeze the lemon half over the top (about 1½ tablespoons juice) and sprinkle with the Parmesan. Stir until the cheese has melted. Serve topped with more Parmesan, it's up to you!
Here are also some additional ideas to try:
Protein Swaps
- Try chicken sausage for a leaner option
- Use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian twist
Vegetable Alternatives
- Swap broccoli for Brussels sprouts
- Add bell peppers for extra color
- Mix in some cherry tomatoes
Make It Ahead
- Prep ingredients night before
- Store in a covered container in the refrigerator
- Add 5-10 minutes to cooking time if starting from cold
Dinner doesn't have to be complicated to be delicious. This sheet pan gnocchi proves that with a few smart shortcuts and minimal effort, you can create a meal that feels like you spent hours in the kitchen.