Irresistibly Creamy Chorizo Gnocchi : A Quick & Flavorful Dinner Recipe

If you’re searching for a bold and comforting weeknight dinner, this Creamy Chorizo Gnocchi is your answer. With pillowy gnocchi, spicy chorizo, and a velvety sauce, this dish is fast, hearty, and packed with irresistible flavor. Whether you’re looking for gnocchi recipes easy enough for beginners, or new chorizo recipes for dinner, this one-pan meal checks all the boxes for convenience and satisfaction.

Perfect for busy nights, this recipe comes together in just 25 minutes and delivers restaurant-quality results. It’s ideal for small households, date-night dinners, or when you just want to spice things up midweek.

Let’s dig into this indulgent dish that also doubles as one of the best dinner recipes you’ll ever try.

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Why You’ll Love This Creamy Chorizo Gnocchi

This dish is perfect for anyone looking to make a quick pasta recipe that doesn’t compromise on flavor. The spicy chorizo balances beautifully with creamy, cheesy goodness. You’ll also love how flexible it is — perfect for customizing with what you have on hand.

Whether you’re a fan of hearty gnocchi dishes or on the lookout for creative chorizo recipes that go beyond tacos, this one delivers big.

Ingredients for Creamy Chorizo Gnocchi

Here’s everything you need to make this crowd-pleasing dinner:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 200g (7 oz) spicy chorizo, sliced or crumbled
• 500g (1.1 lb) potato gnocchi
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon chili flakes (optional, for extra heat)
• 200ml (¾ cup + 1 tbsp) double cream
• 40g (⅓ cup) parmesan cheese, grated
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish

Optional Add-ins:

• A handful of spinach
• Cherry tomatoes, halved
• Sautéed mushrooms

These additions can boost the nutritional profile and make it an even more satisfying chorizo dinner recipe.

Kitchen Equipment You’ll Need

• Large non-stick skillet or frying pan
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Sharp knife and chopping board
• Cheese grater
• Measuring cups and spoons

This gnocchi recipe is especially great because it only needs one pan, making cleanup a breeze.

How to Make Creamy Chorizo Gnocchi

Step 1: Sauté the aromatics
In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 3–4 minutes until soft and translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute, stirring to avoid burning.

Step 2: Cook the chorizo
Add the chorizo to the pan. If using sliced, allow the edges to get crispy. If using crumbled, break it apart as it cooks. This should take 4–5 minutes.

Step 3: Add gnocchi
Stir in the gnocchi straight from the package — no need to boil! Let it toast in the chorizo oil for 3–4 minutes. This step adds extra flavor and texture.

Step 4: Pour in cream and season
Add the double cream, smoked paprika, and chili flakes. Stir well to coat everything. Let it simmer for 4–5 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.

Step 5: Add cheese and finish
Sprinkle in the parmesan cheese, season with salt and pepper to taste, and stir until melted and creamy. Garnish with fresh basil or parsley before serving.

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Pro Tips for Success

• Don’t boil your gnocchi beforehand — pan-frying gives it a crisp edge and helps it soak up the flavors.
• Adjust spice levels to your liking by skipping chili flakes or using mild chorizo.
• Add greens like spinach in the last 2 minutes of cooking to wilt without overcooking.

Looking for a side? Try this Cucumber Dill Salad for a fresh and herby contrast.

What Type of Chorizo Should I Use?

This recipe works best with Spanish-style chorizo, which is dry-cured and smoky. If you prefer something softer, Mexican chorizo also works — just be sure to cook it thoroughly and drain excess fat.

Explore more ideas with this 20-Minute Chorizo Tacos recipe for another weeknight favorite.

Variations and Swaps

Looking to switch it up? Here are a few tasty ideas:

• Swap gnocchi for tortellini or penne pasta
• Add sautéed kale or arugula for a peppery green punch
• Use plant-based chorizo for a vegetarian version

You can also serve it with crusty Cottage Cheese Flatbread for a delicious side.

Serving Suggestions

This chorizo gnocchi is rich and filling, so pair it with something fresh:

• Quick Pickled Vegetables
• A light side salad with lemon vinaigrette
• Grilled zucchini or asparagus

Make it the centerpiece of your dinner table — it’s that good!

How to Store and Reheat Leftovers

Storage: Place leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
Reheating: Microwave in 30-second bursts or reheat in a skillet with a splash of cream or milk to loosen the sauce.

This dish also works well for meal prepped lunches — it tastes just as good the next day!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Overcooking the gnocchi: Pan-fry until golden, then simmer. Don’t let it go mushy.
• Using low-fat cream: It may split when heated. Stick with full-fat double cream for best texture.
• Not draining chorizo fat: Too much grease can overwhelm the dish. Drain a little if necessary.

Avoiding these ensures your gnocchi dinner turns out rich, creamy, and perfectly balanced.

Is This a Quick Pasta Recipe for Busy Nights?

Yes! This is one of the most time-saving gnocchi recipes you’ll find. With just 25 minutes from pan to plate, it fits right into your weekly rotation of quick pasta recipes that feel indulgent but are fuss-free.

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FAQs About Creamy Chorizo Gnocchi

Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes! Let it thaw for 5–10 minutes or add directly to the pan and cook a few minutes longer.

Is this recipe spicy?
It depends on the chorizo. Use mild if you’re sensitive to heat and skip the chili flakes.

Can I make this dairy-free?
Use coconut cream and a plant-based cheese alternative, though texture and flavor may vary.

How do I make it for a crowd?
Double the ingredients and use a larger skillet or Dutch oven.

More Gnocchi Recipes and Chorizo Dinners to Try

Love this dish? You’ll definitely enjoy these:

• Creamy Mushroom Pasta – vegetarian and silky smooth
• One Pan Ground Chicken Casserole – another easy weeknight win
• Cheesy Chicken Broccoli Tortellini – great for kids and picky eaters
• Chorizo and Peppers Papas Con Chorizo – another chorizo lover’s must-try

Final Thoughts: Why This Is One of the Best Dinner Recipes Ever

With spicy sausage, pillowy gnocchi, and creamy, cheesy goodness, this Creamy Chorizo Gnocchi is what cozy weeknight dreams are made of. It’s rich, satisfying, and full of flavor, making it a standout in your collection of chorizo dinner recipes.

Ready to impress without the stress? Make this once and it’ll earn a permanent place on your table.

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