Get ready to indulge in a flavorful and satisfying Italian-inspired dish that will become a staple in your kitchen! Imagine tender gnocchi, crispy chicken sausage, and caramelized Brussels sprouts all coming together in perfect harmony, topped with a rich and creamy pesto sauce. This recipe for Gnocchi with Brussels Sprouts, Chicken Sausage, and Pesto is a game-changer, and the best part? It's ready in just 35 minutes! Whether you're a busy weeknight warrior or a weekend meal prep master, this recipe is sure to impress.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 20 mins
Total Time: 35 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 pound gnocchi
- 2 cups brussel sprouts, halved
- 2 chicken sausages, sliced
- 1/2 cup pesto
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing brussels sprouts, halving them lengthwise, and slicing chicken sausages into half-moon shapes approximately 1/4 inch thick.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add sliced chicken sausage and cook for 3-4 minutes until lightly browned and slightly crispy on the edges.
- Add halved brussels sprouts to the skillet with sausage. Season with salt and pepper. Sauté for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until sprouts develop golden brown caramelization and become tender.
- Simultaneously, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, typically 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface.
- Drain gnocchi using a slotted spoon, reserving 1/4 cup of pasta water. Transfer gnocchi directly into the skillet with sausage and brussels sprouts.
- Reduce heat to medium-low. Add pesto and reserved pasta water, gently tossing all ingredients to coat evenly and create a light sauce.
- Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld and ensuring everything is heated through.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed. Serve hot, optionally garnishing with grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil leaves.
Tips
- To ensure the best results for this recipe, be sure to:* Use high-quality store-bought or homemade gnocchi for the best texture and flavor. * Don't overcrowd the skillet when cooking the chicken sausage and Brussels sprouts - cook in batches if necessary. * Reserve that pasta water! It's key to creating a light and creamy pesto sauce. * Taste and adjust seasoning as you go, adding salt, pepper, or more pesto to your liking. * Consider adding some grated Parmesan cheese or fresh basil leaves on top for an extra burst of flavor and color.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 450kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 20g
Fat: 25g
Saturated Fat: 5g
Cholesterol: 60mg
