Easy Sheet Pan Pesto Gnocchi

When it comes to weeknight dinners, simplicity, flavor, and convenience are often the guiding principles. One dish that perfectly embodies these qualities is Easy Sheet Pan Pesto Gnocchi with Burst Cherry Tomatoes, Chicken Sausage, and Burrata. This delightful meal combines tender gnocchi, juicy cherry tomatoes, and savory sausage, all brought together with aromatic pesto. With a touch of creamy burrata, this dish transforms into a decadent, comforting feast. Whether you’re a busy professional, a parent juggling schedules, or simply someone who loves good food with minimal fuss, this recipe is bound to become a staple in your kitchen.

The Allure of Sheet Pan Meals

Before we dive into the recipe, let’s take a moment to appreciate the magic of sheet pan meals. The concept is straightforward: throw a variety of ingredients on a single pan, roast them in the oven, and voilà—dinner is served! Here are a few reasons why sheet pan meals are so beloved:

1. Minimal Cleanup: With everything cooked on one pan, you’ll save time and effort when it comes to cleaning up afterward.
2. Flavor Development: Roasting ingredients allows them to caramelize and develop deeper flavors, creating a dish that’s both savory and satisfying.
3. Customizable: You can mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or what’s in season, making it easy to adapt the dish to your preferences.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

1. Quick and Simple: The recipe is straightforward, requiring minimal prep time and just one pan to clean afterward.
2. Rich, Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of pesto, cherry tomatoes, and chicken sausage creates a dish that bursts with flavor.
3. Versatile Options: This recipe is easily adaptable; you can use different proteins, vegetables, or even make it entirely plant-based.
4. Comforting and Satisfying: Gnocchi provides a comforting base, while the juicy tomatoes and creamy burrata add freshness and indulgence.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s take a closer look at the ingredients you’ll need to create this mouthwatering dish:

Key Ingredients

• 1 (16-oz.) pkg. potato gnocchi: Frozen gnocchi is super convenient and cooks up perfectly in the oven. You can also use frozen cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb alternative.
• 3 Tbsp. extra-virgin olive oil: This rich oil not only enhances the flavor of the dish but also helps the ingredients roast beautifully.
• 3 links cooked Italian chicken sausage: Sliced into 1/2-inch rounds. For a plant-based option, substitute with your favorite vegan sausage, such as the Field Roast brand.
• 1 pint cherry tomatoes: These sweet, juicy tomatoes will burst while roasting, adding a delightful sweetness to the dish.
• 1 small (or 1/2 large) red onion: Adds sweetness and depth. The onions caramelize beautifully when roasted.
• 1/2 cup prepared pesto: Use a quality store-bought brand, or make your own for a fresher taste. I highly recommend @delallofoods for its rich flavor.
• 8 oz. burrata cheese (optional): This creamy cheese adds a luxurious touch, making the dish even more indulgent.

Optional Ingredients for Variation

• Additional Vegetables: Consider adding bell peppers, zucchini, or asparagus for extra nutrition and flavor.
• Fresh Herbs: A sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley before serving can enhance the dish’s aroma and appearance.
• Grated Cheese: Parmesan or pecorino can be used as a finishing touch for those who want an extra layer of flavor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Now that we have our ingredients ready, let’s walk through the process of making this easy sheet pan meal.

Step 1: Preheat Your Oven

Begin by preheating your oven to 400°F (200°C). A hot oven is essential for roasting the ingredients to perfection, ensuring that they caramelize rather than steam.

Step 2: Prepare the Ingredients

While the oven is heating, take some time to prepare your ingredients:

• Slice the Sausage: If you’re using cooked chicken sausage, slice it into 1/2-inch rounds. This size allows the sausage to heat through and develop a nice browning.
• Chop the Onion: Peel and slice the red onion into wedges or thick strips. The onion will sweeten and soften as it roasts.
• Rinse the Cherry Tomatoes: Give your cherry tomatoes a quick rinse to remove any dirt or residue.

Step 3: Assemble on the Sheet Pan

1. Spread the Gnocchi: On a large baking sheet, spread the frozen potato gnocchi evenly. There’s no need to thaw them; they’ll cook beautifully in the oven.
2. Add the Sausage and Vegetables: Scatter the sliced sausage, cherry tomatoes, and red onion over the gnocchi. This colorful array not only looks appealing but also adds layers of flavor.
3. Drizzle with Olive Oil: Pour 3 tablespoons of extra-virgin olive oil over everything. Use a spatula or your hands to toss the ingredients gently, ensuring they are well coated with the oil.
4. Season: Sprinkle with salt and pepper to taste. This simple seasoning enhances the flavors of the ingredients.

Step 4: Roast in the Oven

Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and roast for 20-25 minutes. About halfway through the cooking time, give everything a good toss to ensure even cooking.

You’ll know it’s ready when:

• The gnocchi are golden brown and slightly crispy on the outside.
• The sausage is heated through with a lovely caramelized exterior.
• The cherry tomatoes have burst, creating a delicious sauce that mingles with the pesto.

Step 5: Add the Pesto

Once the ingredients are beautifully roasted, remove the pan from the oven. While it’s still hot, drizzle the prepared pesto over the gnocchi and other ingredients. Toss everything together gently, allowing the pesto to coat all the components evenly. This step is crucial; the warmth of the dish helps to release the flavors in the pesto.

Step 6: Serve with Burrata

For an extra touch of indulgence, tear the burrata cheese into pieces and place it on top of the warm gnocchi mixture. The heat from the dish will slightly melt the burrata, creating a creamy texture that elevates the entire meal.

Step 7: Enjoy!

Serve immediately, garnishing with additional basil or grated Parmesan if desired. Grab a fork and dig in—this dish is a celebration of flavors and textures!

Tips for Success

To ensure that your sheet pan pesto gnocchi turns out perfectly every time, here are some helpful tips:

1. Use Quality Pesto: The pesto is a key ingredient, so choose a high-quality brand or make your own. Homemade pesto can be as simple as blending fresh basil, garlic, nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil.
2. Customize Your Veggies: Don’t hesitate to add other vegetables you have on hand. Bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can be excellent additions that complement the dish.
3. Make it Vegan: If you prefer a plant-based meal, substitute the chicken sausage for a vegan variety and omit the burrata. You can also enhance the dish with nutritional yeast for a cheesy flavor.
4. Adjust Cooking Times: Depending on your oven, you may need to adjust the cooking time slightly. Keep an eye on the gnocchi and vegetables to ensure they don’t overcook.
5. Store Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until warmed through.

Pairing Suggestions

Now that you have this delicious dish ready to serve, you might be wondering what to pair it with for a complete meal. Here are a few ideas:

1. Side Salad: A simple mixed green salad with a light vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the gnocchi.
2. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread or a warm baguette can be perfect for soaking up any leftover sauce on your plate.
3. White Wine: A crisp white wine, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, complements the flavors beautifully.
4. Roasted Vegetables: Consider adding a side of roasted vegetables to bring more color and nutrition to your meal.

Final Thoughts

This Easy Sheet Pan Pesto Gnocchi with Burst Cherry Tomatoes, Chicken Sausage, and Burrata is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that combines convenience, flavor, and satisfaction. Its ease of preparation makes it ideal for busy weeknights, while its rich flavors make it perfect for special occasions or gatherings with friends and family.

So roll up your sleeves, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a delightful dinner that requires minimal effort but delivers maximum taste! Whether you’re cooking for one or feeding a crowd, this dish is sure to impress and satisfy everyone at the table. Bon appétit!