There’s something so satisfying about a pasta dish that’s packed with bold, layered flavor while still feeling simple and approachable. This is one of those recipes that delivers on both—rich, savory, and just a little bit indulgent, without being heavy.

Tender, pillowy bites are coated in a deeply flavorful mixture of garlic, herbs, and savory elements that come together to create a perfect balance of richness and brightness. Finished with a generous sprinkle of cheese and a fresh touch of basil, every bite feels comforting yet elevated.

It’s the kind of dish that feels right at home for a cozy night in, but also polished enough to serve when you want something a little more special—simple ingredients, thoughtfully combined, and full of flavor.

Now that you have a feel for how rich and flavorful this dish comes together, it’s time to make it yourself. This recipe is straightforward, uses simple ingredients, and comes together in just a few easy steps.

Serves: 3

Ingredients

1 pound hot sausage (feel free to use sweet if you do not like spicy sausage)

2 cloves of garlic minced

1 cup sun-dried tomatoes (feel free to use marinated ones or non-marinated works)

1 package potato gnocchi

2 cups of fresh baby spinach

Salt & pepper

1-2 tablespoons oil

2 tablespoons mascarpone (add extra for more creaminess)

Parmesan cheese to sprinkle on top

1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

Directions

Boil a pot of water for gnocchi. Follow directions on the back of gnocchi package. Once gnocchi is cooked set aside. To a skillet, add sausage and sauté over medium-heat for about 5-10 minutes. Break up sausage as you cook it in skillet. Make sure sausage is cooked thoroughly and no longer pink. Set sausage aside until later. Over medium heat add oil and sauté garlic for about 30 seconds. Add spinach, sun-dried tomatoes, salt and pepper. Stir until spinach becomes wilted. Add crumbled sausage to skillet and stir until well combined. Lower heat at this point and add mascarpone and stir. Lastly, add in gnocchi and stir until coated. Once gnocchi is coated in sauce, serve in your favorite pasta bowl and sprinkle parmesan cheese over the top and crushed red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy!