Pesto Beef Sausage Gnocchi Bake (Print Version)
Hearty Pesto Beef Sausage Gnocchi Bake combines savory beef sausage, tender gnocchi, and vibrant pesto in a cheesy, comforting casserole. A family favorite.
# Recipe Info:
Prep Time: 15 Minutes minutes
Cook Time: 25 Minutes minutes
Total Time: 40 minutes
Servings: 4 Servings
Difficulty: Beginner
Cuisine: Italian
# Ingredients:
→ The Hearty Core
01 -
1 lb ground beef sausage
02 -
1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
→ Savory Sauce & Aromatics
03 -
1 tbsp olive oil
04 -
1/2 medium yellow onion, diced
05 -
3 cloves garlic, minced
06 -
1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes
07 -
1 tsp Italian seasoning
08 -
Salt and black pepper to taste
→ Verdant Swirl & Cheesy Crown
09 -
1/2 cup basil pesto
10 -
1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese
11 -
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
12 -
1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, for garnish
# Instructions:
01 -
Preheat your oven to 375°F. Dice the 1/2 medium yellow onion and mince the 3 cloves garlic. Prepare a 9x13 inch baking dish by lightly greasing it or spraying with non-stick spray. This initial prep ensures a smooth cooking process.
02 -
In a large oven-safe skillet or Dutch oven, heat 1 tbsp olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the 1 lb ground beef sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until it's browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess fat and set the cooked sausage aside.
03 -
In the same skillet (no need to clean), add the diced 1/2 medium yellow onion and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced 3 cloves garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn it.
04 -
Pour in the 1 (28 oz) can crushed tomatoes. Stir in 1 tsp Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper to taste. Bring the sauce to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat and let it cook for 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. This forms the hearty base for your Pesto Beef Sausage Gnocchi Bake.
05 -
Return the cooked 1 lb ground beef sausage to the skillet with the sauce. Add the 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi and stir in 1/2 cup basil pesto until all ingredients are well combined and the gnocchi is evenly coated in the flavorful sauce.
06 -
Transfer the entire mixture from the skillet into your prepared 9x13 inch baking dish. Sprinkle evenly with 1 1/2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese and 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese. This cheesy crown will make your Pesto Beef Sausage Gnocchi Bake truly irresistible.
07 -
Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and lightly golden, and the gnocchi is tender. Let the Pesto Beef Sausage Gnocchi Bake rest for a few minutes before garnishing with 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped, and serving warm.
# Notes:
01 -
Feel free to swap ground beef sausage for Italian sausage (mild or hot) or even ground turkey for a lighter option in your Pesto Beef Sausage Gnocchi Bake.
02 -
Serve this hearty bake with a simple green salad and crusty bread to soak up all the delicious sauce.
03 -
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
04 -
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes to the sauce for a subtle kick.
# Tools You'll Need:
01 -
Large skillet
02 -
9x13 inch baking dish
03 -
Cutting board
04 -
Chef's knife
05 -
Measuring cups and spoons
06 -
Spatula
# Nutrition Facts (Per Serving):
Calories: 990 kcal
Total Fat: 64 g
Total Carbohydrate: 54 g
Protein: 44 g