This Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With spicy sausage, soft gnocchi, and fresh veggies, it’s hearty and super tasty.
You’ll love how quick it is to make too! I like to serve it with some crusty bread on the side—perfect for dipping! 🍞❤️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the soup! You can use either mild or spicy sausage. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage is a decent substitute. Just be sure to season it well!
Gnocchi: The potato gnocchi brings a lovely texture. If you can’t find gnocchi, small pasta like tortellini or ditalini works too. Just adjust cooking time according to the pasta you choose.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. You could replace it with kale or Swiss chard if you like. Just chop them a bit smaller to help them cook down easily.
Heavy Cream: This creamy component makes the soup rich. If you’re avoiding dairy, try using coconut milk or a non-dairy cream alternative for a similar texture. For a lower-calorie alternative, half-and-half works well too.
How Can You Get the Best Flavor from the Sausage?
The sausage is essential for flavor in this soup, so here’s how to make it shine:
- Cook the sausage well, breaking it up into small pieces. This helps release those tasty juices, which flavor the soup.
- For an extra kick, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the sausage.
What’s the Best Way to Combine Ingredients Without Clumping?
After adding the chicken broth and tomatoes, it’s key to stir everything together well:
- Make sure to scrape the bottom of the pot to lift any flavorful bits stuck there—this adds depth!
- Once you add the gnocchi, stir gently to prevent it from clumping together.
How Do You Ensure a Creamy Texture without Curdling?
To get that perfect creamy texture:
- Reduce heat to low before adding the heavy cream. A slow addition helps prevent curdling.
- Stir constantly while adding the cream for even distribution. This keeps it smooth!
Enjoy making this hearty soup, perfect for any chilly day!
Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups (960 ml) chicken broth
- 1 cup (240 ml) heavy cream
- 1 (14.5 oz / 400 g) can diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 (16 oz / 450 g) package potato gnocchi
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon dried basil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup can be made in about 30 minutes. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and 20 minutes cooking. It’s quick and ideal 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 up with a spoon. Cook until it’s browned and no longer pink, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain it off.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until it’s softened, around 3-4 minutes. Then, stir in the garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant, ensuring that the garlic doesn’t burn.
3. Add the Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth and diced tomatoes. Then stir in the oregano, basil, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
4. Cook the Gnocchi:
Once simmering, add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
5. Incorporate Cream and Spinach:
Lower the heat and stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Let the soup simmer for an additional 2 minutes, or until the spinach is wilted and everything is beautifully heated through.
6. Mix in Parmesan:
Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it’s melted and fully combined. Take a taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt or pepper if you’d like.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with additional Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Enjoy your comforting, creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut cream or almond milk, but be aware that it may alter the flavor slightly.
Can I Use Fresh Gnocchi Instead of Frozen?
Absolutely! If you’re using fresh gnocchi, adjust the cooking time accordingly—fresh gnocchi usually cooks faster, typically in just 1-2 minutes after they float.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain a smooth consistency.
Can I Use Other Vegetables in This Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add other veggies like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just chop them small and add them in with the onions so they cook through by the time you add the gnocchi.
