Chorizo Gnocchi with Mozzarella

This Chorizo Gnocchi with Mozzarella is my favorite kind of weeknight comfort food bringing together smoky sausage golden gnocchi and creamy melted cheese in a spicy tomato sauce. I love that it comes together in one pan with simple steps but tastes like something you would order at a cozy trattoria. Baked until bubbly with a cheesy crust every bite is hearty and deeply satisfying.

The first time I made this was on a rainy Sunday when we wanted something different but easy and it instantly became a regular request in my house especially when we have friends over for dinner

Ingredients

• Potato gnocchi: choose quality shelf stable for convenience or fresh for extra pillowy texture they soak up the sauce beautifully
• Chorizo: Spanish or Mexican sausage brings deep smoky spice and a hint of heat always check for freshness and color
• Crushed tomatoes or passata: use a good brand for the richest sauce I love vine ripened for sweet tomato flavor
• Onion: dice it fine for a sweet base that melts into the sauce
• Garlic: fresh is best for a punchy fragrance and round flavor
• Olive oil: provides richness and helps the chorizo crisp up choose extra virgin when possible for fruity notes
• Fresh mozzarella: look for mozzarella balls that feel springy and moist they melt the best and create those irresistible cheese pulls
• Fresh basil: adds color and a herby brightness that lifts the dish
• Salt and pepper: round out all the flavors season to your taste as you go

Step-by-Step Instructions

Prepare the pan:

Use an oven safe skillet and add the olive oil heating it over medium until shimmering This ensures you get crispy bites on the chorizo and a golden crust under the gnocchi

Brown the chorizo:

Add your sliced or crumbled chorizo to the hot oil and cook until each piece is browned and edges are slightly crisp This step releases the flavorful oils that will coat the gnocchi later

Soften the aromatics:

Toss in the diced onion Cooking slowly for about five minutes is key as it makes the base sweet and silky without any harsh flavor Now add garlic and stir just until fragrant about thirty seconds This quick sauté unlocks the foundation of the sauce

Simmer the tomatoes:

Pour in your crushed tomatoes or passata Stir to combine and let this mixture bubble gently for ten minutes It will thicken slightly and concentrate the tomato flavor infusing with the chorizo

Cook the gnocchi:

Add the uncooked gnocchi directly into the sauce Push them down with a spoon so each one soaks in the liquid Let it all simmer together for five to seven minutes Stir occasionally The gnocchi will soften and absorb extra flavor from the sauce

Add the finishing touches:

Tear or slice your mozzarella and tuck pieces across the top of the skillet Scatter in the basil leaves for color and freshness

Bake to perfection:

Move the skillet into your preheated oven and bake for ten to fifteen minutes The cheese should melt deeply into the sauce and take on a golden hue For a bubbled crusty top broil for the last couple of minutes but keep a close eye so nothing burns

Rest and serve:

Take the skillet out and let it settle for five minutes This makes it easier to serve and lets the flavors meld

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This recipe is where mozzarella truly shines melting into long stretchy strands that make every spoonful extra tempting My nephew always races to get the crispiest cheese bits around the edge which leads to laughter and second helpings at the table

Storage tips

Leftovers keep well in a covered dish in the refrigerator for up to three days For best results reheat in the oven so the cheese gets melty again If frozen let thaw overnight then reheat gently

Ingredient substitutions

If you cannot find chorizo try spicy Italian sausage or even a plant based sausage for a meat free option Any melty cheese like provolone or fontina can replace mozzarella if desired You can also swap in gluten free gnocchi to accommodate allergies

Serving suggestions

A crisp green salad balances the richness perfectly or serve alongside roasted veggies and crusty bread for soaking up every drop of sauce This dish is a showstopper for casual get togethers and potlucks

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Cultural and historical context

Gnocchi is a classic Italian dumpling often served with simple sauces or baked with cheese This version blends Mediterranean inspiration with Spanish chorizo creating a fusion of bold flavors and tradition in every bite

Commonly Asked Questions

→ Can I use fresh or shelf-stable gnocchi?

Both fresh and shelf-stable gnocchi work well in this dish. Simply simmer them directly in the sauce as instructed.

→ Should the chorizo be sliced or crumbled?

You can use either sliced or crumbled chorizo based on your preference. Both offer delicious smoky flavor.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes. Prepare the components ahead, assemble before baking, and refrigerate. Bake when ready to serve.

→ What substitutions can I make for mozzarella?

You may use other melty cheeses like provolone or fontina for a different texture and flavor.

→ How can I add more heat?

To increase spiciness, add chopped fresh chili or a pinch of red pepper flakes with the tomatoes.

→ Is this dish suitable for vegetarians?

Add vegetarian sausage in place of chorizo or simply increase the cheese and basil for a meat-free version.