Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage

Highlighted under: Classic Comfort Recipes

Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together tender gnocchi, savory sausage, and nutritious kale, all baked to perfection.

Emily

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-16T22:42:18.167Z

This Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage recipe is a delightful blend of flavors, perfect for a cozy dinner. The crispy edges of baked gnocchi combined with the robustness of kale and sausage create an unforgettable meal.

Why You'll Love This Recipe

  • Comforting and filling, perfect for chilly nights
  • A great way to sneak in some greens for the whole family
  • Easy to prepare and bake, making weeknight dinners a breeze

A Perfect Comfort Food

Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage is the epitome of comfort food. The combination of tender gnocchi and savory sausage creates a dish that is both hearty and satisfying. As the gnocchi bakes, it absorbs the flavors of the sausage and kale, resulting in a rich, delicious meal that's perfect for any occasion. Whether you're hosting a family dinner or simply looking for a cozy night in, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

On chilly nights, there's nothing quite like a warm, bubbling casserole to bring comfort. This baked gnocchi dish is not only filling but also offers a delightful mix of textures and flavors. The crispy cheese topping contrasts beautifully with the soft gnocchi beneath, making each bite an enjoyable experience. Plus, it's easy to prepare, allowing you to spend more time with your loved ones and less time in the kitchen.

Nutritious and Delicious

Incorporating kale into this recipe is a fantastic way to boost your family's vegetable intake without sacrificing flavor. Kale is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, making it a powerhouse of nutrition. Combined with the protein from the Italian sausage, this dish becomes a well-rounded meal that nourishes both body and soul. It's an excellent way to sneak in those greens, particularly for those who may not be fans of vegetables.

Moreover, the addition of tomatoes adds a touch of acidity that balances the rich flavors of the sausage and cheese. This dish not only satisfies your hunger but also contributes to a balanced diet. Eating well doesn’t have to be boring, and this Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage proves that delicious meals can also be healthy.

Easy Weeknight Dinner

One of the greatest benefits of this recipe is its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can have a comforting meal ready to serve in less than an hour. This makes it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when you want to enjoy a home-cooked meal without spending hours in the kitchen. The steps are straightforward, allowing even novice cooks to achieve great results.

Additionally, this dish is versatile. You can easily customize it by using different types of sausage or adding other vegetables like bell peppers or mushrooms. This flexibility ensures that you can tailor the recipe to your family's taste preferences while keeping it exciting and fresh. So, whether it’s a last-minute dinner or a planned meal, Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage is a go-to option that won't let you down.

Ingredients

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi Bake

  • 1 pound gnocchi
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 pound kale, chopped
  • 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  • 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  • 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

Make sure to have all your ingredients ready before starting the cooking process!

Instructions

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute.

Add the sausage and cook until browned.

Add Kale and Tomatoes

Stir in the chopped kale and diced tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the kale is wilted.

Combine with Gnocchi

In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture with the gnocchi. Stir well to combine.

Bake

Transfer the gnocchi mixture to a baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Let it cool slightly before serving. Enjoy your Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage!

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have leftovers after enjoying your Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage, you're in luck! This dish stores beautifully in the refrigerator. Simply transfer any remaining gnocchi to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. To reheat, you can bake it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through or microwave individual portions for a quick meal.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely, then wrap it tightly in plastic wrap or foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and then bake until heated through. This makes it a convenient meal option for busy days!

Pairing Suggestions

To elevate your Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage experience, consider pairing it with a simple side salad. A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the dish. You might also enjoy serving it with crusty bread, perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce.

For beverage pairings, a crisp white wine, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc, complements the flavors beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, sparkling water with a slice of lemon can be a refreshing choice. These pairings will enhance your meal, making for a delightful dining experience.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe.

→ Is this dish freezer-friendly?

Yes, you can freeze the assembled dish before baking. Just bake it straight from the freezer, adding extra time.

→ Can I substitute the sausage?

Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage or even a plant-based sausage for a lighter option.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

A simple side salad or crusty bread pairs great with Baked Gnocchi.

Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage

Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage is a hearty and comforting dish that brings together tender gnocchi, savory sausage, and nutritious kale, all baked to perfection.

Prep Time15 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time45 minutes

Created by: Emily

Recipe Type: Classic Comfort Recipes

Skill Level: Intermediate

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Gnocchi Bake

  1. 1 pound gnocchi
  2. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  3. 1 onion, chopped
  4. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  5. 1 pound kale, chopped
  6. 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed
  7. 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
  8. 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
  9. Salt and pepper to taste
  10. 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

How-To Steps

Step 01

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Step 02

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent. Add minced garlic and cook for another minute. Add the sausage and cook until browned.

Step 03

Stir in the chopped kale and diced tomatoes. Season with salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning. Cook until the kale is wilted.

Step 04

In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage mixture with the gnocchi. Stir well to combine.

Step 05

Transfer the gnocchi mixture to a baking dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and bake for 20 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 450 kcal
  • Total Fat: 20g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Cholesterol: 55mg
  • Sodium: 900mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 45g
  • Dietary Fiber: 5g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 22g