Name: One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1/3 pound ground spicy Italian chicken sausage (omit if vegetarian); 1 shallot, chopped; 4 cloves garlic, chopped; 1/2 cup oil-packed sun-dried tomatoes, oil drained and chopped; 2 cups chopped spinach; 1-2 tablespoons Calabrian chiles in oil; 2 tablespoons Italian seasoning; Salt and black pepper, to taste; 3 tablespoons tomato paste; 1/2 cup whole milk ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 1 cup shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese; 1 pound fresh potato gnocchi; 3 cups water; Fresh basil, for garnish

Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 33 reviews

If you are craving a cozy, flavorful dish that comes together effortlessly, this One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi Recipe is about to become your new favorite. It’s a delightful combination of tender potato gnocchi, the rich creaminess of ricotta, and the vibrant tang of sun-dried tomatoes—all melded in one skillet for minimal fuss and maximum comfort. Whether you’re whipping it up on a busy weeknight or impressing friends at a casual dinner, this recipe balances bold Italian flavors with a creamy, cheesy finish that feels like a warm hug on a plate.

Ingredients You'll Need

A white bowl with blue floral patterns sits filled with small, creamy beige gnocchi that have deep grooves, some spilling onto a white marbled surface. To the left of the bowl, there are green leaves and small flowers with yellow and red petals resting gently beside it. On the right edge of the image, a white plate with intricate blue designs holds a wedge of yellow cheese topped with a green leaf. The lighting casts soft shadows, highlighting the textures of the gnocchi and the natural colors of the foliage and cheese. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering just the right ingredients makes all the difference in this recipe. Each element brings its own magic—from the spicy kick of Italian sausage to the fresh pop of basil—creating a harmony of textures and tastes that will linger pleasantly with every bite.

Sun-dried tomatoes (½ cup, oil-packed): These deliver a sun-boosted sweetness and chewy texture that contrasts beautifully with the soft gnocchi.

Ground spicy Italian chicken sausage (⅓ pound): Adds a savory, slightly spicy depth; omit for a vegetarian option without skimping on flavor.
Shallot (1, chopped): Provides a mild oniony sweetness to balance the richer ingredients.
Garlic (4 cloves, chopped): Essential for that aromatic punch that lifts the dish.

Italian seasoning (2 tablespoons): A blend of dried herbs that builds the classic Italian backbone of this meal.
Calabrian chiles in oil (1-2 tablespoons): Infuses a smoky heat that energizes the entire skillet without overwhelming it.
Tomato paste (3 tablespoons): Concentrated tomato flavor that thickens and enriches the sauce.

Salt and black pepper: Simple seasonings that enhance every flavor in the pan.
Chopped spinach (2 cups): Adds a fresh, healthy green element and subtle earthiness.
Whole milk ricotta cheese (½ cup): Creamy and smooth, it makes the gnocchi irresistibly luscious.

Grated Parmesan (½ cup): Sharp, nutty notes that complement the ricotta’s creaminess perfectly.
Fresh potato gnocchi (1 pound): The soft pillows that soak up all the sauce and carry every flavor.
Shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese (1 cup): Melts beautifully to create a golden, bubbly finish on top.

Fresh basil: Bright, herbal garnish that cuts through the richness and adds freshness at the end.

How to Make One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Flavor Base

Start by preheating your oven to 425°F. Drain about 3 tablespoons of oil from your jar of sun-dried tomatoes into a large skillet — this oil is packed with flavor and will form the foundation of your sauce. Chop the sun-dried tomatoes finely and set them aside, ready to be folded in later.

Step 2: Brown the Sausage and Build Aromatics

If you’re using the spicy Italian chicken sausage, brown it over high heat in the skillet until it’s cooked through and starting to caramelize. This step unlocks deep, meaty flavors. Then, toss in the chopped shallots and garlic, stirring until fragrant and softened. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning, and stir to combine all those fragrant herbs with the sausage and aromatics.

Step 3: Add Heat and Richness

Now add the Calabrian chiles and tomato paste, stirring frequently. Allow the tomato paste to cook for around 5 minutes until it darkens and thickens slightly; this concentrates the flavors and gives the sauce a lovely richness and complexity. The chiles will infuse the whole dish with a gentle smoky heat that’s truly addictive.

Step 4: Simmer and Build the Sauce

Pour in 3 cups of water and season with salt and black pepper to taste. Bring the mixture up to a simmer over medium heat and let it cook gently for about 5 minutes. This step allows all the components to mingle and develop a well-rounded, saucy base that will cling beautifully to the gnocchi.

Step 5: Cook Gnocchi and Greens

Stir in the chopped spinach, reserved sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh potato gnocchi. Let everything simmer together for 5 minutes until the spinach wilts and the gnocchi are heated through, absorbing some of the sauce’s flavors. This is where the dish transforms into a comforting, vibrant meal.

Step 6: Add Cheeses and Bake

Mix in the creamy ricotta and grated Parmesan cheese thoroughly, making the sauce irresistibly silky and cheesy. Top the entire skillet with shredded provolone or mozzarella cheese, then transfer it to the oven. Bake for 10 minutes until the cheese melts into a golden, bubbly crown. Finish the dish with fresh basil leaves sprinkled on top for a pop of color and freshness.

How to Serve One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi Recipe

A close-up of a black pan filled with a mix of cooked chopped green kale and golden-yellow spiced mixture. The kale leaves are bright and wilted, scattered throughout the thick, textured golden mix that has small bits of red chili flakes visible. There is steam rising from the pan, showing the dish is hot. The black pan sits on a white marbled surface, and the background is softly dark and blurred. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Fresh basil is perfect for garnishing — its bright, peppery notes lighten the richness beautifully. For an extra touch, sprinkle some cracked black pepper or a little grated Parmesan over the top right before serving. If you love a crunch, toasted pine nuts or a drizzle of good-quality olive oil can also elevate the presentation and texture.

Side Dishes

This dish shines on its own but pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette. Roasted vegetables or garlic bread also complement the gnocchi nicely, providing variety in texture and balancing out the creamy, cheesy main dish.

Creative Ways to Present

For a special occasion, serve the gnocchi directly from a rustic cast-iron skillet to keep it warm and inviting on the table. Individual ramekins or small gratin dishes work beautifully for serving guests portioned, with a fresh basil leaf and a sprinkle of cheese on top for a charming personal touch.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

This One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi Recipe makes great leftovers. Store any uneaten portions in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making the next-day meal just as enjoyable.

Freezing

You can freeze leftover gnocchi, but it’s best to do so before baking. Place the prepared, unbaked gnocchi mixture (minus the mozzarella topping) in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the fridge, top with cheese, and bake as directed for a freshly baked finish.

Reheating

Reheat leftovers gently in a skillet over medium-low heat or in a microwave. If the gnocchi feels a bit dry, stir in a splash of water or broth to revive the sauce’s creaminess. To bring back that irresistible melted cheese texture, pop it under the broiler for a minute or two if reheating in an oven-safe dish.

FAQs

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply omit the spicy Italian chicken sausage, and you can even add mushrooms or extra spinach for more texture and flavor. The combination of sun-dried tomatoes and cheeses provides plenty of richness for a satisfying vegetarian meal.

What type of gnocchi works best?

Fresh potato gnocchi is ideal for this recipe because it cooks quickly and has a tender, pillowy texture that holds up well to the sauce. If using frozen, just adjust cooking time a bit longer until heated through.

Can I use dried sun-dried tomatoes instead of oil-packed?

Yes, but be sure to rehydrate them in warm water for 20 minutes beforehand and drain well. They won’t impart oil to the pan, so you might want to add a tablespoon of olive oil to replicate that richness.

Is Calabrian chile paste very spicy?

Calabrian chiles add a moderate heat with smoky, fruity undertones. If you’re sensitive to spice, start with just one tablespoon or substitute with a milder chili oil or paprika for flavor without too much heat.

What wine pairs well with this dish?

A medium-bodied red like a Chianti or Sangiovese pairs beautifully, as its acidity balances the richness of the ricotta and cheese while complementing the tomato and sausage flavors perfectly.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to comforting, flavorful Italian-inspired meals, this One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi Recipe truly stands out. Its creamy, spicy, and fresh flavors blend together with ease, making it a perfect go-to dish you’ll want to make again and again. So grab your skillet, invite some friends or family, and get ready to dive into a bowl of pure, cozy joy—you’re going to love every bite!

One-Pan Sun-Dried Tomato Ricotta Gnocchi Recipe

Ingredients You'll Need