Why You’ll Love One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi Recipe
This recipe brings together bold, comforting flavors in one easy skillet. The sun-dried tomatoes add a deep, tangy richness, while the ricotta makes the sauce creamy and smooth. The gnocchi turn tender and flavorful as they cook right in the pan, soaking up all the delicious seasoning.
You will also love how convenient this dish is. Since everything comes together in one pan and finishes in the oven, cleanup is simple. It is a great option for busy evenings, but it still feels hearty and impressive enough to serve to family or guests.
Another reason this recipe stands out is how flexible it is. You can make it with chicken sausage for extra protein or leave it out for a vegetarian version. With the spinach, cheeses, and spicy Calabrian chiles, every bite has a balance of richness, freshness, and gentle heat.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, oil drained
1/3 pound ground spicy Italian chicken sausage (omit if vegetarian)
1 shallot, chopped
4 cloves garlic, chopped
2 tablespoons Italian seasoning
1 to 2 tablespoons Calabrian chiles in oil
3 tablespoons tomato paste
Salt and black pepper, to taste
2 cups chopped spinach
1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese
1/2 cup grated Parmesan
1 pound fresh potato gnocchi
1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese
Fresh basil, for serving
Directions
Preheat your oven to 425°F. Drain 3 tablespoons of oil from the jar of sun-dried tomatoes into a large oven-safe skillet. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes and set them aside.
If you are using the chicken sausage, add it to the skillet and cook over high heat until browned. Stir in the chopped shallot, garlic, and Italian seasoning. Add the Calabrian chiles and tomato paste, then cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the tomato paste becomes darker and thicker.
Pour in 3 cups of water and season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook for 5 minutes so the flavors can blend.
Add the chopped spinach, chopped sun-dried tomatoes, and gnocchi to the skillet. Stir well and cook for another 5 minutes, until the gnocchi are heated through and the spinach has wilted.
Mix in the ricotta and grated Parmesan until everything is creamy and combined. Sprinkle the shredded provolone or mozzarella over the top.
Transfer the skillet to the oven and bake for 10 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbling. Remove from the oven and finish with fresh basil before serving.
Servings and timing
This recipe makes 6 servings.
Prep and cook time is about 40 minutes total.
Variations
For a vegetarian version, simply leave out the chicken sausage. The sun-dried tomatoes, cheeses, and seasonings still provide plenty of bold flavor.
You can swap the spinach for kale if you want a heartier green. Just keep in mind that kale may need a few extra minutes to soften.
If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the amount of Calabrian chiles or leave them out entirely. For more heat, add an extra spoonful of the chile oil.
Mozzarella gives this gnocchi a classic melty topping, but provolone adds a sharper, richer flavor. You can also use a mix of both for the best of both worlds.
For added protein, try using Italian turkey sausage instead of chicken sausage. It will still pair nicely with the creamy tomato base.
Storage/Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
To reheat, place a portion in a skillet over low heat with a splash of water or milk to loosen the sauce. Stir gently until warmed through. You can also reheat it in the microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.
If the pasta thickens in the fridge, adding a little liquid while reheating will help bring back its creamy texture.
Freezing is possible, but the texture of the gnocchi and cheese may change slightly once thawed and reheated, so this dish is best enjoyed fresh or within a few days.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe without sausage?
Yes, absolutely. The sausage can be omitted for a vegetarian version, and the dish will still be full of flavor from the sun-dried tomatoes, garlic, herbs, and cheese.
Can I use shelf-stable gnocchi instead of fresh gnocchi?
Yes, shelf-stable gnocchi can work well in this recipe. Just keep an eye on the texture and cooking time, as some varieties may need a little more liquid or an extra minute or two to soften.
Is this recipe very spicy?
It has a moderate kick from the Calabrian chiles and spicy sausage. You can easily make it milder by reducing the chiles or using a mild sausage.
What type of skillet should I use?
An oven-safe skillet is best since the dish starts on the stovetop and finishes in the oven. If your skillet is not oven-safe, transfer everything to a baking dish before baking.
Can I use another cheese instead of ricotta?
Yes, but ricotta gives the dish its creamy texture. Mascarpone or even a little cream cheese could work in a pinch, though the flavor and richness will be slightly different.
Can I add more vegetables?
Yes, this recipe is easy to customize. Mushrooms, zucchini, or chopped bell peppers would all be tasty additions.
How do I know when the gnocchi are done?
The gnocchi should be tender and heated through after simmering in the sauce. They will continue to cook slightly in the oven as the cheese melts.
Can I prepare this ahead of time?
You can prepare the sausage and sauce base ahead of time, then add the gnocchi and cheeses when you are ready to finish the dish. This helps save time on a busy evening.
What can I serve with this gnocchi?
This dish pairs well with a simple green salad, roasted vegetables, or crusty bread for soaking up the sauce.
Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, frozen spinach can be used instead of fresh. Thaw it first and squeeze out as much extra moisture as possible before adding it to the skillet.
Conclusion
One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi is a rich, cozy, and satisfying meal that delivers big flavor with very little fuss. Between the creamy ricotta, melty cheese, tender gnocchi, and savory tomato base, every bite feels comforting and hearty. Whether you make it with sausage or keep it vegetarian, this easy one-pan dinner is a great recipe to keep on repeat.
