This Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is a cozy bowl of goodness! It combines juicy sausage, soft gnocchi, and yummy veggies in a tasty broth that warms you right up.
You won’t believe how quickly this soup comes together! Perfect for a chilly night when you want something hearty. I like to enjoy it with some crusty bread to soak up all that deliciousness. 🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the soup, giving it a rich and savory flavor. You can switch it up with turkey sausage for a leaner option or use plant-based sausage for a vegetarian version. I find mild sausage works well for a balanced taste.
Gnocchi: I love using store-bought potato gnocchi for convenience, but homemade gnocchi is a delightful touch if you have the time! If you can’t find gnocchi, try using small pasta shapes like tortellini or even mini shells as a substitute.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds great color and nutrients. If you don’t have any, kale is a nice alternative, or frozen spinach works too—just make sure to thaw and squeeze out excess water.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter soup, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free option. Just keep in mind that this may change the flavor a bit, but it still adds creaminess!
How Do I Perfectly Cook Gnocchi?
Cooking gnocchi is super straightforward, but it’s essential not to overcook them. Here’s how to achieve that perfect bite:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a gentle boil. Make sure it’s bubbling nicely!
- Add the gnocchi and stir gently to prevent sticking. You’ll know they are ready when they float to the top, which usually takes 2-3 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to remove the gnocchi and transfer them directly to the soup. This will help keep them from getting mushy. Enjoy!
Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes (optional, drained or undrained based on preference)
- 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp dried basil
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)
- Fresh parsley or thyme for garnish (optional)
Time Needed
This delicious Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, so you’ll have a warm, hearty meal ready in just 30 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cook 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 wooden spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the sausage is browned and fully cooked. It shouldn’t be pink inside!
2. Sauté the Veggies
Now, toss in the diced onion and let it cook until it’s softened and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for another 30 seconds, just until it smells amazing!
3. Add the Broth
Pour in the chicken broth and one cup of water while scraping up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot. If you’re using diced tomatoes, add them now. Bring this mixture to a gentle boil.
4. Season the Soup
Next, add the dried oregano, dried basil, and a pinch of salt and pepper to your liking. Reduce the heat to a simmer and allow it to cook for about 10 minutes, letting all those flavors mingle.
5. Cook the Gnocchi
Now it’s time for the gnocchi! Stir in the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions—usually about 2-3 minutes—until they start floating to the surface and become tender.
6. Add Spinach
Lower the heat and gently stir in the fresh spinach leaves. Cook for about 2 minutes, just until the spinach is wilted and bright green.
7. Make it Creamy
Pour in the heavy cream and add the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the soup is lovely and creamy. Taste and add more salt and pepper if you think it needs it!
8. Serve and Enjoy
Finally, ladle your delicious soup into bowls, and feel free to garnish with more Parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh parsley or thyme. Serve it warm and enjoy every cozy bite with a slice of crusty bread for dipping!
Happy cooking! This soup is a comforting delight that’s perfect for sharing with friends and family or enjoying on a chilly night!
Can I Use Another Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage for a lighter version or even chicken sausage if you prefer. Vegetarian or plant-based sausage is also a great alternative if you want to make the soup meat-free.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, it’s best to do so on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen up the soup if it thickens too much.
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi can be used directly in the soup! Just toss them in and cook for an extra minute or so until heated through, since they might take a bit longer than fresh gnocchi.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free version, try using coconut milk or a cashew cream for a similar creamy texture!
