Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce
Hey friend, get ready for a dish that’s bursting with bold flavors and cozy vibes all at once! Imagine pillowy gnocchi, perfectly tender, dancing with spicy, smoky chorizo, all bathed in a luscious, creamy harissa sauce that just wraps around every bite like a warm hug. The aroma alone will have you drooling before the first forkful hits your mouth. Trust me, you’re going to love this one—it’s the kind of recipe that feels fancy but comes together so quickly, it’s basically magic. Whether it’s a weeknight win or a weekend treat, this dish is a total game-changer.
Why You’ll Love Spicy Harissa Gnocchi with Sizzling Chorizo Bliss
This recipe isn’t just about cooking—it’s about creating joy and flavor-packed memories. Perfect for a quick dinner or impressing your friends with minimal fuss, here’s why it’ll become your new favorite:
Versatile: From busy nights to casual gatherings, it fits every occasion like a charm.
Budget-Friendly: Made with simple ingredients you probably have in your pantry—no hunting down hard-to-find items.
Quick and Easy: Straightforward, stress-free steps that even kitchen newbies will adore.
Customizable: Love it hotter? Add extra harissa or chili flakes. Prefer mild? Dial it down easily.
Crowd-Pleasing: Smoky, spicy, creamy—this trifecta wins hearts across ages.

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Ingredients in Spicy Harissa Gnocchi with Sizzling Chorizo Bliss
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy potato gnocchi that soak up the sauce beautifully.
Chorizo: Smoky, spicy, and packed with flavor, it’s the soul of this dish.
Harissa Paste: This North African chili paste adds a smoky heat and depth like no other.
Cream: Brings that velvety richness that balances the spice perfectly.
Garlic: Aromatic and essential for layering flavor.
Onion: Adds sweetness and texture.
Olive Oil: For sautéing and bringing everything together.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley or cilantro for a fresh, vibrant finish.
Salt & Pepper: To taste, of course!
Instructions
Let’s dive into the steps to create this flavorful masterpiece:
Preheat Your Pan
Warm a large skillet over medium heat to get ready for the sizzle and magic.
Cook the Chorizo
Add the chorizo, breaking it up as it browns. Let it crisp slightly—this step unlocks so much smoky goodness.
Sauté the Aromatics
Toss in the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until soft and fragrant, stirring often to keep those flavors blooming.
Add the Harissa
Stir in the harissa paste, letting it toast for a minute so the spices really wake up.
Creamy Sauce Time
Pour in the cream, stirring well to combine and create that luscious sauce that coats every gnocchi perfectly.
Cook the Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi directly to the sauce. Stir gently and cook until they puff up and soak in the spicy creaminess.
Season & Garnish
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Sprinkle fresh herbs on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Serve and Enjoy
Plate it up, maybe add a drizzle of olive oil or a sprinkle of extra herbs, and get ready for some serious comfort food bliss.
How to Serve Spicy Harissa Gnocchi with Sizzling Chorizo Bliss
This dish is a superstar on its own, but here’s how to take it next level:
Fresh Salads: A crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette adds brightness.
Crusty Bread: Warm, crusty bread is perfect for mopping up every last bit of sauce.
Creamy Accents: A dollop of sour cream or Greek yogurt tones down the heat and adds creaminess.
Vegetable Sides: Roasted or sautéed veggies like zucchini or bell peppers make a colorful, nutritious pairing.
As a Standalone: Rich and filling enough to be a solo star—garnish with herbs for extra flair.
Additional Tips
Prep Ahead: Chop your veggies and measure your ingredients before you start for smoother cooking.
Spice It Up: Add chili flakes or smoked paprika for more punch.
Dietary Adjustments: Swap cream for coconut cream to make it dairy-free.
Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently.
Double the Batch: This recipe freezes well, so make extra for busy nights!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I use a different type of sausage?
A1: Yes! Italian sausage or even spicy turkey sausage works well, though chorizo has that signature smoky kick.
Q2: Can I make this vegetarian?
A2: Absolutely! Use spicy roasted vegetables or plant-based sausage alternatives and swap cream for a coconut or cashew cream.
Q3: Is fresh or frozen gnocchi better?
A3: Both work great! Fresh gnocchi cooks quickly, but frozen works fine—just add a minute or two to cooking time.
Q4: How spicy is the dish?
A4: It has a gentle heat from the harissa, but you can adjust by adding more or less paste or chili flakes.
Q5: Can I prepare this in advance?
A5: Yes, cook the sauce and chorizo ahead, then add gnocchi just before serving for best texture.
Q6: What can I substitute for cream?
A6: Coconut cream or cashew cream are excellent dairy-free options.
Q7: How do I store leftovers?
A7: Keep in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave.
Q8: Can I freeze this dish?
A8: Yes, freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight and reheat well.
Q9: What sides complement this dish best?
A9: A fresh salad, roasted veggies, or crusty bread are all wonderful companions.
Q10: What cookware is ideal?
A10: A large skillet or sauté pan with a lid is perfect for cooking and simmering the sauce evenly.
Conclusion
There you have it—your new go-to for a flavor-packed, fuss-free dinner that feels special every time. Give this Spicy Harissa Gnocchi with Sizzling Chorizo Bliss a whirl, and I promise it’ll become a staple in your kitchen. Enjoy every creamy, spicy bite!
Print
Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Sautéing and simmering
- Cuisine: Fusion
- Diet: Low Lactose
Description
A vibrant and comforting dish featuring tender gnocchi tossed with spicy chorizo and a creamy, flavorful harissa coconut sauce. Finished with fresh spinach and cherry tomatoes, this recipe is a perfect blend of heat and creaminess.
Ingredients
- 1 tsp sunflower oil
- 150 g (5.3 oz) diced chorizo (ready-chopped Spanish chorizo recommended)
- 1 small onion, peeled and finely diced
- 1 red bell pepper, deseeded and sliced
- 2 cloves garlic, peeled and minced
- ¼ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 ½ tbsp harissa paste
- 1 tbsp tomato puree (tomato paste for US)
- 200 ml (7 fl oz) full-fat coconut milk
- 150 g (5.3 oz) cherry (grape) tomatoes, halved
- 500 g (17.6 oz) fresh gnocchi
- 60 g (2 packed cups) baby spinach
- Chili flakes, to serve
- Black pepper, to serve
- Freshly chopped parsley, to serve
Instructions
- Heat sunflower oil in a large pan over medium heat. Add chorizo and cook until it starts to release its oil, about 3–4 minutes.
- Add onion, red bell pepper, and garlic; sauté until softened, about 5 minutes.
- Stir in salt, black pepper, harissa paste, and tomato puree. Cook for 1–2 minutes to combine flavors.
- Pour in coconut milk, stir well, and simmer gently for 5 minutes.
- Meanwhile, cook gnocchi according to package instructions until they float to the surface. Drain and add to the pan.
- Add cherry tomatoes and baby spinach; cook until spinach wilts and tomatoes soften, about 2–3 minutes.
- Toss everything gently to coat in sauce.
- Serve topped with chili flakes, black pepper, and freshly chopped parsley.
Notes
- Use fresh gnocchi for best texture, but frozen can be used as well.
- Adjust harissa paste to taste depending on your spice preference.
- Full-fat coconut milk adds richness and creaminess but light coconut milk can be used for a lighter option.
- Serve immediately for the best flavor and texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 700mg
- Fat: 22g
- Saturated Fat: 18g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 4g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 30mg