There’s something about the comforting aroma of Italian sausage roasting in the oven that feels like a warm hug on a chilly evening. Honestly, I could just stand in front of the oven, soaking in the delicious scents wafting through my kitchen, and I’d be a happy camper! This Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Sheet Pan Dinner has become my go-to meal for busy weeknights when I still want something hearty and satisfying without spending hours slaving away over the stove.
One of my favorite memories related to this dish is the time I invited a friend over for dinner, and he walked into my kitchen just as this dish was coming out of the oven. His eyes widened, and he exclaimed, “What on earth are you cooking?! It smells incredible!” I’ve lost count of how many times I’ve made this meal since then, but I can say for certain that it never fails to impress! Plus, it comes together in one pan, which means fewer dishes and more time to enjoy your creation. Let’s dive into this deliciousness, shall we?
What’s in Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Sheet Pan Dinner?
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the show! You can choose between mild or spicy, depending on your preference. I usually grab a nice quality Italian sausage from a local butcher or the deli section at the grocery store for that fresh flavor.
Gnocchi: Whether you buy store-bought or make your own, these little potato dumplings add the perfect heartiness to the dish. My secret guilty pleasure is using the pre-packaged gnocchi, especially when I’m pressed for time.
Brussels Sprouts: These little green gems add a lovely nuttiness and texture. Halving them allows for even roasting, perfectly caramelizing their edges.
Sweet Potato: Diced sweet potatoes offer a sweet contrast to the savory sausage and spice from the Italian seasoning. Plus, they’re packed with nutrients!
Red Onion: The red onion adds a pop of color as well as a sweet, caramelized flavor when roasted. They also make the kitchen smell heavenly!
Cherry Tomatoes: Halved cherry tomatoes bring a burst of freshness to each bite, and they roast beautifully, becoming juicy and flavorful.
Olive Oil: A good drizzle of olive oil is essential for roasting; it helps everything brown nicely and adds richness to the dish.
Italian Seasoning: This is where you get that classic flavor. If you have your own blend or favorite brand, don’t hesitate to use it!
Salt and Pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance all the flavors in this dish.
Parmesan Cheese: A generous sprinkle of grated parmesan at the end elevates this recipe to restaurant-quality!
Fresh Parsley: The bright, chopped parsley is the perfect finishing touch, adding a bit of freshness and a pop of color to your meal.
Is Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Sheet Pan Dinner Good for You?
Oh, absolutely! This dish is packed with wholesome ingredients, making it a balanced meal.
– Italian Sausage: A great source of protein, but if you’re watching your fat intake, opt for leaner sausage varieties or turkey sausage.
– Gnocchi: Provides carbs for energy, and if you find whole grain versions, even better!
– Brussels Sprouts and Sweet Potato: Both loaded with vitamins, minerals, and fiber, they not only fill you up but also support your health.
– Olive Oil: Heart-healthy fats are beneficial for your overall wellness. Just don’t go overboard with it!
However, keep in mind, this dish does contain sodium, especially from the sausage and the cheese, so if you’re watching your sodium intake, adjust the amounts accordingly or choose lower-sodium options.
Ingredients List
– 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, according to preference)
– 1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cups Brussels sprouts, halved
– 1 medium sweet potato, diced
– 1 red onion, cut into wedges
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 3 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
This recipe serves about 4 people. Perfect for a family dinner or leftovers for lunch!
How to Make Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Sheet Pan Dinner?
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. On a large sheet pan, combine the Italian sausage (cut into bite-sized pieces), Brussels sprouts, sweet potato, red onion, and cherry tomatoes.
3. Drizzle the olive oil over the vegetables and sausage, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until well coated.
4. Roast in the preheated oven for about 20 minutes.
5. After 20 minutes, remove the sheet pan from the oven and add the gnocchi to the pan. Toss them to combine with the other ingredients.
6. Return the sheet pan to the oven and roast for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until the sausage is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
7. Remove from the oven, sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top, and let it melt slightly.
8. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Enjoy your delicious Italian Sausage and Gnocchi Sheet Pan Dinner!
One-Pan Perfection!
This is a dish that’s so versatile! You can swap in any veggies you have on hand or even switch out the sausage for chicken or tofu for a different flavor profile. Crack open a bottle of wine, throw on your favorite playlist, and embrace that joyful cooking experience. I’d absolutely love to hear how your dinner turns out, so feel free to reach out and let me know! Happy cooking!
