This Chicken Sausage Gnocchi Hotpot reimagines classic comfort food with a lighter, vibrant flair. Tender chicken sausages mingle with softened leeks in a creamy, thyme-scented sauce that’s both nourishing and deeply satisfying.

The rich sauce, enhanced by grain mustard and crème fraîche, blankets tender gnocchi and sweet peas, while a golden layer of Gruyère or Parmesan adds irresistible savory notes and a crisp finish.

Easy to prepare and perfect for a cozy meal, this hotpot offers hearty flavors without heaviness—ideal for anyone craving warmth and comfort with a fresh twist.

Chicken Sausage Gnocchi Hotpot Ingredients

Savory chicken sausages bring hearty, flavorful protein that forms the dish’s robust foundation. Pillowy gnocchi adds tender, comforting texture, perfectly absorbing the creamy sauce.

Fresh leeks contribute subtle sweetness and a gentle bite, balancing richness. The thyme-infused sauce, enriched with grain mustard and crème fraîche, creates a fragrant, velvety coating that ties all elements together.

Frozen peas provide bursts of freshness and color, while a sprinkle of Gruyère or Parmesan cheese crowns the hotpot with a golden, savory crust.

Chicken Sausage Gnocchi Hotpot: Tips, Serving Suggestions & FAQ

Recipe Tips

Choose Quality Sausages: The flavor of your hotpot hinges on the sausages. Opt for high-quality chicken sausages with herbs or mild spices to enhance the dish’s savory depth without overpowering the subtle thyme and mustard sauce.
Sear for Flavor: Browning the sausage pieces until nicely caramelized adds a rich, smoky note that elevates the overall taste. Don’t rush this step; a good sear locks in juices and builds a robust base for your hotpot.
Gnocchi Handling: For best texture, scatter the gnocchi over the sauce straight from the package without pre-cooking. Baking allows them to absorb flavors while crisping beautifully on top. If using fresh gnocchi, reduce baking time slightly to avoid overcooking.

What to Serve with Chicken Sausage Gnocchi Hotpot

Simple Green Salad: A crisp mixed leaf salad with a light lemon vinaigrette cuts through the richness of the creamy hotpot, adding freshness and a delicate tang. Consider arugula, baby spinach, or watercress for a peppery contrast.
Garlic Roasted Vegetables: Roasted carrots, parsnips, or Brussels sprouts with garlic and olive oil complement the hearty flavors and add texture variety. Their caramelized edges echo the hotpot’s golden gnocchi crust, making the meal feel balanced and complete.
Crusty Artisan Bread: A warm, crusty baguette or sourdough loaf is perfect for mopping up the creamy sauce. The bread’s chewy crumb and crunchy crust provide satisfying contrast, making every bite indulgent and comforting.

FAQ

Q1: Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes. Substitute chicken sausages with plant-based sausages or hearty vegetables like mushrooms and roasted butternut squash to maintain texture and flavor balance.

Q2: Can I prepare this recipe ahead of time?
Absolutely. Prepare through the leek-softening step, then refrigerate. When ready to serve, add the sauce, gnocchi, and cheese, then bake with extra time to ensure thorough cooking.

Q3: What can I use if I don’t have crème fraîche?
You can substitute crème fraîche with sour cream or Greek yogurt. Add it at the end of the sauce preparation to prevent curdling and preserve creaminess.

Q4: Is it possible to freeze leftovers?
Yes, but for best results, freeze before baking. Reheat thoroughly in the oven, adding a little extra cooking time to ensure the dish is heated evenly and the gnocchi regain their texture.

This Chicken Sausage Gnocchi Hotpot strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and comfort, making it a versatile favorite for any season. With these tips and serving ideas, it’s ready to become a regular at your table.

Chicken Sausage Gnocchi Hotpot

Transform comfort food with this lighter twist on a classic hotpot. This recipe combines savory chicken sausages with tender leeks and a creamy thyme-infused sauce, creating a dish that’s both wholesome and satisfying.

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Prep Time 20

Cook Time 40

Total Time 1

Servings: 6 People

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: American

Ingredients Method

Ingredients

500 g gnocchi
340 g chicken sausages or chipolatas e.g., Heck Chicken Italia
150 g frozen peas
2 leeks cleaned, trimmed, and thickly sliced
450 ml chicken stock prepared from a stock cube or stockpot
60 g finely grated Gruyère Cheddar, or Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp half-fat crème fraîche
2 tbsp fresh thyme finely chopped (or 2 tsp dried thyme)
1 tbsp grain mustard
1 tbsp oil
1 tbsp butter
20 g butter
20 g plain flour

Method

Prepare the Oven
Preheat the oven to 200°C (fan 180°C, gas mark 6).
Cook the Sausages
Warm the oil in a large frying pan over high heat. Using kitchen scissors, cut the chicken sausages into bite-sized segments (approximately 4–5 pieces per sausage). Brown them in the hot oil for around 5 minutes until they are golden and cooked through. Once done, transfer the sausage pieces into a 23 cm ovenproof baking dish.
Soften the Leeks
In the same pan, melt 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the sliced leeks, followed by 50 ml of the prepared chicken stock and a small amount of seasoning. Cover the pan with a lid and allow the leeks to cook gently over medium heat for 5–7 minutes, until tender.
Prepare the Sauce
In a separate saucepan, melt the remaining 20 g of butter over medium heat. Stir in the flour and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly to form a roux. Gradually whisk in the remaining chicken stock, ensuring a smooth, lump-free mixture. Incorporate the grain mustard, chopped thyme, and crème fraîche. Let the sauce simmer for 2 minutes, then fold in the frozen peas and softened leeks. Adjust seasoning to taste.
Assemble the Dish
Pour the prepared sauce into the baking dish over the browned sausages, ensuring even distribution. Stir gently to combine. Arrange the gnocchi across the surface straight from the package, then top with the grated cheese.
Bake to Perfection
Place the dish on a baking tray and transfer it to the preheated oven. Bake for 25 minutes, or until the gnocchi are crisped and golden on top.
Optional Preparation Tip
This dish can be partially prepared in advance by completing steps up to the end of the leek cooking (Step 5). Store covered in the refrigerator and allow an extra 5–10 minutes baking time if cooking from chilled.

Chicken Sausage Gnocchi Hotpot