Easy Toasted Gnocchi with Sausage, Tomatoes and a Warm Spinach Salad

If you want a simple dinner that feels special but doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, this recipe fits perfectly. Using just one sheet pan, you can prepare two different meals with the same ingredients. The magic happens when crispy toasted gnocchi meets roasted sausage and tomatoes. You can enjoy it straight from the pan or pour it over a fresh spinach salad for a warm, comforting bowl. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to impress without stress.

Crispy toasted gnocchi with sausage and roasted tomatoes on a sheet pan

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Sheet Pan

• 1 package shelf-stable gnocchi

• 1 lb Italian sausage (choose mild or spicy), sliced or crumbled

• 1–2 cups cherry tomatoes

• 1 small onion, sliced

• 2 tablespoons olive oil

• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning

• Salt and pepper, to taste

  
  

For the Spinach Bowl Option

• 1 bag fresh spinach

• Olive oil, for drizzling

• Balsamic dressing or glaze

• Mozzarella pearls (optional but highly recommended)

  
  

How to Make Toasted Gnocchi with Sausage and Roasted Tomatoes

Step 1: Prepare the Oven and Sheet Pan

Preheat your oven to 425°F. This high temperature helps the gnocchi get crispy while the sausage cooks through and the tomatoes roast perfectly.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients on the Sheet Pan

Place the gnocchi, sausage, cherry tomatoes, and sliced onion on a large sheet pan. Drizzle everything with olive oil, then sprinkle Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper over the top. Toss the ingredients gently to coat them evenly with oil and seasoning.

Step 3: Roast Until Crispy and Cooked

Put the sheet pan in the oven and roast for 25 to 30 minutes. Halfway through, toss the ingredients to ensure even cooking and browning. The gnocchi should turn golden and crispy, the sausage fully cooked, and the tomatoes soft and slightly caramelized.

Two Ways to Enjoy This Meal

Option 1: Eat Straight from the Sheet Pan

Serve the roasted gnocchi, sausage, and tomatoes directly from the pan. This option is quick, hearty, and perfect if you want a no-fuss dinner. The crispy gnocchi combined with juicy sausage and sweet roasted tomatoes makes a satisfying plate.

Option 2: Warm Gnocchi Spinach Salad Bowl

For a lighter, fresh take, add a bag of fresh spinach to a large bowl. Drizzle the spinach with olive oil and balsamic dressing or glaze. Pour the hot sheet pan mixture over the spinach. The heat will gently wilt the greens, creating a warm salad. Top with mozzarella pearls for a creamy, melty finish. Toss lightly and serve immediately.

Warm toasted gnocchi and sausage served over fresh spinach salad

Nutrition Facts (Approximate per serving)

• Calories: 450

• Protein: 22g

• Carbohydrates: 38g

• Fat: 22g

• Saturated Fat: 7g

• Fiber: 4g

• Sugar: 6g

• Sodium: 700mg

  
  

This meal offers a balanced mix of protein, carbs, and fats. The sausage provides protein and fat, while the gnocchi supplies carbohydrates for energy. Adding spinach boosts fiber and vitamins, making the salad option a nutrient-rich choice.

Tips for Success

• Choose your sausage wisely. Mild sausage works well for a family-friendly meal, while spicy sausage adds a kick for those who like heat.

• Don’t overcrowd the pan. Spread ingredients evenly to ensure everything roasts properly and crisps up.

• Use shelf-stable gnocchi. It crisps better in the oven compared to fresh gnocchi, which can get mushy.

• Customize your salad. Add nuts, seeds, or fresh herbs to the spinach bowl for extra texture and flavor.

• Make it vegetarian. Swap sausage for plant-based sausage or roasted mushrooms for a meat-free version.