Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake

Name: Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 pound gnocchi; 1 cup basil pesto (homemade or store-bought); 1 pound Italian sausage (spicy or sweet); 1 cup heavy cream; 2 cups shredded mozzarella cheese; 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese (for topping); 1/4 cup fresh basil (chopped, for garnish)

Published: January 10, 2026

by william castellanos

Why You'll Love This Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake

This incredible Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake transforms simple everyday ingredients into restaurant-quality flavors that will blow your mind completely.
Foolproof recipe techniques guarantee perfect results every single time, making even novice cooks feel like professional chefs instantly.
Stunning visual appeal with gorgeous colors and mouthwatering aromas creates the ultimate Instagram-worthy dish for any special occasion.
Endlessly adaptable for different dietary needs while working beautifully for meal prep, date nights, or entertaining large groups effortlessly.

What You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake:

Gnocchi: Opt for store-bought gnocchi for convenience or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
Pesto Sauce: Use fresh basil pesto for vibrant flavor; homemade or store-bought works perfectly.
Italian Sausage: Choose spicy or sweet Italian sausage based on your heat preference; remove casings before cooking.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness and creaminess to the bake; substitute with half-and-half if desired.
Shredded Mozzarella Cheese: A generous topping of mozzarella creates that gooey, bubbly goodness everyone loves.

For the Toppings:

Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated Parmesan adds a nutty flavor that elevates this dish to new heights.
Fresh Basil: Chopped fresh basil brightens up the dish and adds a pop of color right before serving.

The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.

Cooking Instructions

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake:

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Grab an oven-safe baking dish and give it a light spray with nonstick cooking spray.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Break it apart with a spatula as it browns nicely—this should take about 5-7 minutes.

Step 3: Combine Ingredients

Once the sausage is browned and cooked through, stir in heavy cream and pesto sauce until well combined. Let it simmer for another minute while you daydream about how amazing dinner will be.

Step 4: Add Gnocchi

Gently fold in the gnocchi until they are coated in that luscious sauce. If you’ve made any errors lately (like forgetting laundry in the washer), now’s your chance to redeem yourself by stirring everything together lovingly.

Step 5: Transfer to Baking Dish

Pour the gnocchi mixture into your prepared baking dish. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese generously over the top like you’re creating the world’s cheesiest masterpiece.

Step 6: Bake Until Golden

Place your dish in the preheated oven and bake for around 25-30 minutes or until golden and bubbly. The anticipation will build as you watch that cheese melt into pure perfection!

To serve, sprinkle freshly chopped basil on top for color and extra flavor. Transfer generous portions onto plates and prepare yourself for compliments from everyone at the table—it’s going to be epic!

This Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake is not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with laughter, flavor explosions, and perhaps even some messy fun as everyone digs in. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or an impressive feast for friends, you’ll find yourself reaching for seconds—and maybe even thirds! Enjoy every cheesy bite!

You Must Know About Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake

This showstopping Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake delivers restaurant-quality results using simple ingredients you probably already have at home.
The perfect balance of textures and flavors creates an unforgettable dining experience that will have everyone asking for seconds.
Picture-perfect presentation with vibrant colors makes this dish absolutely Instagram-worthy and guaranteed to impress any dinner guest.
Incredibly versatile recipe that works beautifully for weeknight dinners, meal prep, special occasions, or even outdoor entertaining sessions.

Perfecting Cooking Process

Start by browning the sausage in a skillet; this step infuses incredible flavor. While that sizzles away, boil the gnocchi until they float, then mix them with your favorite pesto sauce before layering everything in a baking dish with cheese.

Flavor Your Way

Feel free to swap out the sausage for chicken or even mushrooms for a vegetarian option. Add different cheeses like feta or mozzarella for unique flavor profiles. Toss in some cherry tomatoes or spinach to enhance the dish’s nutritional value and add color.

Storing & Reheating

To store leftovers, cover the Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake tightly in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, pop it in the oven at 350°F until warmed through, ensuring it retains its delightful texture.

Chef's Helpful Tips for Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake

This professional-quality Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake relies on precise timing and temperature control to achieve restaurant-standard results consistently.
Master the art of mise en place by prepping all ingredients beforehand, ensuring smooth execution and preventing any last-minute cooking disasters.
The secret lies in layering flavors throughout the cooking process rather than seasoning only at the end for maximum depth.
Pro tip: let the finished dish rest for optimal texture and flavor development before serving to hungry guests waiting eagerly.

Sharing this dish with friends brought back memories of laughter-filled evenings where everyone came back for thirds! Their raving compliments made my culinary heart swell with pride and gave me a newfound confidence in my cooking skills.

FAQs

What is Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake?

Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake is a delightful, comforting dish that combines tender gnocchi, savory sausage, and rich pesto. This recipe layers these ingredients in a baking dish, creating a deliciously creamy texture once baked. The combination of flavors from the pesto and sausage elevates this meal, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. It’s easy to prepare and can be customized with your favorite vegetables or cheeses. This dish is not only filling but also offers a burst of fresh flavors that will satisfy your taste buds.

How do I make Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake?

To make Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake, start by cooking the sausage in a skillet until browned. Meanwhile, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float. In a large bowl, combine the cooked sausage, gnocchi, and pesto sauce. Transfer this mixture to a baking dish and top it with cheese before baking at 375°F (190°C) for about 20 minutes or until bubbly. This simple process results in a hearty meal that comes together quickly and effortlessly.

Can I customize my Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake?

Absolutely! One of the best aspects of Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake is its versatility. You can add various vegetables like spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini to boost nutrition and flavor. Additionally, you can experiment with different types of cheese such as mozzarella or parmesan for varied textures. For a lighter option, consider using chicken or turkey sausage instead of pork. Customizing your bake allows you to tailor it to your family’s preferences while enjoying a delicious meal.

Is Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake suitable for leftovers?

Yes! Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake makes excellent leftovers. After baking, you can store any remaining portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When reheating, simply pop it back into the oven or microwave until warmed through. The flavors often deepen after sitting overnight, making it even more enjoyable when you have it as a quick lunch or dinner option later on.

Conclusion

The Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake is an incredibly satisfying meal that brings together rich flavors and comfort in every bite. With its simple preparation process and customizable options, it’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re serving it for family dinners or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, this dish is sure to impress everyone at your table. Don’t hesitate to try this recipe; you’ll find yourself coming back for more delicious servings of Pesto Sausage Gnocchi Bake!