Name: Four Cheese Gnocchi Al Forno with Sausage Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 40 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 pound gnocchi; 1 pound Italian sausage; 3 garlic cloves, finely chopped; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 28 ounce can crushed tomatoes; 8 ounces mozzarella, cut into 1/2 inch cubes or shredded; 1 cup whole milk ricotta cheese; 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese; 4 ounces burrata cheese; Fresh basil leaves

Jump to Recipe· 4.3 from 32 reviews

If you are searching for a dish that combines comfort, cheesy goodness, and a touch of Italian soul, you have hit the jackpot with this Four Cheese Gnocchi Al Forno with Sausage Recipe. This hearty baked gnocchi brings together pillowy potato dumplings wrapped in a robust sausage tomato sauce, generously layered with four types of rich cheeses that melt into a bubbly, golden crust. It is the perfect crowd-pleaser for family dinners or special occasions, warming hearts and satisfying cravings with every gooey bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows browned ground meat cooking in a white pan with orange edges on a stove. The meat is broken into small, uneven pieces and is partially cooked with some areas still pink. On top of the meat, finely minced garlic is sprinkled, adding a touch of white color. The meat sits in a layer of melted butter or oil that is golden yellow and shiny, covering the bottom of the pan. Steam rises from the cooking meat, giving a sense of heat and sizzling. The stove beneath has a dark surface, while the pan contrasts with its bright white inside and vibrant orange rim. The background is a white marbled texture. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Gathering simple but standout ingredients is key to nailing this dish. Each one plays an essential role from the soft gnocchi to the flavorful sausage and the harmonious blend of cheeses that give this recipe its signature creamy, indulgent texture and marvelous color.

Olive oil: Adds a subtle fruity richness and helps caramelize the sausage beautifully.
Gnocchi: The tender potato dumplings provide a delightful base that soaks up all the savory sauce.
Italian sausage: Brings a robust, spiced flavor that complements the creamy cheeses perfectly.
Garlic cloves: Finely chopped to infuse the sauce with fragrant warmth.
Dried oregano: Offers an earthy herbal note that ties the tomato and meat together.
Crushed tomatoes: The hearty sauce element that brings acidity and depth.
Mozzarella cheese: Cubed or shredded, it melts into gooey strands that bind the dish enthrallingly.
Whole milk ricotta cheese: Creates creamy pockets throughout, mellowing the flavors.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Adds a sharp, nutty kick to balance the richness.
Burrata cheese: Topped at the end for a luxurious creamy finish that elevates the whole dish.
Fresh basil leaves: Provide bright herbal freshness as a finishing touch.

How to Make Four Cheese Gnocchi Al Forno with Sausage Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Gnocchi

Start by preheating your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit and bringing a large pot of salted water to a rolling boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 8 minutes. This floating is your cue that they are perfectly cooked. Drain and set them aside for now. This step ensures the gnocchi remain pillowy and ready to soak up the rich sauce later.

Step 2: Cook the Sausage

Heat olive oil in a wide Dutch oven or a large pan over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it up with a sturdy spatula, allowing it to brown nicely. Halfway through cooking, toss in the finely chopped garlic and dried oregano. Continue sautéing until the sausage is cooked through and the outside achieves a nice caramelized crust. These layers of flavor form the heart of your gnocchi dish.

Step 3: Simmer the Sauce

Pour the crushed tomatoes into the sausage mixture and stir thoroughly. Let it simmer gently for about 10 minutes, allowing it to reduce slightly and intensify in flavor. This simmering process thickens the sauce so it perfectly clings to the gnocchi, ensuring every bite bursts with savory goodness.

Step 4: Combine Gnocchi and Sauce

Gently fold the cooked gnocchi into the hearty sausage-tomato sauce, making sure each piece is well coated. This mingling allows the gnocchi to absorb the rich flavors fully, setting the stage for the cheesy al forno bake.

Step 5: Layer the Cheeses

Top the gnocchi mixture with cubes of mozzarella, dollops of ricotta, and a generous grating of Parmesan cheese. This medley of four cheeses creates a luscious, creamy texture that is both indulgent and comforting when baked.

Step 6: Bake Until Bubbly

Place the assembled gnocchi in the preheated oven and bake for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the cheese melts into a bubbly masterpiece. For an irresistible golden, crisp top, switch to the broiler for an additional 3 to 5 minutes. This final step adds texture and visual appeal that makes this Four Cheese Gnocchi Al Forno with Sausage Recipe absolutely irresistible.

Step 7: Add Burrata and Basil

Once out of the oven, top the dish with roughly torn burrata cheese and scatter fresh basil leaves over the surface. The burrata introduces a creamy richness that contrasts beautifully against the crispy baked cheese, while the basil adds a fresh aroma and pop of color.

How to Serve Four Cheese Gnocchi Al Forno with Sausage Recipe

A large pan filled with a cooked dish showing soft, oval-shaped yellow gnocchi pieces mostly submerged in a thick, bright red tomato sauce. Scattered in the sauce are small brown sausages and white, melted cheese blobs that are lightly browned on top, giving a bubbly and creamy texture. The sauce appears chunky with bits of tomato and has a slight shine from the oil. The pan is white on the inside with an orange rim, and the edges of the pan are splattered with sauce, showing signs of cooking. The photo is taken on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

The finishing touches make all the difference. Alongside the fresh basil and burrata, consider a drizzle of high-quality olive oil or a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little heat. These simple additions elevate the visual appeal and add subtle layers of flavor.

Side Dishes

This dish shines as a rich main course, so pairing it with fresh, crisp salads or roasted vegetables helps balance out the meal. A light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette or garlic roasted broccoli complements it perfectly without competing with those four glorious cheeses.

Creative Ways to Present

For a festive touch, serve in individual ramekins or small cast iron skillets straight from the oven. This not only keeps everything hot but also gives a charming, rustic feel. You can also serve it family-style in a big baking dish, letting everyone dive into the cheesy goodness.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

If you happen to have any of this Four Cheese Gnocchi Al Forno with Sausage Recipe left over, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors continue to meld beautifully, making reheated servings just as delicious as the first.

Freezing

This dish freezes wonderfully. Simply let it cool completely, then place it in freezer-safe containers. Freeze for up to 2 months. When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best texture and flavor.

Reheating

The best way to reheat is in the oven at 350 degrees Fahrenheit until warmed through, which helps restore the crispy cheese topping. Avoid microwaving when possible, as it can make the gnocchi a bit gummy and the top lose its crunch.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi work perfectly and save time without sacrificing flavor or texture. Just follow the cooking instructions on the package before baking.

What cheeses are included in the four cheese blend?

The star cheeses here are mozzarella, ricotta, Parmesan, and burrata. Together, they create a balance of meltiness, creaminess, sharpness, and richness that is utterly delicious.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Simply omit the Italian sausage and consider adding sautéed mushrooms or eggplant for a hearty, flavorful vegetarian alternative.

Is this recipe very spicy?

No, the sausage adds savory depth without overwhelming heat. If you prefer more spice, you could add crushed red pepper or use a spicy Italian sausage.

How do I know when the gnocchi is cooked perfectly?

The best sign is when the gnocchi float to the top of boiling water, which usually takes about 8 minutes. At this point, they are tender and ready to be combined with the sauce.

Final Thoughts

There’s something so special about Four Cheese Gnocchi Al Forno with Sausage Recipe — it’s like a warm hug on a plate, full of comforting flavors and satisfying textures. Whether you’re cooking for loved ones or treating yourself, this dish promises to become a beloved favorite in your recipe collection. Don’t wait to try it; once you do, you’ll understand why it’s such a hit!