Gnocchi with Italian Sausage and Sage Brown Butter

This delightful dish combines pillowy gnocchi with savory Italian sausage, all tossed in a fragrant sage brown butter sauce. The traditional elements of gnocchi and sausage are enhanced by the nutty flavor of browned butter and the aromatic freshness of sage, creating a comforting yet elevated meal. Perfect for those looking for a hearty dinner option that balances classic Italian flavors with a creative twist.

Ingredients:

• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice)
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 10 fresh sage leaves
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. In a large pot of boiling salted water, cook the gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the top. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet over medium heat, add the Italian sausage. Cook until browned and cooked through, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Remove the sausage from the skillet and set aside, leaving any drippings in the pan.
3. In the same skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sage leaves and cook until the butter is golden brown and the sage is crispy, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the cooked gnocchi to the skillet, tossing gently to coat in the brown butter. Add the cooked sausage back to the skillet and mix well. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.