Easy Crispy Sheet Pan Sausage and Gnocchi Recipe with Basil Pesto
A quick and easy sheet pan meal featuring crispy gnocchi and caramelized sausage, finished with fresh basil pesto for a comforting Italian-inspired dinner.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients
Scale
- 1 pound Italian sausage links or bulk sausage (mild or spicy)
- 16 ounces potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/3 cup basil pesto
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes (optional)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil leaves, torn for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
- If using sausage links, slice into 1/2-inch rounds; if using bulk sausage, break into bite-sized pieces. Set aside.
- In a large bowl, combine gnocchi, sausage pieces, olive oil, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Spread the mixture in a single layer on a rimmed baking sheet. Avoid overcrowding.
- If using, scatter cherry tomatoes around the pan.
- Bake for 20 minutes, flipping the gnocchi and sausage halfway through (after 10 minutes) for even browning.
- Check that gnocchi is golden and crispy and sausage is cooked through (internal temp 160°F/71°C). Bake an additional 3-5 minutes if needed.
- Remove from oven and transfer to a large bowl. Toss gently with basil pesto to coat.
- Serve immediately, topped with freshly grated Parmesan and torn basil leaves.
Notes
Use high heat (425°F) for crispiness. Avoid overcrowding the pan to prevent steaming. Toss gnocchi and sausage with enough olive oil to prevent sticking. Flip halfway through baking for even browning. If pesto is thick, stir in a teaspoon or two of olive oil before tossing. For leftovers, reheat in a skillet or toaster oven to maintain crispiness; avoid microwaving.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving (approxima
- Calories: 475
- Sugar: 3
- Sodium: 700
- Fat: 22.5
- Saturated Fat: 7
- Carbohydrates: 37.5
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 22.5
Keywords: sheet pan, sausage, gnocchi, basil pesto, easy dinner, crispy gnocchi, one-pan meal, Italian