There’s nothing quite like the comforting, crispy, and cheesy magic of a Sheet Pan Gnocchi Bake with Sausage and Broccolini Recipe to brighten up any weeknight dinner. This dish brings together fluffy potato gnocchi, flavorful Italian sausage, and vibrant broccolini all roasted to golden perfection on a single sheet pan. It’s a feast of textures and tastes with minimal fuss, making it one of my absolute favorites to prepare when I want something deliciously satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Sheet Pan Gnocchi Bake with Sausage and Broccolini Recipe lies in its simple ingredient list, where every element plays a crucial role in flavor, texture, and color. From the pillowy gnocchi to the spicy sausage and fresh broccolini, each component combines effortlessly to create a balanced, crowd-pleasing meal.
- 18 oz potato gnocchi: I recommend shelf-stable or refrigerated for best texture, these little pillows soak up flavors perfectly while crisping beautifully.
- 10 oz Italian sausage: Mild or spicy, casings removed and sliced or crumbled, it adds savory richness and a hint of spice.
- 9 oz broccolini: Trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces, broccolini adds a fresh, slightly sweet crunch and vibrant green color.
- 3 tbsp olive oil: This ensures everything roasts evenly and helps develop those irresistible crispy edges.
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs: Oregano, basil, or a mixed blend bring aromatic depth and Italian flair.
- ½ tsp garlic powder: For a subtle boost of garlicky goodness without overpowering.
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional): Adds a touch of heat if you want to spice things up.
- ¾ tsp kosher salt: Balances and elevates all the flavors beautifully.
- ½ tsp black pepper: Freshly ground is best for a little bite and warmth.
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese: Sprinkled on top just after roasting for that irresistible savory finish.
- Fresh basil or parsley (optional): A fresh, herbal garnish to brighten every bite.
How to Make Sheet Pan Gnocchi Bake with Sausage and Broccolini Recipe
Step 1: Preheat Oven and Prepare Your Pan
The secret to perfectly roasted gnocchi and broccolini starts with a hot oven. Set yours to 425°F and line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup a breeze.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients in a Bowl
In a large bowl, toss together the potato gnocchi, Italian sausage, and broccolini pieces. Drizzle with olive oil, then sprinkle on the dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes if you’re using them, kosher salt, and black pepper. Mix everything thoroughly so each bite is seasoned and coated in olive oil.
Step 3: Arrange the Mixture on the Baking Sheet
Spread the gnocchi, sausage, and broccolini in a single, even layer on your prepared pan. Giving space between pieces allows them to roast and crisp properly instead of steaming.
Step 4: Roast Until Golden and Tender
Pop your sheet pan into the oven and roast for about 20 to 25 minutes, stirring everything halfway through. You’ll know it’s ready when the gnocchi have that perfect golden-brown crust, the sausage is fully cooked through, and the broccolini has tender edges with just a bit of char.
Step 5: Finish with Parmesan and Fresh Herbs
As soon as you pull the pan from the oven, sprinkle the grated Parmesan cheese over the top so it melts slightly into the warm gnocchi and sausage. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley to add an herby freshness that rounds out this hearty bake.
How to Serve Sheet Pan Gnocchi Bake with Sausage and Broccolini Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or parsley are my go-to garnishes because they add a pop of color and a lively herbal note that cuts through the richness. A light drizzle of good quality olive oil or an extra sprinkle of Parmesan never hurts either.
Side Dishes
This dish is satisfying enough on its own, but if you want to round it out, consider serving with a crisp green salad or some roasted cherry tomatoes to add juicy sweetness and a fresh contrast. Crusty bread on the side is perfect for mopping up any delightful juices left on the plate.
Creative Ways to Present
If you’re serving guests or want to jazz it up a bit, try plating the bake in individual cast iron skillets or mini cocottes. Offering a bowl of chili flakes or an herbed yogurt dip on the side can add interactive flavor fun to the table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Sheet Pan Gnocchi Bake with Sausage and Broccolini Recipe keeps well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. The flavors deepen overnight, and you can enjoy it cold or reheated.
Freezing
This bake freezes nicely if you want to meal prep. After it cools completely, transfer to a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
Reheat leftovers in a nonstick skillet over medium heat to bring back the crispy edges, or warm gently in the oven at 350°F until heated through. Microwaving works too but may soften the crispiness.
FAQs
Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of store-bought?
Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi can be used, but reduce the roasting time slightly since they are softer and cook faster. Keep an eye on them to avoid overcooking.
What if I’m not a fan of broccolini?
You can swap broccolini for broccoli florets, asparagus tips, or even green beans. Just adjust the roasting time slightly based on the vegetable to ensure tenderness and a bit of char.
Is it possible to make this vegetarian?
Definitely! Replace the sausage with a plant-based or vegetarian sausage substitute, or add more veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra heartiness.
How spicy is the dish if I include red pepper flakes?
The crushed red pepper flakes add a mild heat that isn’t overpowering but gives the bake a pleasant kick. You can adjust or leave them out depending on your heat preference.
Can I prepare this dish ahead of time before roasting?
You can assemble the ingredients and toss everything together up to a few hours in advance. Keep it covered in the fridge until you’re ready to roast for the freshest results.
Final Thoughts
This Sheet Pan Gnocchi Bake with Sausage and Broccolini Recipe is one of those golden-hued, flavor-packed meals that’s perfect for busy nights yet impressive enough for company. It’s a simple formula that turns everyday ingredients into a memorable dinner with crispy, tender, and savory notes at every bite. Give it a try and let this dish become a beloved staple in your kitchen — I promise you’ll be reaching for it again and again!
Print
Sheet Pan Gnocchi Bake with Sausage and Broccolini Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Roasting
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Sheet Pan Gnocchi Bake is a quick and delicious one-pan meal featuring tender potato gnocchi, savory Italian sausage, and vibrant broccolini, all roasted to golden perfection and topped with Parmesan cheese. Perfect for a satisfying weeknight dinner with minimal cleanup.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 18 oz store-bought potato gnocchi (shelf-stable or refrigerated)
- 10 oz Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed, sliced or crumbled
- 9 oz broccolini, trimmed and cut into bite-size pieces
Seasonings and Toppings
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried Italian herbs (oregano, basil, or mixed herbs)
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- ¾ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat Oven and Prepare Pan: Preheat the oven to 425°F (220°C). Line a large rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
- Combine Ingredients: In a large bowl, add the potato gnocchi, Italian sausage (either sliced or crumbled), and bite-sized broccolini pieces. Drizzle with olive oil and sprinkle with dried Italian herbs, garlic powder, crushed red pepper flakes if using, kosher salt, and black pepper. Toss thoroughly until everything is evenly coated.
- Arrange for Roasting: Spread the mixture evenly in a single layer on the prepared baking sheet. Ensuring a single layer promotes even roasting and helps the gnocchi crisp up nicely.
- Roast Until Golden: Place the baking sheet in the preheated oven and roast for 20 to 25 minutes. Stir the mixture halfway through cooking to ensure even browning. The gnocchi should turn golden and crisp, the sausage fully cooked, and the broccolini tender with slight charring.
- Finish and Serve: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and immediately sprinkle the roasted gnocchi mixture with grated Parmesan cheese. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley if desired, then serve warm for a comforting and flavorful meal.
Notes
- You can substitute broccolini with broccoli or asparagus based on availability.
- For extra heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes or use spicy Italian sausage.
- Using parchment paper prevents sticking and makes cleaning easier.
- Ensure gnocchi is spaced out on the pan to achieve maximum crispness.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated in the oven or a skillet.
