Italian Sheet Pan Chicken Sausage and Gnocchi

• •1 lb (450g) Pre-cooked Italian chicken sausage
• •17.6 oz (500g) package Shelf-stable potato gnocchi
• •1 large Red bell pepper
• •1 large Yellow bell pepper
• •1 medium Red onion
• •1 medium Zucchini
• •1 pint (approx. 2 cups) Cherry or grape tomatoes
• •3 tbsp Olive oil
• •1.5 tsp Italian seasoning
• •1 tsp Garlic powder
• •0.8 tsp Salt
• •0.5 tsp Black pepper
• •0.3 tsp Red pepper flakes (optional)
• •2 tbsp Fresh parsley or basil, chopped
• •2 tbsp Grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. 1

   Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a large, rimmed baking sheet with parchment paper for easier cleanup.

2. 2

   Slice the chicken sausage into ½-inch thick rounds. Core and slice the bell peppers into 1-inch pieces. Halve and chop the red onion into ½-inch wedges. Trim and chop the zucchini into ½-inch thick half-moons. Leave the cherry tomatoes whole.

3. 3

   On the prepared baking sheet, combine the sliced chicken sausage, gnocchi (do not boil first), bell peppers, red onion, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes. Drizzle with olive oil.

4. 4

   Sprinkle the Italian seasoning, garlic powder, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) evenly over all the ingredients. Toss gently with your hands or a large spatula until everything is well coated.

5. 5

   Spread the mixture into an even layer on the baking sheet. Ensure not to overcrowd the pan; if necessary, use two baking sheets to allow for proper roasting and browning.

6. 6

   Roast for 25-30 minutes, stirring gently halfway through, until the vegetables are tender-crisp, the sausage is lightly browned, and the gnocchi is puffy and slightly crispy on the outside.

7. 7

   Remove from the oven. Garnish with fresh chopped parsley or basil and a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese before serving immediately.

Chef's Tips

• 💡**Don't Overcrowd the Pan:** For crispy gnocchi and properly roasted vegetables, ensure ingredients are in a single layer. If your pan is too small, divide the mixture between two baking sheets.
• 💡**Customize Your Veggies:** Feel free to substitute or add other quick-cooking vegetables like broccoli florets, asparagus, or mushrooms. Adjust roasting time as needed for different vegetables.
• 💡**For Extra Crispy Gnocchi:** After stirring halfway through cooking, try to arrange the gnocchi so that more of their surface area is directly touching the hot baking sheet.
• 💡**Make Ahead Prep:** You can chop all the vegetables and slice the sausage a day in advance and store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to save time on busy weeknights.