Gnocchi Sardi al Ragù di Salsiccia Recipe
If you’re looking for a hearty and comforting dish to serve at family gatherings or a cozy dinner, this Gnocchi Sardi al Ragù di Salsiccia is the perfect choice. The robust flavors of Italian sausage combined with the tender, pillowy gnocchi create a satisfying meal that will leave everyone asking for seconds. With its rich tomato-based sauce and aromatic herbs, this dish promises to be a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
Here’s a breakdown of the ingredients you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
| Ingredient | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Gnocchetti Sardi | 400g |
| Passata di Pomodoro (Tomato Sauce) | 700g |
| Salsiccia (Italian Sausage) | 700g |
| Carote (Carrots) | 100g |
| Sedano (Celery) | 70g |
| Cipolle Bianche (White Onions) | 100g |
| Vino Rosso (Red Wine) | 120ml |
| Concentrato di Pomodoro (Tomato Paste) | 1 tbsp |
| Brodo Vegetale (Vegetable Broth) | 1 cup |
| Zucchero (Sugar) | 1 pinch |
| Origano (Oregano) | 1 tsp |
| Sale Fino (Fine Salt) | to taste |
| Pepe Nero (Black Pepper) | to taste |
| Olio Extravergine d’Oliva (Extra Virgin Olive Oil) | to taste |
Instructions
-
Prepare the Sofritto (Sautéed Vegetables):
Start by preparing the soffritto (sautéed vegetables) that will form the base of your ragù. Begin by peeling the onion and cutting it in half. Then, dice the onion, carrots, and celery into small cubes. These vegetables will provide a delicate sweetness to balance the richness of the sausage and tomato sauce. -
Prepare the Sausage:
Remove the casing from the salsiccia (Italian sausage) and crumble it into small pieces. This will allow the sausage to cook evenly and integrate beautifully with the sauce. -
Sauté the Vegetables:
In a large pan, heat a generous drizzle of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the diced vegetables and sauté them for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until they soften and become fragrant. -
Deglaze with Broth:
After the vegetables have softened, deglaze the pan with a splash of hot vegetable broth or boiling water. This will help release any caramelized bits stuck to the bottom of the pan, adding even more flavor to the sauce. -
Cook the Sausage:
Add the crumbled sausage to the pan and season with a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned and fully cooked through. The sausage should break apart as it cooks, forming small bits that will mix seamlessly into the sauce. -
Add the Tomato Sauce and Paste:
Next, pour in the passata di pomodoro (tomato sauce) and add one tablespoon of concentrated tomato paste to enrich the flavor. Stir everything together to combine, making sure the sausage and vegetables are well-coated with the sauce. -
Season and Simmer:
Season the ragù with salt, pepper, and a teaspoon of dried oregano for an aromatic touch. If you prefer a touch of sweetness to balance the acidity of the tomatoes, add a pinch of sugar. Stir everything together and let the ragù simmer on low heat for about 20–30 minutes. This slow simmer will allow the flavors to meld together and deepen. -
Cook the Gnocchi:
While the ragù is simmering, bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Once boiling, add the gnocchi sardi (small Sardinian gnocchi) to the water. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions, typically about 2–3 minutes, or until they float to the surface of the water. -
Combine the Gnocchi and Ragù:
Once the gnocchi are cooked, use a slotted spoon to transfer them directly into the pan with the ragù. Gently toss the gnocchi in the sauce, ensuring they are well coated and heated through. If the sauce needs a little more liquid, feel free to add a splash of the reserved cooking water from the gnocchi. -
Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the gnocchi sardi al ragù di salsiccia hot, garnished with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese and a drizzle of olive oil if desired. This dish is perfect with a side of crusty bread to soak up the rich sauce. Enjoy the comforting flavors of this traditional Italian recipe!
Nutritional Information (per serving)
| Nutrient | Amount per serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 650 kcal |
| Protein | 28g |
| Carbohydrates | 80g |
| Fiber | 4g |
| Sugars | 8g |
| Fat | 25g |
| Saturated Fat | 8g |
| Cholesterol | 50mg |
| Sodium | 600mg |
| Potassium | 700mg |
| Vitamin A | 15% DV |
| Vitamin C | 20% DV |
| Calcium | 10% DV |
| Iron | 20% DV |
Tips for Perfect Gnocchi Sardi al Ragù di Salsiccia:
- For a richer sauce: If you prefer a more robust flavor, let the ragù simmer for longer. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors develop and the sauce thickens.
- Substitute sausage: If you’re not a fan of Italian sausage, you can use ground beef or turkey for a leaner alternative. Adjust the seasoning as necessary to enhance the flavor.
- Make it ahead: The ragù can be made ahead and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months. Reheat the sauce before serving, and add freshly cooked gnocchi for the best texture.
This Gnocchi Sardi al Ragù di Salsiccia is an authentic Italian recipe that brings together the rich flavors of sausage, tomato, and herbs in a comforting dish that is perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re feeding a crowd or enjoying a family dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
