Mediterranean Gnocchi Sausage Bake: A Delicious & Easy Recipe

Mediterranean gnocchi sausage bake: prepare to embark on a culinary journey that will transport your taste buds straight to the sun-kissed shores of the Mediterranean! Imagine tender, pillowy gnocchi mingling with savory Italian sausage, vibrant vegetables, and a generous blanket of melted cheese, all baked to golden perfection. This isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience.

While gnocchi itself boasts a rich history rooted in Italian culinary tradition, dating back to Roman times, this particular twist infuses it with the bright, bold flavors of the Mediterranean. Think sun-dried tomatoes, Kalamata olives, fragrant herbs, and a touch of feta cheese – ingredients that evoke images of bustling markets and family feasts under the warm Mediterranean sun.

What makes this Mediterranean gnocchi sausage bake so irresistible? It’s the perfect harmony of textures and tastes. The soft, slightly chewy gnocchi provides a delightful contrast to the crispy sausage and the tender-crisp vegetables. The combination of savory sausage, tangy tomatoes, salty olives, and creamy cheese creates a symphony of flavors that will leave you craving more. Plus, it’s incredibly easy to prepare, making it a weeknight dinner winner that’s sure to impress. I know my family loves it, and I’m sure yours will too!

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage, removed from casings
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15 ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• 1 (17.6 ounce) package potato gnocchi
• 1 cup Kalamata olives, pitted and halved
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes, oil-packed, drained and chopped
• 4 ounces feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• Olive oil

Preparing the Sausage and Vegetable Base

1. Get started by preheating your oven to 375°F (190°C). This ensures the oven is ready when the gnocchi bake is assembled.
2. In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, drizzle about 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, about 7-10 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the skillet.
3. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, chopped red bell pepper, and chopped yellow bell pepper. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peppers are tender-crisp. This step builds a flavorful base for the sauce.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce. Stir in the dried oregano, dried basil, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for 15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully.

Adding the Gnocchi and Mediterranean Flavors

1. While the sauce is simmering, prepare the gnocchi. If using shelf-stable gnocchi, you can add it directly to the sauce. If using frozen gnocchi, you may want to thaw it slightly before adding it to the skillet.
2. Gently stir the gnocchi into the sauce, making sure it’s evenly distributed. Add the Kalamata olives and sun-dried tomatoes. Stir to combine. The olives and sun-dried tomatoes add a wonderful Mediterranean twist to the dish.

Baking the Gnocchi Bake

1. Crumble the feta cheese evenly over the top of the gnocchi and sauce mixture. The feta will melt and create a delicious, salty crust.
2. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven and bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and the cheese is melted and lightly golden brown. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning.

Serving and Garnishing

1. Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. This allows the bake to set slightly.
2. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley. This adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish.
3. Serve the Mediterranean gnocchi sausage bake hot, directly from the skillet. It’s perfect as a comforting and flavorful weeknight meal.

Tips and Variations

• Spice it up: If you like a little more heat, add an extra pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the sauce.
• Add more vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the sauce, such as zucchini, eggplant, or spinach.
• Use different cheese: If you’re not a fan of feta, you can use mozzarella, provolone, or Parmesan cheese instead.
• Make it vegetarian: Omit the sausage and add more vegetables or use vegetarian sausage crumbles.
• Prepare ahead: You can assemble the gnocchi bake ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator until ready to bake. Just add a few extra minutes to the baking time.
• Freezing: This dish freezes well. Allow to cool completely, then wrap tightly in plastic wrap and foil. Freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before baking.

Detailed Ingredient Notes

Italian Sausage:

I prefer to use sweet Italian sausage for this recipe, but you can use mild or hot Italian sausage depending on your preference. Make sure to remove the sausage from the casings before cooking. This allows it to crumble and brown evenly.

Onion and Garlic:

These are essential aromatics that form the base of the sauce. Use a large yellow onion for the best flavor. Mince the garlic finely to release its flavor.

Bell Peppers:

I like to use a combination of red and yellow bell peppers for color and flavor, but you can use any color bell pepper you like. Chop them into bite-sized pieces.

Crushed Tomatoes and Tomato Sauce:

Use good-quality crushed tomatoes and tomato sauce for the best flavor. Look for brands that are low in sodium and sugar.

Dried Oregano and Basil:

These herbs add a classic Italian flavor to the sauce. Use dried herbs for convenience, but you can also use fresh herbs if you prefer. If using fresh herbs, use about 1 tablespoon of each, chopped.

Red Pepper Flakes:

These are optional, but they add a nice touch of heat to the dish. Use a small amount if you’re sensitive to spice.

Potato Gnocchi:

You can use shelf-stable or frozen potato gnocchi for this recipe. If using frozen gnocchi, you may want to thaw it slightly before adding it to the skillet. Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi, as it can become mushy.

Kalamata Olives:

Kalamata olives add a salty and briny flavor to the dish. Make sure to pit them and halve them before adding them to the skillet.

Sun-Dried Tomatoes:

Oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes add a sweet and tangy flavor to the dish. Drain them well and chop them before adding them to the skillet.

Feta Cheese:

Feta cheese adds a salty and tangy flavor to the dish. Use crumbled feta cheese for easy distribution.

Fresh Parsley:

Fresh parsley adds a pop of color and freshness to the dish. Chop it finely before garnishing.

Olive Oil:

Use good-quality olive oil for cooking the sausage and vegetables.

Serving Suggestions

This Mediterranean gnocchi sausage bake is delicious on its own, but you can also serve it with a side salad or some crusty bread for dipping in the sauce.

Storage Instructions

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until heated through.

Conclusion:

This Mediterranean Gnocchi Sausage Bake is truly a dish you need to experience. It’s a symphony of flavors and textures, from the pillowy soft gnocchi to the savory Italian sausage, all bathed in a rich, sun-drenched Mediterranean sauce. The burst of sweetness from the roasted vegetables, the salty tang of the feta, and the herbaceous aroma of fresh basil create a culinary masterpiece that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. I promise, once you take that first bite, you’ll understand why I’m so enthusiastic about it!

But the best part? This recipe is incredibly versatile! Feel free to experiment with different types of sausage. Spicy Italian sausage will add a kick, while chicken or turkey sausage offers a lighter alternative. You can also swap out the vegetables based on what’s in season or what you have on hand. Zucchini, bell peppers (any color!), and eggplant all work beautifully in this bake. Don’t be afraid to get creative with your cheese too! While feta provides that classic Mediterranean flavor, crumbled goat cheese or even a sprinkle of Parmesan would be delicious additions.

For serving suggestions, this Mediterranean Gnocchi Sausage Bake is fantastic on its own as a hearty and satisfying meal. However, it also pairs perfectly with a simple green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette. The freshness of the salad cuts through the richness of the bake, creating a balanced and delightful dining experience. You could also serve it with a side of crusty bread for soaking up all that delicious sauce. And if you’re feeling extra fancy, a glass of chilled white wine, like a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Rosé, would complement the Mediterranean flavors beautifully.

Looking for variations? Consider adding a layer of creamy ricotta cheese between the gnocchi and the sauce for an extra decadent touch. Or, if you’re short on time, you can use pre-made marinara sauce instead of making your own. Just be sure to add some extra herbs and spices to boost the flavor. For a vegetarian option, simply omit the sausage and add more vegetables, such as mushrooms or artichoke hearts. You could even add some chickpeas or white beans for extra protein.

I truly believe this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner, a weekend gathering, or even a potluck. It’s easy to make, adaptable to your preferences, and guaranteed to impress. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, preheat your oven, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece!

I’m so excited for you to try this Mediterranean Gnocchi Sausage Bake! Once you’ve made it, please come back and share your experience in the comments below. I’d love to hear about any variations you tried, what your family thought, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Your feedback is invaluable and helps me continue to create recipes that you’ll love. Happy cooking! I can’t wait to hear all about your delicious creations. Don’t forget to snap a picture and tag me on social media – I’d love to see your version of this Mediterranean delight!