Creamy Gnocchi with Boursin, Sausage, and Kale
Ingredients
- 1 pound curly or flat-leaf kale
- 1 pound sweet or spicy uncooked Italian sausage
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
optional
- 1 small yellow onion
- 1 ounce Parmesan cheese
plus more for serving, 1/2 cup firmly packed freshly grated or 1/3 cup store-bought grated
- 1 cup low-sodium chicken broth
divided, plus more as needed
- 1/2 teaspoon teaspoon red pepper flakes
plus more for garnish, optional
- Freshly ground black pepper
- 1 package soft garlic herb cheese
such as Boursin or Alouette, 5.2 to 6.5-ounce
- 1 package shelf-stable
fresh, or frozen gnocchi, 16-ounce
Directions
- 1
Remove and discard the tough stems from 1 pound kale. Stack the leaves and cut crosswise into 1-inch pieces.
- 2
Heat a large, straight-sided regular or cast iron skillet (at least 12 inches) over medium heat. Remove the casings from 1 pound Italian sausage. Add to the pan and use a wooden spoon to break the meat up into bite-sized pieces. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is cooked through and browned, 8 to 10 minutes.
- 3
Meanwhile, dice 1 small yellow onion (about 1 1/4 cups). Finely grate 1 ounce Parmesan cheese (about 1/2 packed cup), or measure out 1/3 cup store-bought grated.
- 4
Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a bowl. Add the onion to the pan (no need to wipe out) and stir to coat in the fat. If the pan is dry, add 1 tablespoon olive oil. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion is lightly golden brown around the edges, 3 to 5 minutes.
- 5
Add 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes if using and cook until the pepper is fragrant and lightly toasted, about 1 minute. Add the kale in batches and 1/4 cup of the low-sodium chicken broth. Toss with tongs and cook until the kale is wilted about 3/4 of the way down and a darker shade of green, 4 to 5 minutes.
- 6
Return the sausage and any accumulated juices in the bowl to the pan. Add 1 package soft garlic herb cheese and the remaining 3/4 cup chicken broth, and gently stir until the cheese is melted. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
- 7
Add 1 pound gnocchi and gently stir to combine. Return to a simmer and cook until the gnocchi begins to absorb the sauce and is heated through, 3 to 5 minutes. Add the Parmesan cheese and a few grinds of black pepper and stir to combine. If needed, add up to 1/2 cup more broth until a silky sauce forms that coats the pasta well.
- 8
Serve garnished with more Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes if desired.
Creamy Gnocchi with Boursin, Sausage, and Kale
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About this Recipe
Craving a deeply satisfying, comforting meal that feels special but comes together quickly? This Creamy Gnocchi with Boursin, Sausage, and Kale delivers a gourmet experience right to your home kitchen, perfect for any weeknight.
Why This Recipe Works
This recipe shines by combining tender, pillowy gnocchi with the luxurious creaminess of soft garlic herb cheese, like Boursin. The savory depth of Italian sausage and the fresh, earthy notes of kale create a perfectly balanced dish that feels both indulgent and wholesome. It’s a clever way to elevate simple ingredients into something truly memorable.
What to Expect
You're in for a treat with a velvety, garlicky sauce that generously coats every tender gnocchi. Each bite offers a delightful contrast: the richness of the Italian sausage—whether sweet or spicy, depending on your preference—is cut by the slight bitterness and vibrant texture of the kale. A hint of red pepper flakes, if you choose to add them, introduces a subtle warmth that ties all the flavors together beautifully. This is hearty comfort food at its finest, easy enough for a casual dinner but impressive enough for company.
Customization & Variations
Feel free to make this dish your own. Swap sweet Italian sausage for spicy to add more kick, or vice versa. If kale isn't your favorite, other sturdy greens like spinach or Swiss chard would work well, though they may require less cooking time. For an extra layer of flavor, consider a blend of Parmesan and Pecorino Romano cheese. Don't have Boursin? Another soft garlic herb cheese, like Alouette, will provide a similar creamy texture and aromatic profile.
Serving & Context
This creamy gnocchi is a complete, satisfying meal on its own, ideal for a cozy family dinner or a relaxed gathering with friends. Serve it hot, garnished with extra freshly ground black pepper and a generous dusting of grated Parmesan cheese.