If you’re craving a cozy yet exciting meal, Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce is just what you need. This dish brings together soft, pillowy gnocchi with the smoky spice of chorizo, all wrapped in a luxuriously creamy, mildly spicy harissa sauce that elevates every bite. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a casual weekend feast, this recipe balances rich flavors with surprising warmth that makes it impossible not to savor every forkful.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links.If you click and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

Air Fryer Paper Liners

Buy Now →

Vegetable Chopper

Buy Now →

Magic Bullet Blender

Buy Now →

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Comfort food with a twist: Combining classic gnocchi with bold chorizo and harissa makes this dish satisfyingly familiar but exciting.
Quick and fuss-free: Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s perfect for busy days when you want something delicious fast.
Flavor-packed but balanced: The creamy harissa sauce adds heat with a smooth finish, complementing the savory chorizo beautifully.
One-pan wonder: Minimal cleanup with most ingredients cooked in a single skillet, making dinner straightforward and enjoyable.
Customizable spice levels: Adjust the harissa or add extra seasonings for a milder or spicier experience tailored to your taste.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple but essential ingredients will ensure your Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce turns out delicious every time. Each component plays a key role in building layers of flavor, texture, and vibrant color.

Gnocchi: Choose store-bought or homemade for tender, pillowy bites that soak up the sauce perfectly.
Chorizo sausage: Adds smoky, spicy depth to the dish, with natural fat that enhances flavor.
Harissa paste: The star seasoning providing warm, complex heat from chili peppers and spices.
Heavy cream or crème fraîche: Creates the rich, luscious sauce that balances the heat and ties everything together.
Garlic and onion: Foundation aromatics that boost savory notes in the sauce.
Olive oil: For sautéing the chorizo and vegetables, adding subtle fruitiness and smooth texture.
Fresh herbs (optional): Like parsley or cilantro, to brighten and contrast the richness.
Grated Parmesan: For topping, adding umami and a slightly nutty finish.
Salt and pepper: To taste, enhancing all the flavors naturally.

Variations for Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce

This recipe is wonderfully adaptable, so feel free to experiment with ingredients and spice levels. Whether you want to accommodate dietary preferences or just switch things up, it’s easy to customize while keeping the heart of the dish intact.

Vegetarian option: Swap chorizo for smoked paprika-seasoned mushrooms or plant-based sausage for a meat-free version.
Dairy-free alternative: Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of heavy cream for a luscious vegan-friendly sauce.
Extra veggies: Add spinach, bell peppers, or zucchini for added color, nutrition, and texture.
Milder sauce: Reduce harissa paste or substitute with roasted red pepper paste for a gentler flavor.
Cheese swaps: Try Pecorino Romano or nutritional yeast for a different cheesy twist.

How to Make Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce

Step 1: Prepare the gnocchi

Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and cook until they float to the surface, about 2-3 minutes. Scoop them out with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving a little pasta water.

Step 2: Cook the chorizo

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add sliced or crumbled chorizo and cook until crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove chorizo and place on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess fat.

Step 3: Sauté aromatics

In the same pan, add chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté until soft and fragrant, about 3 minutes, scraping up any browned bits from the chorizo for extra flavor.

Step 4: Make the harissa cream sauce

Stir in harissa paste and cook briefly, then add heavy cream, stirring well to combine everything smoothly. Let the sauce gently simmer and thicken for a few minutes.

Step 5: Toss in gnocchi and chorizo

Return cooked gnocchi and chorizo to the skillet, tossing carefully to coat in the creamy sauce. If the sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water little by little to reach your desired consistency.

Step 6: Finish and serve

Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with freshly chopped herbs and a generous sprinkle of Parmesan. Serve hot for the best comforting experience.

Pro Tips for Making Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce

Choose good quality chorizo: The flavor and spice intensity of your dish depend greatly on your sausage choice.
Don’t overcook gnocchi: Cook just until they float to keep them light and tender, avoiding mushiness.
Adjust harissa slowly: It’s potent, so add it in increments to control the spice level perfectly.
Use reserved pasta water: It helps the sauce cling to gnocchi beautifully while thinning the sauce if needed.
Fresh herbs at the end: Add parsley or cilantro just before serving for an irresistible fresh aroma.

How to Serve Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce

Garnishes

Top with freshly grated Parmesan, chopped fresh parsley, or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil to add brightness and visual appeal. A sprinkle of toasted pine nuts gives a nice crunch contrast.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside a crisp green salad with lemon vinaigrette to cut through the creaminess or roasted seasonal vegetables for added texture and nutrients.

Creative Ways to Present

Plate the gnocchi in shallow bowls and swirl the harissa cream sauce evenly for a beautiful presentation. Add an edible flower or microgreens on top for a restaurant-worthy look that will wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The sauce may thicken as it chills, so loosen it with a splash of cream or water when reheating.

Freezing

While gnocchi can be frozen cooked or uncooked, preserving the sauce separately is best. Freeze the sauce in a sealed container for up to 2 months, then combine when reheating.

Reheating

Gently reheat on the stove over low heat, stirring often to prevent sticking. Adding a small amount of cream or water helps revive the sauce’s silky texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh homemade gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Fresh gnocchi works wonderfully and tends to be even more tender, soaking up the sauce beautifully without falling apart.

How spicy is the harissa sauce in this dish?

The heat depends on the harissa paste you choose; it typically provides warm, moderate spiciness, but you can adjust the amount based on your heat preference.

Is there a vegetarian alternative to chorizo here?

Yes, you can substitute chorizo with smoked paprika-seasoned mushrooms or plant-based sausage for similar smoky flavors without meat.

Can I make this recipe dairy-free?

Definitely! Replace heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream to maintain the richness without dairy.

What wine pairs well with Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce?

A medium-bodied red like a Grenache or a fruity Tempranillo complements the smoky chorizo and spicy harissa notes beautifully.

Final Thoughts

Gnocchi with Chorizo and Creamy Harissa Sauce is a delightful dish that brings together warmth, creaminess, and spice in every bite. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or treating yourself, this recipe guarantees satisfaction with minimal effort but maximum flavor. Give it a try and watch this become a new favorite in your dinner rotation!