Name: Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine: 7 Reasons You'll Love This Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3/4 lb ground sweet Italian sausage; 1 shallot, finely chopped; 3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed; 1½ tsp Italian seasoning; 1 (15 oz) can Italian-style diced or petite diced tomatoes; 1 cup half-and-half; 12 oz gluten-free gnocchi (or regular gnocchi); 4 cups baby spinach, lightly packed and roughly chopped; 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/4–1/2 cup chicken broth, optional (to thin sauce)

Jump to Recipe

Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine is a quick and cozy one-skillet Italian-inspired dinner that’s ready in under 30 minutes. This creamy gnocchi recipe features tender gluten-free gnocchi, savory Italian sausage, baby spinach, and melty mozzarella for a comforting weeknight meal. Each bite is a delightful blend of flavors that will make you feel like you’re dining in a quaint Italian bistro.

Why You’ll Love This Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine

Here are several reasons to embrace this dish:

It’s ready in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich, creamy sauce that satisfies cravings for comfort food.
Easy to make in one skillet, minimizing cleanup.
Uses gluten-free gnocchi, catering to dietary needs.
Packed with spinach, adding a nutritious twist.
A delightful blend of flavors from Italian sausage and mozzarella.
This is a vegetarian option when you omit the sausage.
The Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine Recipe is versatile and can be modified easily.

Ingredients for Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine

Gather these items:

3/4 lb ground sweet Italian sausage
1 shallot, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced or pressed
1½ tsp Italian seasoning
1 (15 oz) can Italian-style diced or petite diced tomatoes
1 cup half-and-half
12 oz gluten-free gnocchi (or regular gnocchi)
4 cups baby spinach, lightly packed and roughly chopped
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1/4–1/2 cup chicken broth, optional (to thin sauce)

How to Make Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine Step-by-Step

Step 1: In a large 12-inch skillet over medium-high heat, cook the Italian sausage and chopped shallot until browned.
Step 2: Add garlic and Italian seasoning; sauté 1–2 minutes until fragrant.
Step 3: Stir in diced tomatoes, half-and-half, and gnocchi; bring to a gentle simmer.
Step 4: Reduce heat to medium and cook 7–8 minutes, stirring occasionally, until gnocchi are nearly tender and sauce thickens.
Step 5: Add spinach and stir until wilted, about 1–2 minutes. Thin sauce with chicken broth if needed.
Step 6: Remove from heat, stir in mozzarella until melted and creamy.
Step 7: Serve hot and enjoy!

Pro Tips for the Perfect Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine

Keep these in mind:

Use fresh mozzarella for a creamier texture.
Cook the sausage until well browned for enhanced flavor.
Add more spinach if you want a healthier twist.
This dish can be made gluten-free by choosing gluten-free gnocchi.

Best Ways to Serve Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine

Consider these serving ideas:

Serve with a side of garlic bread for an indulgent meal.
Pair with a fresh salad to balance the creaminess.
This dish makes a perfect centerpiece for dinner gatherings.

How to Store and Reheat Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine

Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to loosen the sauce. Meal prep is a breeze with this dish, making it a great option for busy weeks.

Frequently Asked Questions About Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine

What’s the secret to perfect Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine?

The secret lies in cooking the gnocchi until they float, indicating they are done. Combine this with perfectly sautéed sausage and fresh spinach for an irresistible dish. A dash of Italian seasoning elevates the flavors.

Can I make Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the sauce and cook the gnocchi ahead of time. Just combine everything and reheat when you’re ready to serve. This makes it a convenient option for meal prep!

How do I avoid common mistakes with Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine?

To avoid common mistakes, don’t overcook the gnocchi, and ensure the sausage is well-browned for flavor. Adjust the thickness of the sauce to your liking by adding broth gradually.

Variations of Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine You Can Try

Here are some exciting variations:

Replace Italian sausage with mushrooms for a vegetarian version.
Use different cheeses like Parmesan or Fontina for unique flavors.
Add sun-dried tomatoes for extra tang and flavor.
Try different greens like kale or Swiss chard for a twist on nutrition.

For more delicious recipes, check out Creamy Parmesan Italian Sausage or Creamy Potato Soup.

Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine: 7 Reasons You'll Love This Dish - Cheesy Gnocchi Florentine - additional detail

For more information on the nutritional benefits of spinach, visit Healthline.