Woodsy Skillet Sausage Mushroom

A hearty, comforting skillet meal featuring pillowy gnocchi, earthy mushrooms, and savory sausage in a fragrant, creamy sauce—perfect for cozy evenings.

This recipe quickly became a family favorite, especially on chilly nights when we crave comfort food that doesn't take hours to make.

Ingredients

• Italian sausage: 12 oz (340 g) mild or spicy, casings removed
• Mushrooms: 8 oz (225 g) cremini or button, cleaned and sliced
• Yellow onion: 1 small, finely chopped
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced
• Baby spinach: 2 cups (60 g), roughly chopped
• Fresh thyme leaves: 1 tablespoon (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• Potato gnocchi: 1 lb (450 g), shelf-stable or refrigerated
• Heavy cream: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
• Low-sodium chicken broth: 1/2 cup (120 ml)
• Grated Parmesan cheese: 1/2 cup (50 g)
• Olive oil: 2 tablespoons
• Salt and black pepper: to taste

Instructions

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Step 1:

Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Add the sausage, breaking it up with a spatula, and cook until browned and cooked through. Remove sausage to a plate and set aside.

Step 2:

In the same skillet, add another tablespoon olive oil. Sauté the onions for 2 minutes until softened, then add the mushrooms. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms are golden and their moisture has evaporated, about 5 minutes.

Step 3:

Add garlic and thyme to the skillet, cooking for 1 minute until fragrant.

Step 4:

Stir in the gnocchi, letting it toast slightly for 2 to 3 minutes.

Step 5:

Pour in the chicken broth and cream, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Return the sausage to the skillet and bring to a gentle simmer.

Step 6:

Fold in the spinach and half the Parmesan. Season with salt and pepper.

Step 7:

Simmer uncovered for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the sauce thickens and the gnocchi are tender.

Step 8:

Sprinkle with remaining Parmesan and serve hot.

Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

Check price on Amazon

Create smooth frozen drinks, slushies, and frappés for desserts and parties using juices, coffee, or wine.

Check price on Amazon

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Making this meal always brings the family together, sharing stories while the delicious aroma fills the kitchen.

Variations

For a vegetarian option, omit sausage and add sautéed wild mushrooms with a pinch of smoked paprika to maintain richness.

Serving Suggestions

Pairs well with a crisp Chardonnay or a rustic red wine for an elevated dining experience.

Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.

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Melt chocolate or cheese smoothly for dipping fruits, pretzels, and snacks during desserts and parties.

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This one-pan skillet is the ultimate comfort food that is both simple to prepare and crowd-pleasing.

Saffron Brook Recipe Q&As

→ Can I substitute the sausage with a different meat?

Yes, turkey or chicken sausage can be used as lighter alternatives without sacrificing flavor.

→ What type of mushrooms work best in this dish?

Cremini or button mushrooms are ideal for their earthy flavor and tender texture when sautéed.

→ Is there a way to add more depth to the sauce?

Adding a splash of white wine along with the broth enhances the sauce’s richness and complexity.

→ How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Omit the sausage and increase wild mushrooms, adding smoked paprika for a smoky, savory note.

→ What wine pairs well with this skillet meal?

A crisp Chardonnay or rustic red wine complements the creamy sauce and savory flavors beautifully.