Creamy Loaded Potato Gnocchi Recipe with Kielbasa

Imagine creamy, pillowy potato gnocchi coated in a velvety sauce, studded with smoky kielbasa, tender veggies, and melty cheese. The first time I made this dish, the aroma alone had everyone in the house wandering into the kitchen to see what was cooking. It’s the kind of meal that feels like a warm hug—comforting, indulgent, and so satisfying. This Creamy Loaded Potato Gnocchi with Kielbasa is an absolute game-changer when you’re looking for something hearty that’s also ridiculously easy to whip up.

Years ago, I stumbled upon gnocchi at a local Italian market. I had no idea what to do with those little potato pillows, but I was determined to make them shine. Fast forward to today, and this recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, perfect for cozy dinners or impressing friends at a casual get-together. My family can’t get enough of it—honestly, I always have to make double because someone inevitably wants seconds!

This dish combines the smoky savoriness of kielbasa, the creamy richness of a loaded potato-style sauce, and the soft, chewy texture of gnocchi. It’s a recipe I’ve tested time and time again, tweaking the seasonings and ingredients until I found the perfect balance. Bookmark this one, friends—you’re going to want to make it again and again!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick & Easy: This dish comes together in less than 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• One-Pot Wonder: No need for multiple pots and pans—fewer dishes, more time to savor the deliciousness.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy sauce, smoky kielbasa, and tender gnocchi create a flavor-packed, belly-warming experience.
• Simple Ingredients: All you need are pantry staples and a few fresh items—no fancy grocery trips required.
• Customizable: Add in your favorite veggies or swap the protein for a vegetarian option—this recipe is endlessly adaptable.

What sets this recipe apart is the way the flavors come together. The creaminess of the sauce, the subtle hints of garlic, and the smoky, savory bite of kielbasa—it’s a combination that’ll make you close your eyes and savor every bite. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or just treating yourself to something special, this recipe is the kind of comforting, delicious meal you’ll want to share with everyone.

What Ingredients You Will Need

This recipe uses simple, wholesome ingredients to bring bold flavors to your table. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Potato Gnocchi: 16 ounces (450g) store-bought or homemade gnocchi. Look for fresh or shelf-stable options at your local grocery store.
• Kielbasa: 12 ounces (340g) smoked kielbasa, sliced into bite-sized pieces. Adds that irresistible smoky flavor.
• Unsalted Butter: 2 tablespoons (28g), for sautéing and adding richness.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons (15g), for thickening the sauce.
• Chicken Broth: 1 cup (240ml), for depth of flavor. Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup (240ml), to create a luscious, creamy sauce.
• Cheddar Cheese: 1 cup (100g) shredded, for topping. Use sharp cheddar for bold flavor.
• Garlic: 2 cloves, minced, for a subtle aromatic kick.
• Onion: 1 medium, diced, for sweetness and texture.
• Frozen Peas: 1 cup (150g), thawed. Adds color and a pop of sweetness.
• Salt & Pepper: To taste. Adjust based on your seasoning preferences.
• Chopped Parsley: Optional, for garnish.

These ingredients are easy to find and super versatile. If you’re missing something, don’t worry—there are plenty of substitutions and adaptations you can try!

Equipment Needed

You don’t need a fancy kitchen to make this recipe. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Large Skillet: A deep skillet or sauté pan works best for cooking everything in one pan.
• Wooden Spoon: Great for stirring the gnocchi and sauce without scratching your pan.
• Chef’s Knife: For slicing the kielbasa and chopping veggies.
• Cutting Board: A sturdy surface for prepping your ingredients.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: To get the proportions just right.

If you don’t have a skillet, you can use a large pot instead. I’ve even made this recipe in a Dutch oven when I wanted to keep it warm for a little while longer.

Preparation Method

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Stir in the sliced kielbasa and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned and fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
5. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Lower the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Add the gnocchi to the skillet and let it cook in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
8. Mix in the thawed peas and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts.
9. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust as needed.
10. Transfer the gnocchi to serving bowls and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese and chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Don’t overcrowd the pan: If your skillet feels too small, cook the kielbasa in batches to get the best browning.
• Keep stirring: The sauce thickens quickly, so don’t step away for too long or it might stick to the pan.
• Taste as you go: Season the sauce gradually and taste before serving to make sure you’re happy with the flavor.
• Use freshly grated cheese: Pre-shredded cheese often contains anti-caking agents that can affect the texture of the sauce.
• Cook the gnocchi in the sauce: This allows them to absorb all the flavors and become even more delicious.

Variations & Adaptations

If you’re feeling adventurous or need to make some swaps, here are a few ideas:

• Vegetarian Option: Swap the kielbasa for sautéed mushrooms or roasted chickpeas for a plant-based twist.
• Seasonal Twist: Use roasted butternut squash or caramelized Brussels sprouts instead of peas for a fall-inspired version.
• Spicy Kick: Add crushed red pepper flakes or drizzle with hot sauce for some heat.
• Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi and substitute the flour with cornstarch or a gluten-free flour blend.

Feel free to experiment—I once swapped the kielbasa for Italian sausage, and it was a hit!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

This Creamy Loaded Potato Gnocchi with Kielbasa is best served hot, straight from the skillet. Here are some serving ideas:

• Serving Temperature: Serve warm with a sprinkle of parsley for a fresh pop of color.
• Perfect Pairings: Pair with a crisp green salad or a side of garlic bread for a complete meal.
• Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or microwave in short intervals, stirring occasionally.

The sauce thickens as it cools, but adding a splash of cream or broth when reheating will bring it back to life.

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This recipe is a hearty and satisfying dish. Here’s a rough nutritional breakdown per serving:

• Calories: Approximately 450-500
• Protein: About 20g from the kielbasa and cheese
• Carbohydrates: Around 40g from the gnocchi
• Fat: Roughly 25g from the cream and butter

Loaded with protein and carbs, it’s a great option for a filling meal. If you need to adjust for dietary preferences, there are plenty of substitutions to suit your needs.

Conclusion

This Creamy Loaded Potato Gnocchi with Kielbasa isn’t just a recipe—it’s a little slice of comfort that you’ll want to make again and again. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing dish for friends and family, this recipe has you covered.

Creamy Loaded Potato Gnocchi Recipe with Kielbasa

Print Recipe

Creamy, pillowy potato gnocchi coated in a velvety sauce with smoky kielbasa, tender veggies, and melty cheese. A comforting and indulgent dish perfect for cozy dinners.

• Author: Sarah
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Main Course
• Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 16 ounces (450g) potato gnocchi
• 12 ounces (340g) smoked kielbasa, sliced
• 2 tablespoons (28g) unsalted butter
• 2 tablespoons (15g) all-purpose flour
• 1 cup (240ml) chicken broth
• 1 cup (240ml) heavy cream
• 1 cup (100g) shredded cheddar cheese
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 1 cup (150g) frozen peas, thawed
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Chopped parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the butter and let it melt. Toss in the diced onion and sauté for 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Stir in the sliced kielbasa and cook for 4-5 minutes until browned and fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the mixture and stir well to coat. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
5. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps from forming. Let the mixture simmer for 3-4 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Lower the heat and add the heavy cream. Stir until the sauce is smooth and creamy.
7. Add the gnocchi to the skillet and let it cook in the sauce for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until tender.
8. Mix in the thawed peas and half of the cheddar cheese. Stir gently until the cheese melts.
9. Season the dish with salt and pepper to taste. Adjust as needed.
10. Transfer the gnocchi to serving bowls and sprinkle with the remaining cheddar cheese and chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

[‘Don’t overcrowd the pan when browning kielbasa.’, ‘Keep stirring the sauce to prevent sticking.’, ‘Taste and adjust seasoning as you go.’, ‘Use freshly grated cheese for better texture.’, ‘Cook gnocchi in the sauce for enhanced flavor.’]

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 bowl
• Calories: 450500
• Fat: 25
• Carbohydrates: 40
• Protein: 20

Keywords: potato gnocchi, kielbasa, creamy sauce, comfort food, one-pot meal