Rustic Sausage & Pepper Sheet Pan Gnocchi: A Modern Mealtime Marvel

Freshen Up Your Dinner Routine with Hearty Italian-Inspired Gnocchi

Inspired by classic Italian flavors, this Rustic Sausage & Pepper Sheet Pan Gnocchi combines crispy gnocchi, roasted peppers, and savory sausage for a satisfying, easy-to-make weeknight meal. Enjoy the rich, comforting flavors with minimal effort.

Rustic Sausage & Pepper Sheet Pan Gnocchi – Quick and Easy Weeknight Dinner

DifficultyEasy

Servings4

Prep time10 minutes

Cook time20 minutes

Total time30 minutes

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Ingredients:

For the Gnocchi and Sausage:

• 1 pound potato gnocchi, (shelf-stable or refrigerated)
• 12 ounces Italian sausage, (mild or spicy), sliced into rounds
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Peppers and Onions:

• 1 red bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 yellow bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced into strips
• 1 large red onion, sliced thin
• 2 tablespoons Olive Oil
• Salt and pepper, to taste

For Garnish (Optional):

• Fresh parsley, chopped
• Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions:

• 1

  Preheat the Oven:

  • Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) and line a large sheet pan with parchment paper or foil for easy cleanup.
• 2

  Prepare the Gnocchi and Sausage:

  • In a large bowl, toss the gnocchi and sliced sausage with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, garlic powder, Italian seasoning, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Ensure everything is well-coated.
• 3

  Prepare the Peppers and Onions:

  • In a separate bowl, toss the sliced bell peppers and red onion with 2 tablespoons of olive oil, plus a pinch of salt and pepper.
• 4

  Assemble on the Sheet Pan:

  • Spread the gnocchi and sausage mixture evenly across one side of the sheet pan. On the other side, spread the peppers and onions. Keeping them slightly separate helps the gnocchi crisp up properly.
• 5

  Bake:

  • Roast in the preheated oven for 18-20 minutes, stirring everything halfway through. The gnocchi should be golden and crisp on the edges, and the sausage should be cooked through.
• 6

  Serve:

  • Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan if desired. Serve immediately.

Equipment

• Large sheet pan
• Parchment paper or foil
• Mixing bowls
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Tongs or spatula

Recipe Notes and Variations:

• Substitutions:
  • Use turkey sausage or plant-based sausage for a lighter alternative.
  • Add cherry tomatoes or zucchini for extra vegetables.
  • Swap out gnocchi for mini potatoes or tortellini if desired.

• Pro Tips:
  • For crispier gnocchi, avoid overcrowding the sheet pan to allow proper roasting.
  • Toss gnocchi directly in olive oil rather than boiling to achieve a golden, pan-fried texture in the oven.
  • Broil for 2-3 minutes at the end for extra caramelization.

• Storage & Reheating Instructions:
  • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat in a skillet over medium heat for best results, adding a drizzle of olive oil to restore crispness.
  • Avoid microwaving gnocchi, as it may become gummy.

Nutrition

Calories	520
Carbohydrates	55g
Cholesterol	60mg
Fat	28g
Fiber	5g
Protein	20g
Saturated Fat	8g
Sodium	880mg
Sugar	5g
Trans Fat	0g
Unsaturated Fat	15g

History, Evolution, and Inspiration

Sheet pan dinners are a modern staple for busy weeknights, combining simplicity with bold flavors. Inspired by classic Italian sausage and peppers, this Rustic Sausage & Pepper Sheet Pan Gnocchi brings a hearty twist with crispy gnocchi that soaks up all the rich flavors. The combination of roasted peppers, savory sausage, and tender gnocchi creates a satisfying and comforting meal with minimal effort.

The Art of Cooking the Recipe

Achieving perfect texture is key in this recipe. By roasting the gnocchi instead of boiling it, you get beautifully crispy edges while still maintaining a soft, pillowy center. The sausage releases flavorful oils that infuse the peppers and onions, creating a rich, cohesive dish with layers of flavor.

Interesting Things About the Recipe

This one-pan meal is ideal for those looking to maximize flavor with minimal cleanup. With just a sheet pan and a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a complete dinner on the table in 30 minutes.

Overview of the Parts of the Recipe

This recipe blends three essential elements:

• Crispy roasted gnocchi that’s golden and tender
• Savory Italian sausage cooked to perfection
• Colorful roasted peppers and onions that add sweetness and balance

What Occasions It’s Good For

Perfect for busy weeknights, family gatherings, or casual dinner parties, this recipe is both practical and satisfying. It’s also an excellent choice for meal prep since it reheats beautifully.

Why It’s the Perfect Recipe

With bold flavors, minimal cleanup, and a satisfying texture combination, this Rustic Sausage & Pepper Sheet Pan Gnocchi is your new go-to for easy comfort food.