Pesto Turkey Sausage Gnocchi Bake (Print Version)

Creamy pesto turkey sausage gnocchi bake. A comforting, flavorful dinner with tender gnocchi, savory turkey sausage, and vibrant pesto sauce.

# Recipe Info:

Prep Time: 20 Minutes minutes

Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 6 Servings

Difficulty: Intermediate

Cuisine: Italian

# Ingredients:

→ Hearty Bake Foundation

01 - 1 1/2 lbs potato gnocchi

02 - 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes

03 - 2 tbsp olive oil

→ Savory Sausage & Aromatics

04 - 1 lb ground turkey sausage

05 - 1 medium yellow onion, diced

06 - 3 cloves garlic, minced

07 - 5 oz fresh spinach

→ Vibrant Pesto & Cheesy Finish

08 - 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto

09 - 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese

10 - 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

11 - 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved

12 - 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish

13 - Salt and black pepper to taste

# Instructions:

01 - Preheat oven to 400°F. Heat 2 tbsp olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. This initial step sets the stage for your delicious Pesto Turkey Sausage Gnocchi Bake Recipe.

02 - Add 1 lb ground turkey sausage to the skillet, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat. Stir in 1 medium yellow onion, diced, and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Add 3 cloves garlic, minced, and cook for 1 minute more until fragrant.

03 - Pour in 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes. Add 1 1/2 lbs potato gnocchi directly to the skillet. Stir well to combine all ingredients. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, to allow the gnocchi to absorb some liquid.

04 - Remove the skillet from heat. Stir in 5 oz fresh spinach until wilted. Fold in 1/2 cup prepared basil pesto. Season generously with salt and black pepper to taste. This vibrant addition is key to the "Pesto" in your Pesto Turkey Sausage Gnocchi Bake Recipe.

05 - If not using an oven-safe skillet, transfer the gnocchi mixture to a 9x13 inch baking dish. Top evenly with 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese, 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, and 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved.

06 - Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden brown. For the best Pesto Turkey Sausage Gnocchi Bake Recipe, let it rest for 5 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to meld and the sauce to set slightly.

07 - Garnish the finished bake with 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped. Serve hot and enjoy this comforting and flavorful Pesto Turkey Sausage Gnocchi Bake Recipe.

# Notes:

01 - For a vegetarian version, omit the turkey sausage and add a can of drained cannellini beans or chickpeas for protein, or extra vegetables like bell peppers.

02 - Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.

03 - Don't overcook the gnocchi on the stovetop; it will finish cooking in the oven, ensuring a tender, not mushy, texture.

04 - This bake is hearty on its own, but pairs wonderfully with a simple green salad with a light vinaigrette or some crusty bread for dipping.

# Tools You'll Need:

01 - Large skillet or Dutch oven

02 - 9x13 inch baking dish

03 - Cutting board

04 - Chef's knife

05 - Measuring cups and spoons

06 - Spatula or wooden spoon

# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):

Calories: 600 kcal

Total Fat: 28 g

Total Carbohydrate: 50 g

Protein: 37 g

Back