This creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup is warm and filling! The tasty sausage and soft gnocchi mix perfectly in a rich, comforting broth that makes every bite delightful.
Honestly, there’s nothing like a big bowl of this soup on a chilly evening. I love topping it with some cheese and fresh herbs to make it even tastier. Yum! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: Use mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey or chicken sausage works just as well!
Heavy Cream: This adds richness to the soup. You can replace it with half-and-half for a lighter choice or use coconut milk for a dairy-free alternative.
Gnocchi: Potato gnocchi is traditional but if you’re in a hurry, you could use shelf-stable gnocchi or even pasta shapes like small shells or ditalini.
Fresh Spinach: Baby spinach is great for its soft texture. You can swap it for kale or Swiss chard, just cook them a bit longer until tender.
How Do You Cook the Gnocchi Without Overcooking It?
Cooking gnocchi can be tricky, but it’s simple once you know the steps. Ideally, you’ll want them to float in the soup to ensure they’re done without being mushy. Here’s how:
- Add gnocchi to the soup only when it’s boiling; this keeps them from becoming too soft.
- Cook them according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes. They are done when they float to the top!
- Remove from heat right after they float for perfect texture.
Remember, overcooked gnocchi can turn mushy, so timing is key!
Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For The Soup Base:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
For The Creamy Texture:
- 1 cup heavy cream
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
For Additional Ingredients:
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh basil or parsley, for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup can be prepared in about 30 minutes! You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and another 20 minutes cooking. Perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Drain any excess grease from the pot.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the chopped onion to the pot with the sausage. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until the onion is softened. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Combine the Base Ingredients:
Pour the chicken broth into the pot along with the undrained diced tomatoes. Stir everything together to combine well.
4. Season and Boil:
Next, add the dried Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes (if you’re using them), and season with salt and pepper to taste. Bring your soup to a gentle boil.
5. Add the Gnocchi:
Once boiling, toss in the gnocchi. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the top and are tender.
6. Add Cream and Spinach:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Let it simmer for 2-3 more minutes until the spinach is wilted and the soup is heated through.
7. Finish with Cheese:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and well blended into the soup. Give it a taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if necessary.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with fresh basil or parsley if desired. Enjoy it with a slice of crusty bread for the full experience!
Now, dig in and savor each delicious bite of your creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen gnocchi, just add them directly to the pot without thawing. They may need an additional minute or two to cook, so ensure they’re tender and floating before serving.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze the soup, but be aware that the texture of the gnocchi may change once thawed.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. Just be sure to adjust the seasoning, as coconut milk can add a subtly sweet flavor to the soup.
What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a simple side salad to balance out the richness. You could also serve it over cooked rice or pasta for a heartier meal.
