Chorizo Gnocchi with Mozzarella

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There is something utterly comforting about digging into a bubbling skillet of baked gnocchi. The way the cheese stretches as you spoon out each serving, the aroma of smoky chorizo dancing in the air, and the soft pillows of gnocchi soaking up all that rich tomato sauce. When I first made this Chorizo Gnocchi with Mozzarella, I didn’t expect it to become such a regular request in my home, but it stole the show at the very first bite.

What makes this dish special to me is how it manages to taste like you’ve been cooking all day when in reality, it takes just one pot and under 40 minutes. The smoky depth of the chorizo builds an irresistible foundation, balanced beautifully by the fresh mozzarella’s creamy melt and the hint of basil on top. It’s one of those recipes that gives you the feel of an indulgent Italian meal without the fuss.

This recipe was born from a craving for something bold, cheesy, and hearty, and it delivered more than I could have imagined. Whether you’re cooking for guests or just want a cozy night in, it brings warmth and flavor in every bite. I’m so excited to share this with you.

Why You’ll Love This Chorizo Gnocchi with Mozzarella

This dish is a serious flavor bomb. You’ve got crispy bits of chorizo adding spice and texture, gnocchi that get slightly crisp on the edges while staying soft inside, and a tomato sauce that simmers with the oils and seasoning from the sausage. Add golden melted mozzarella and a few fresh basil leaves and you’ve got dinner perfection.

It’s quick enough for weeknights but impressive enough to serve at a dinner party. And cleanup? Just one skillet. If you love comfort food that doesn’t take hours to make, this recipe will become your new favorite.

How to Make the Chorizo Gnocchi with Mozzarella

Step 1: Cook the Chorizo
Start by heating a large oven-safe skillet over medium heat. Add the chorizo (casings removed if using links) and break it apart as it cooks. Let it brown and crisp slightly, releasing its oils and spices. This will be the flavor base of your dish.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics
To the rendered chorizo oil, add some chopped onion and garlic. Stir and let them soften for a few minutes until fragrant. If you want a bit of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes works beautifully here.

Step 3: Build the Sauce
Pour in crushed tomatoes or a good-quality marinara sauce, stirring to mix everything. Let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together. Add salt and pepper to taste, and stir in a handful of fresh spinach if you like some greens.

Step 4: Add the Gnocchi
Toss the uncooked gnocchi directly into the skillet. They will cook in the sauce, absorbing all the spicy, tomatoey goodness. Let everything simmer gently for about 7-10 minutes until the gnocchi are tender.

Step 5: Add Mozzarella and Bake
Turn off the heat, top everything with torn fresh mozzarella. Place the skillet under the broiler for 2-3 minutes or in a 400°F oven for about 8-10 minutes, until the cheese is melted, bubbly, and golden brown.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve
Remove the skillet from the oven and let it cool slightly. Finish with fresh chopped basil and cracked black pepper.

Recipe Variations and Possible Substitutions

If you’re not a fan of chorizo, try Italian sausage, spicy ground turkey, or even plant-based sausage crumbles. Each brings its own unique flavor while still working well with the sauce and cheese.

For a creamier version, stir in a splash of heavy cream or a dollop of mascarpone before adding the mozzarella. You can also swap in ricotta or a mix of cheddar and parmesan if mozzarella isn’t on hand.

To sneak in more vegetables, stir in diced zucchini, mushrooms, or kale. You can even use cauliflower gnocchi or whole wheat versions to adjust the recipe to your preferences.

Serving and Pairing Suggestions

This dish is hearty enough to serve on its own, but if you want to round out the meal, I recommend a crisp green salad with a zesty vinaigrette to cut through the richness. A side of garlic bread or warm focaccia also pairs beautifully, perfect for soaking up the extra sauce.

For drinks, a glass of red wine like Chianti or a light-bodied Pinot Noir complements the spiciness of the chorizo without overpowering it. If you’re leaning non-alcoholic, a sparkling water with lemon or a basil-infused iced tea can bring a refreshing contrast.

Storage and Reheating Tips

Leftovers (if you have any!) can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place a portion in the microwave or warm it gently on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to loosen the sauce.

You can also freeze this dish. Let it cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat as directed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use pre-cooked gnocchi?

Yes, shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi works best for this recipe. No need to boil it beforehand — it cooks right in the sauce.

What if I don’t have an oven-safe skillet?

No problem! After cooking everything on the stovetop, you can transfer the mixture to a baking dish before topping it with mozzarella and baking.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely. Replace the chorizo with vegetarian sausage or skip it altogether and add more veggies like mushrooms, zucchini, or eggplant.

How do I prevent the cheese from burning?

Keep a close eye if you’re using the broiler. Alternatively, bake at 400°F for a gentler, more controlled melt.

Is this spicy?

Chorizo does bring some heat, but it’s not overwhelming. To adjust the spice level, you can use mild chorizo or skip the red pepper flakes.

Related Recipe You’ll Like

If you loved the comforting richness of this gnocchi skillet, I have a few more cozy favorites to try next. You won’t want to miss my One Pot Creamy Sausage Rigatoni, a dinner-worthy pasta that’s just as satisfying and simple. Another top contender is this Creamy Tomato Spinach Pasta — especially if you’re looking to switch up your sauce game while staying in the realm of velvety comfort. And if you’re in the mood for something with a crispy twist, these Crispy Jalapeno Popper Egg Rolls make a fantastic appetizer or spicy side.

Save and Share This Recipe for Later

If this Chorizo Gnocchi with Mozzarella made your dinner table a little happier, don’t forget to pin this recipe to your favorite board on Pinterest. It’s a must-save for busy weeknights or anytime you want something warm and cheesy. And if you know someone who could use a little one-skillet magic in their life, send it their way! Share it on Facebook, text it to a friend, or email it to your favorite foodie. Recipes like this are meant to be passed around.

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