Imagine a plate of pillowy gnocchi dancing with crispy chicken sausage, earthy mushrooms, and a creamy cashew pesto that will make your taste buds sing! This Italian-inspired dish is not just a meal, it's a culinary adventure that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-worthy experience you can create right in your own kitchen. In just 25 minutes, you'll craft a dinner so delicious, it'll become an instant family favorite that leaves everyone asking for seconds.
Prep Time: 10 mins
Cook Time: 15 mins
Total Time: 25 mins
Cuisine: Italian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 1 package gnocchi
- 2 chicken sausages, sliced
- 8 oz mushrooms, sliced
- 1/2 cup cashew pesto
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
- Prepare all ingredients by washing and slicing mushrooms, cutting chicken sausages into thin rounds, and measuring out cashew pesto and Parmesan cheese.
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat until shimmering and hot.
- Add sliced chicken sausage to the skillet and cook for 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until edges are slightly crispy and golden brown.
- Add sliced mushrooms to the skillet and sauté with sausage for 4-5 minutes, allowing mushrooms to release their moisture and become lightly browned.
- Meanwhile, bring a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil and cook gnocchi according to package instructions, typically 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface.
- Drain gnocchi using a slotted spoon and transfer directly into the skillet with sausage and mushrooms.
- Add cashew pesto to the skillet and gently toss all ingredients together, ensuring even coating and heating through for 1-2 minutes.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste, stirring to distribute seasoning evenly.
- Remove from heat and sprinkle grated Parmesan cheese over the top.
- Serve immediately in warm bowls, garnishing with additional Parmesan if desired.
Tips
- • Always salt your boiling water generously - this is your first chance to season the gnocchi • Make sure your skillet is hot before adding sausage to achieve that perfect golden-brown crisp • Don't overcook the gnocchi; they're done as soon as they float to the surface • Use a slotted spoon when transferring gnocchi to preserve some of the starchy cooking water, which can help bind the sauce • For extra richness, consider toasting the cashews before making the pesto • If you prefer a lighter version, you can use turkey sausage instead of chicken sausage • Fresh mushrooms will give the best flavor, so avoid pre-sliced if possible
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 520kcal
Carbohydrates: 45g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 30g
Saturated Fat: 8g
Cholesterol: 65mg
