Name: Baked Gnocchi with Kale and Sausage Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 3 tablespoons olive oil; 1/4-1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1 tablespoon whole fennel seeds; 4 large garlic cloves, chopped small; 28 ounce can whole peeled tomatoes; 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste); 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; 2 teaspoons dried oregano; 1 bunch kale, about 4 cups destemmed and chopped; 1/2 pound Italian sausage links, precooked (or plant-based sausage alternative); 1 1/2 pounds gnocchi, uncooked (store-bought or homemade); 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, cut into 1/4-inch slices (or burrata or ricotta as alternatives); 3/4 cup pecorino romano or parmesan, grated

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 42 reviews

If you’re craving a dish that feels like a warm, comforting hug on a plate, this Baked Gnocchi with Kale and Sausage Recipe is exactly what you need. It brilliantly combines pillowy gnocchi, hearty Italian sausage, and vibrant kale all nestled in a rich, garlicky tomato sauce topped with melty mozzarella and sharp pecorino. The flavors meld together beautifully, with just the right amount of spice and freshness, making this casserole a perfect weeknight winner or crowd-pleaser at any gathering. I’m so excited to share this recipe with you—it’s one of those dishes that quickly becomes a family favorite!

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows ingredients arranged on a white tray and white small bowls on a white marbled surface. On the main rectangular white tray, there are two brown sausages placed side by side on the left, two round white pieces of mozzarella cheese on the right, and a small pile of shredded white cheese above the mozzarella. A small white bowl containing red chili flakes is placed on the upper left of the sausage and cheese. Above this tray, there is a small white bowl filled with green fennel seeds. To the top right, there is a larger white bowl filled with uncooked gnocchi pieces. On the left side of the image, there is a bunch of dark green kale leaves along with a few cloves of garlic, some peeled and some unpeeled, scattered around. A jar with red tomato sauce is partly visible on the right edge of the image. The setup is simple and neat, with all items on a white marbled texture. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

No fancy or hard-to-find ingredients here—just simple, wholesome components that each bring their own magic to the table. From the fragrant fennel seeds adding that subtle licorice note to the tender kale that balances the rich sausage, every item plays a key part in making this dish sing.

Olive oil: A quality extra virgin olive oil ensures the garlic and spices toast beautifully, creating the flavor foundation.
Red pepper flakes: Just enough heat to wake up your taste buds without overpowering the dish.
Whole fennel seeds: Adds a sweet, aromatic crunch that complements the sausage perfectly.
Garlic cloves: The soul of the sauce—fresh and pungent for an authentic taste.
Whole peeled tomatoes: These form the base of the sauce, offering bright acidity balanced by natural sweetness.
Salt and black pepper: To season and bring all flavors into harmony.
Dried oregano: Herbal notes that deepen the Mediterranean vibe of the recipe.
Kale: Adds a vibrant green color and nutritious bite to contrast the richness.
Italian sausage links: Cooked beforehand, they infuse the dish with smoky, meaty goodness (plant-based options work too!).
Gnocchi: The fluffy potato pillows that soak up the sauce and melt in your mouth.
Mozzarella slices: For that luscious, gooey top layer.
Pecorino Romano or Parmesan: Grated to add salty, nutty flavor complexity.

How to Make Baked Gnocchi with Kale and Sausage Recipe

In a large white pan on a white marbled surface, there is a thick tomato sauce forming the base layer, bright red and smooth with a slight shine. On top of the sauce, on one side, pieces of sliced sausage are placed, showing a pinkish interior with specks of seasoning and a smooth, slightly glossy outer skin. Next to the sausage, a large pile of dark green kale leaves with a bumpy, textured surface fills half of the pan, covering the sauce partly with its fresh, leafy appearance. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Step 1: Sauté Aromatics and Spices

Start by preheating your oven to 350°F. Heat olive oil in a large, ovenproof skillet or brasier over medium heat. Sauté the chopped garlic alongside red pepper flakes and whole fennel seeds for 2 to 3 minutes. This layer of toasted spices and aromatic garlic forms the backbone of your sauce, filling your kitchen with an irresistible fragrance that makes you eager to keep cooking.

Step 2: Build the Tomato-Kale Sauce

Next, add the canned whole peeled tomatoes, seasoning with salt, black pepper, and dried oregano. Use a spoon to roughly break up the tomatoes, allowing their juicy essence to spread evenly. Stir in the chopped kale and lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Let everything cook for about 10 minutes until the kale becomes tender and the sauce thickens slightly. This simmering step melds the tomatoes and kale into a wholesome, flavorful base that perfectly complements the other ingredients.

Step 3: Combine Sausage and Gnocchi

Once the sauce has thickened and the kale is tender, remove the pan from the heat. Stir in the precooked Italian sausage links and uncooked gnocchi, evenly distributing them so every bite has a little bit of everything. The gnocchi will soften while baking, absorbing the delicious sauce flavors.

Step 4: Top and Bake to Perfection

Sprinkle the grated pecorino romano or parmesan over the top, then layer on slices of fresh mozzarella. Slide the skillet into your preheated oven and bake uncovered for 20 minutes until the cheese is bubbly and golden, and the gnocchi is tender. The crusty cheese topping adds irresistibly cheesy richness and texture that makes this baked dish absolutely irresistible.

How to Serve Baked Gnocchi with Kale and Sausage Recipe

Garnishes

Fresh herbs like chopped basil or flat-leaf parsley sprinkled over the top bring a pop of color and freshness, balancing the richness with a herbal lift. A drizzle of high-quality olive oil right before serving enhances the flavors and gives the dish a luscious sheen.

Side Dishes

This baked gnocchi pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed simply with lemon and olive oil for a refreshing contrast. Garlic bread or a crusty baguette are perfect for scooping up any leftover sauce. For a heartier meal, roasted seasonal vegetables complement the dish’s flavors beautifully.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve it straight from the skillet for a rustic, family-style vibe that encourages sharing and conversation. For a fancier occasion, portion it into individual ramekins, sprinkle with extra cheese, and broil for a minute to create a perfectly golden crust. Either way, your guests will be impressed by this vibrant, soul-satisfying meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

You can refrigerate any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making next-day servings even better. Just be sure to cool it completely before storing to maintain freshness and texture.

Freezing

This Baked Gnocchi with Kale and Sausage Recipe freezes beautifully. Transfer portions into freezer-safe containers or bags and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating to preserve the integrity of the gnocchi and keep the kale from becoming mushy.

Reheating

For the best reheating results, warm leftovers in the oven at 350°F until heated through and the cheese is melty again. You can also reheat in a skillet on medium-low heat with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it tends to make gnocchi gummy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time, making this recipe accessible for a quick weekday meal. Just add them uncooked to the sauce before baking as the recipe instructs.

Can I prepare the sauce ahead of time?

Definitely! You can prepare the tomato-kale sauce a day in advance and refrigerate it. When ready to bake, combine with sausage and gnocchi and proceed with baking. This can save you valuable time on busy days.

What if I don’t have whole fennel seeds?

You can substitute with a pinch of ground fennel or even a little anise seed if you want to keep that subtle licorice flavor. If neither is available, simply omit them; the dish will still taste delicious.

Can I make this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure your sausage and cheese are gluten-free certified. This way everyone can enjoy this hearty and wholesome dish without worry.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Baked Gnocchi with Kale and Sausage Recipe inspires you to create a cozy meal that’s full of flavor and love. It’s one of those dishes that brings people together around the table and keeps them coming back for more. Give it a try, and I promise it will become a favorite in your recipe rotation too!

Baked Gnocchi with Kale and Sausage Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need