Gnocchi with Sausage in Vodka Sauce

Ingredients and Weight:

• 2 pounds russet potatoes, peeled and quartered
• 1 large egg, beaten
• 2 cups all-purpose flour, plus more for dusting
• 1 pound sweet Italian sausage, casings removed
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup vodka
• 1 (28-ounce) can crushed tomatoes
• 1 (15-ounce) can tomato sauce
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste

Preparation Time:

• 30 minutes

Cooking Time:

• 60 minutes

Difficulty Level:

• 2 (Easy)

Preparation Method Steps:

1. Place the potatoes in a large pot of cold water. Bring to a boil and cook until the potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes. Drain the potatoes and return them to the pot.
2. Mash the potatoes until smooth. Stir in the egg and 1 cup of flour. Season with salt and pepper.
3. On a lightly floured surface, divide the dough into 8 equal pieces. Roll each piece into a long, thin rope. Cut the ropes into 1-inch pieces.
4. In a large skillet, brown the sausage over medium heat. Drain off any excess grease.
5. Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and cook until softened.
6. Stir in the vodka and cook for 1 minute.
7. Add the crushed tomatoes, tomato sauce, and heavy cream. Bring to a simmer and cook for 20 minutes.
8. Season the sauce with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Add the gnocchi to the sauce and cook for 5 minutes, or until the gnocchi are cooked through.
10. Stir in the basil and Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.

Nutritional Information:

(Per serving)

• Calories: 450
• Fat: 15 grams
• Saturated Fat: 6 grams
• Cholesterol: 80 milligrams
• Sodium: 900 milligrams
• Carbohydrates: 60 grams
• Protein: 25 grams

Dish Characteristics:

• Creamy and flavorful vodka sauce
• Tender and pillowy gnocchi
• Hearty and comforting
• Perfect for a special occasion or a weeknight dinner

User Comments:

• "This dish is absolutely delicious! The sauce is rich and flavorful, and the gnocchi are cooked to perfection."
• "I love the combination of sausage and vodka in this dish. It's a unique and satisfying flavor."
• "This is a great recipe for a party or a potluck. It's easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser."

Special Precautions and Tips:

• Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi. They should be cooked through but still tender.
• If you don't have vodka on hand, you can substitute white wine or chicken broth.
• This dish can be made ahead of time and reheated when you're ready to serve.