Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage

Name: Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 pound gnocchi; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 8 ounces kale, chopped; 1 pound kale sausage, sliced; 1 cup marinara sauce; 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded; 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Easy Comfort Recipes

Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage is a delightful dish that combines tender gnocchi with savory sausage and nutritious kale, all baked to perfection with a cheesy topping.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-16T21:49:18.296Z

This Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage is a comforting dish perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The combination of flavors and textures makes it a family favorite.

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Hearty and filling, perfect for a cozy meal
Rich combination of flavors from sausage and kale
Easy to prepare and bake, making cleanup a breeze

      

The Perfect Comfort Food

When the weather turns chilly, there's nothing more comforting than a warm, hearty meal. Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage is the epitome of comfort food, providing a satisfying experience that warms both body and soul. The fluffy gnocchi pairs beautifully with the savory sausage and the nutrient-packed kale, making this dish not only delicious but also fulfilling. It's the ideal meal to gather around the table with loved ones, creating lasting memories over shared plates.

This dish excels at bringing together diverse flavors and textures. The creamy mozzarella and Parmesan cheese melt into the gnocchi and sausage, creating a rich and inviting topping that is hard to resist. Each bite offers a perfect combination of softness and slight crunch from the baked cheese, making it an experience worth savoring. It's a comforting meal that feels indulgent without being overly heavy.

Boost Your Nutritional Intake

Incorporating kale into your meals is a great way to enhance your diet with essential vitamins and minerals. Kale is known for being high in vitamins A, C, and K, along with antioxidants that promote overall health. Pairing this leafy green with protein-rich sausage creates a balanced dish that supports your nutritional needs. You can enjoy a delicious meal while ensuring you're fueling your body with beneficial ingredients.

Additionally, using gnocchi as a base provides a gluten-free option if you choose to make or buy gluten-free gnocchi. This versatility allows you to cater to various dietary preferences, making it a fantastic choice for family dinners or gatherings. By using wholesome ingredients like kale and quality sausage, you can feel good about what you're serving on your dinner table.

Easy to Make and Customize

Ingredients

For the Gnocchi Bake

1 pound gnocchi
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
8 ounces kale, chopped
1 pound kale sausage, sliced
1 cup marinara sauce
1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, grated
Salt and pepper to taste

Gather all ingredients before starting the preparation.

Instructions

Preheat the Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).

Cook the Gnocchi

In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float. Drain and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add chopped onion and garlic, and sauté until soft. Add the kale and sausage, cooking until the kale is wilted and the sausage is browned.

Combine and Bake

In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked gnocchi, sautéed mixture, and marinara sauce. Season with salt and pepper. Transfer to a baking dish and top with mozzarella and Parmesan cheese. Bake for 20-25 minutes until golden and bubbly.

Let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! Baked Gnocchi with Kale Sausage keeps well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply store it in an airtight container to maintain its freshness. When you're ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it in the oven at a low temperature or in the microwave. Just be sure to add a splash of water or sauce to prevent it from drying out during reheating.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Portion out servings in freezer-safe containers, and they can last for up to three months. When you're ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as mentioned. This makes it an excellent meal prep option, offering convenience for busy days ahead.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing your Baked Gnocchi with a fresh side salad. A simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi. Additionally, a crusty piece of garlic bread can complement the dish perfectly, allowing you to soak up every bit of the delicious sauce.

For a beverage pairing, a light white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio, can enhance the meal's flavors without overpowering them. If you'd prefer a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling water with a hint of citrus can be equally refreshing. These simple additions will round out your meal, making it an unforgettable experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

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

→ What can I substitute for kale?

You can substitute spinach or Swiss chard if you prefer.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

You can replace the sausage with a plant-based sausage or omit it entirely.

→ Can leftovers be stored?

Yes, store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.