Gnocchi With Sausage Tomato Sauce And Fresh Mozzarella Recipe

Cooking Directions

• STEP 1.Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil and cook the gnocchi according to package instructions.
• STEP 2.In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat and add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces with a spoon.
• STEP 3.Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Then, pour in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning. Stir well to combine and simmer for about 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
• STEP 4.Once the gnocchi is cooked, drain it and add it to the skillet with the sausage tomato sauce. Toss gently to coat the gnocchi with the sauce.
• STEP 5.Preheat the broiler. Transfer the gnocchi and sauce to a baking dish and top with fresh mozzarella cheese. Place under the broiler for a few minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
• STEP 6.Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh basil leaves, if desired. Enjoy!

Cooking Tips

• To make the gnocchi extra fluffy, use a potato ricer or a fork to mash the cooked potatoes before adding the flour.
• If you prefer a spicier sauce, you can add red pepper flakes or chili powder to the sausage tomato sauce.
• For a vegetarian version, you can omit the sausage and add vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, or zucchini to the sauce.
• Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop before serving.

Storage and Serving

• Serve the gnocchi with sausage tomato sauce and fresh mozzarella as a main course with a side salad or garlic bread.
• This dish pairs well with a glass of red wine, such as Chianti or Sangiovese.
• You can also serve it as a side dish alongside grilled meats or roasted vegetables.
• To freeze the dish, assemble the gnocchi and sauce in a freezer-safe container without the cheese. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then top with fresh mozzarella before baking.