Description
Imagine soft, pillowy gnocchi swimming in a spicy, creamy sauce that’s got a serious kick — thanks to harissa, that North African chili paste that brings all the heat and flavor. Now add crispy, smoky chorizo to the mix, and you’ve got yourself a dinner that’s bold, comforting, and just a little bit addictive. This dish hits that perfect balance between creamy and spicy, with the chorizo’s savory goodness cutting through beautifully. It’s perfect for when you want something impressive but totally doable on a weeknight.
Ingredients
1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought is fine, fresh if you can find it)
8 oz spicy chorizo, sliced or crumbled
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tbsp harissa paste (adjust to taste)
1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter version)
1 tbsp olive oil
Salt + pepper to taste
Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Optional: a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten it all up
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Gnocchi
Bring a big pot of salted water to a boil. Toss in gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface (about 2-3 minutes). Drain and set aside.
Step 2: Sizzle the Chorizo
While gnocchi cooks, heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chorizo and cook until it’s nicely browned and crispy around the edges. Remove from pan and set aside — leave the rendered fat in the pan.
Step 3: Build the Sauce
In the same pan, add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Add garlic and cook another minute until fragrant. Stir in the harissa paste and cook for 1 minute to release those spicy aromas.
Step 4: Cream It Up
Pour in the cream, stirring constantly to combine with the harissa mixture. Let it simmer gently for 3-4 minutes until the sauce thickens slightly.
Step 5: Bring It All Together
Add gnocchi and cooked chorizo back into the skillet. Toss gently to coat everything evenly in that creamy, spicy sauce. Season with salt, pepper, and if you like, a squeeze of lemon juice to cut through the richness.
Step 6: Serve and Impress
Plate it up and sprinkle fresh parsley or cilantro on top. Serve immediately and prepare for some serious compliments.
Notes
Pair it with a simple green salad or roasted veggies to keep things fresh. A crusty baguette or garlic bread on the side is great for soaking up every last bit of that sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: ~550 kcal
- Fat: ~35g
- Carbohydrates: ~40g
- Protein: ~20g