Italian Gnocchi Soup: Imagine a bowl brimming with pillowy soft gnocchi, swimming in a savory, herb-infused broth, studded with tender vegetables and flavorful Italian sausage. It's comfort food elevated, a hug in a bowl, and a dish that's surprisingly easy to make at home. Have I got your attention?

Gnocchi, those delightful little dumplings, have a rich history rooted in Northern Italy. While their exact origins are debated, they've been a staple for centuries, evolving from simple peasant fare to a beloved dish enjoyed worldwide. This Italian Gnocchi Soup takes those humble dumplings and transforms them into something truly special.

What makes this soup so irresistible? It's the perfect combination of textures – the soft gnocchi, the crisp-tender vegetables, and the satisfying chew of the sausage. The broth is deeply flavorful, infused with garlic, herbs, and a touch of tomato. And let's be honest, who can resist the allure of warm, comforting soup, especially on a chilly evening? This recipe is also incredibly versatile; feel free to customize it with your favorite vegetables or protein. Whether you're a seasoned cook or a kitchen novice, this Italian Gnocchi Soup is sure to become a family favorite!

Ingredients:

1 tablespoon olive oil
1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
1 medium yellow onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
1 (16 ounce) package potato gnocchi
5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
1/4 cup heavy cream
Salt and pepper to taste
Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving

Preparing the Soup Base

Brown the Sausage: Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Make sure to crumble the sausage well so you don't have large chunks in your soup.
Sauté the Aromatics: Remove the sausage from the pot and set aside. Leave any rendered fat in the pot. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as it can become bitter.
Build the Flavor: Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits (fond). This adds a lot of flavor to the soup. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
Simmer the Soup: Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. You can simmer it for longer, up to an hour, for an even richer flavor.

Cooking the Gnocchi and Finishing the Soup

Add the Gnocchi: Increase the heat to medium and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. Add the potato gnocchi to the pot. Cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface and are tender. Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi, as they can become mushy.
Incorporate the Sausage and Spinach: Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts, about 1-2 minutes. The spinach will cook down quickly, so keep an eye on it.
Add Cream and Season: Stir in the heavy cream. This adds richness and creaminess to the soup. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Start with a small amount of salt and pepper and then adjust as needed. Remember that the sausage and broth already contain salt.
Serve: Ladle the gnocchi soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Tips and Variations

Here are a few tips and variations to customize your Italian Gnocchi Soup:

Type of Sausage: You can use sweet Italian sausage, spicy Italian sausage, or even a combination of both. For a leaner option, use turkey sausage.
Vegetables: Feel free to add other vegetables to the soup, such as carrots, celery, or zucchini. Add them along with the onion and garlic.
Broth: Chicken broth is the most common choice, but you can also use vegetable broth or beef broth.
Spice Level: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking. If you don't like spice, omit them altogether.
Cheese: Besides Parmesan cheese, you can also use Romano cheese or Asiago cheese for garnish.
Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can be added as a garnish for extra flavor.
Make it Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. You can add a can of cannellini beans for protein.
Creaminess: For an even creamier soup, you can use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. You can also blend a small portion of the soup with an immersion blender and then stir it back into the pot.
Gnocchi Options: While potato gnocchi is traditional, you can also use cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb option.
Storage: Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. The gnocchi may become a bit softer upon reheating.
Freezing: While you can freeze this soup, the gnocchi may become slightly mushy upon thawing. If you plan to freeze the soup, it's best to undercook the gnocchi slightly.

Detailed Steps and Considerations

Let's delve deeper into each step to ensure your Italian Gnocchi Soup turns out perfectly every time:

Browning the Sausage:

The browning process is crucial for developing a rich, savory flavor in the soup. Don't rush this step. Allow the sausage to brown properly before breaking it up. The browned bits that stick to the bottom of the pot are packed with flavor and will be deglazed later with the chicken broth.

If you're using a leaner sausage, you may need to add a bit more olive oil to prevent it from sticking to the pot.

Sautéing the Aromatics:

Sautéing the onion and garlic is another important step for building flavor. Cook the onion until it's softened and translucent, but not browned. This usually takes about 5 minutes. Add the garlic only in the last minute of cooking, as it can burn easily and become bitter. The garlic should be fragrant but not browned.

Building the Flavor:

Using high-quality chicken broth will significantly enhance the flavor of the soup. If you have homemade chicken broth, that's even better! The diced tomatoes add acidity and sweetness to the soup. Using undrained diced tomatoes adds more body and flavor to the soup.

The dried basil and oregano provide a classic Italian flavor. Feel free to adjust the amount to your liking. If you prefer fresh herbs, add them towards the end of cooking to preserve their flavor.

Simmering the Soup:

Simmering the soup allows the flavors to meld together and deepen. The longer you simmer it, the richer the flavor will be. However, be careful not to over-simmer it, as the tomatoes can become too acidic.

Cooking the Gnocchi:

The cooking time for gnocchi can vary depending on the brand and type. Follow the package directions for best results. The gnocchi are done when they float to the surface and are tender. Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy.

If you're using frozen gnocchi, you may need to add a few extra minutes to the cooking time.

Incorporating the Sausage and Spinach:

Adding the cooked sausage back to the pot adds protein and flavor to the soup. The spinach wilts quickly, so add it only in the last minute or two of cooking. This will help it retain its vibrant green color and nutrients.

If you're using frozen spinach, thaw it and squeeze out any excess water before adding it to the soup.

Adding Cream and Seasoning:

The heavy cream adds richness and creaminess to the soup. You can adjust the amount to your liking. For a lighter soup, use half-and-half or milk. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Be sure to taste the soup before adding any seasoning, as the sausage and broth already contain salt.

Serving:

Serve the gnocchi soup hot and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. You can also add a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley for extra flavor and visual appeal.

A crusty bread or garlic bread is a great accompaniment to this soup.

Troubleshooting:

Soup is too thick: Add more chicken broth to thin it out.
Soup is too thin: Simmer the soup uncovered for a longer period of time to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.
Soup is too bland: Add more salt, pepper, or herbs. You can also add a squeeze of lemon juice for brightness.
Gnocchi are mushy: You may have overcooked the gnocchi. Be sure to follow the package directions and check them frequently.

Conclusion:
This Italian Gnocchi Soup isn't just another soup recipe; it's a warm hug in a bowl, a taste of Italy right in your own kitchen, and an experience you absolutely don't want to miss. From the pillowy soft gnocchi to the rich, savory broth bursting with Italian herbs and vegetables, every spoonful is a delightful journey for your taste buds. It's quick enough for a weeknight meal but impressive enough to serve to guests. Trust me, once you try it, this will become a staple in your recipe rotation. But why is this soup a must-try? Beyond the incredible flavor, it's incredibly versatile. You can easily adapt it to your preferences and dietary needs. Want to add more protein? Toss in some cooked Italian sausage or shredded chicken. Craving more vegetables? Spinach, kale, or even zucchini would be fantastic additions. For a creamier texture, stir in a dollop of mascarpone cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end. The possibilities are truly endless! Speaking of serving suggestions, this soup is delicious on its own, but it's even better with a few simple accompaniments. A crusty loaf of bread for dipping is a must, allowing you to soak up every last drop of that flavorful broth. A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese adds a salty, savory note that complements the soup perfectly. And for a touch of freshness, a drizzle of high-quality olive oil and a scattering of fresh basil leaves will elevate the dish to restaurant-quality. Consider these variations to make it your own:
Spice it Up:
If you like a little heat, add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup while it's simmering.
Make it Vegetarian/Vegan:
Easily make this soup vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For a vegan version, ensure your gnocchi is egg-free and omit the Parmesan cheese. Nutritional yeast can be used as a substitute for a cheesy flavor.
Add More Vegetables:
Don't be afraid to load up on the veggies! Diced carrots, celery, and bell peppers are all great additions.
Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup:
Blend a can of drained and rinsed cannellini beans into the soup for a creamy texture and added protein. I'm so excited for you to try this recipe and experience the joy of homemade Italian Gnocchi Soup. It's a labor of love, but the results are well worth the effort. The aroma that fills your kitchen as it simmers is simply intoxicating, and the first taste will have you hooked. So, what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients, put on some Italian music, and get ready to create a culinary masterpiece. And most importantly, don't forget to share your experience! I'd love to hear how the recipe turned out for you, what variations you tried, and any tips or tricks you discovered along the way. Share your photos and stories in the comments below – let's build a community of gnocchi soup lovers! Happy cooking!
Italian Gnocchi Soup: A Hearty & Delicious Recipe
Hearty Italian Gnocchi Soup with sausage, gnocchi, spinach, and a creamy broth. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal!
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time30 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Category: Dinner
Yield: 6 servings
Save This Recipe
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casings
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 ounce) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 (16 ounce) package potato gnocchi
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup heavy cream
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned and cooked through (5-7 minutes). Remove from the pot and set aside.
2. Leave any rendered fat in the pot. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened (about 5 minutes). Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any browned bits. Add the diced tomatoes (undrained), dried basil, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes (if using). Stir to combine.
4. Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes (or up to an hour for richer flavor).
5. Increase the heat to medium and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer. Add the potato gnocchi to the pot. Cook according to the package directions (usually about 3-5 minutes), or until the gnocchi float to the surface and are tender.
6. Return the cooked sausage to the pot. Add the chopped spinach and stir until it wilts (about 1-2 minutes).
7. Stir in the heavy cream. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Ladle the gnocchi soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Notes
- Sausage: Use sweet, spicy, or a combination of Italian sausage. Turkey sausage is a leaner option.
- Vegetables: Add carrots, celery, or zucchini along with the onion and garlic.
- Broth: Vegetable or beef broth can be substituted for chicken broth.
- Spice: Adjust the amount of red pepper flakes to your liking.
- Cheese: Romano or Asiago cheese can be used for garnish.
- Herbs: Fresh basil or parsley can be added as a garnish.
- Vegetarian: Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth. Add a can of cannellini beans for protein.
- Creaminess: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Blend a small portion of the soup with an immersion blender for an even creamier texture.
- Gnocchi: Cauliflower gnocchi can be used for a lower-carb option.
- Storage: Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Freezing: The gnocchi may become slightly mushy upon thawing. Undercook the gnocchi slightly if you plan to freeze the soup.

Italian Gnocchi Soup: A Hearty & Delicious Recipe