This hearty sausage gnocchi soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It features juicy sausage, soft potato gnocchi, and fresh veggies simmered in a tasty broth.
You can’t go wrong with a big bowl of this goodness on a chilly day! I love how quick it is to make; just sauté, add, and simmer—perfect for busy evenings! 🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can use either mild or spicy sausage depending on your flavor preference. If you’re looking for a leaner option, try ground turkey or chicken sausage instead!
Olive Oil: This oil adds a nice flavor when cooking the sausage. Feel free to substitute with avocado oil or any neutral oil if you prefer.
Spinach: Fresh spinach provides nutrition and color. If you don’t have fresh, use kale or even frozen spinach. Just make sure to thaw and drain it well!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, swap in half-and-half or whole milk. If you’re dairy-free, coconut cream works well for a different flavor!
Chicken Broth: This is the base of the soup. Vegetable broth is a great substitute for a vegetarian version or if you’re out of chicken broth.
How Do You Cook the Perfect Gnocchi in Soup?
Cooking gnocchi is quick and easy! They’re made from potatoes and cook faster than traditional pasta, so watch closely.
- Wait until the soup is simmering before adding gnocchi to ensure they cook evenly.
- Cook gnocchi according to the package instructions—typically only about 3 minutes—until they float to the top. This indicates they’re done!
- If they’re fully cooked, avoid letting them simmer too long in the sauce to prevent them from becoming mushy.
If you follow these tips, you’ll have perfectly tender gnocchi in your delicious soup. Enjoy your cooking!
Hearty Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup takes about 15 minutes to prepare and 15-20 minutes to cook, making it ready to enjoy in just about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a comforting meal on a busy weeknight!
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 and break it up with a wooden spoon. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5–7 minutes. Once done, carefully remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside on a plate.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until it becomes soft, around 3–4 minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic and sliced red bell pepper. Cook for an additional 1–2 minutes, being careful not to let the garlic burn.
3. Add the Broth and Seasonings:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring everything to a gentle simmer. Add the cooked sausage back into the pot along with the dried Italian seasoning, optional red pepper flakes, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it simmer for about 5 minutes to blend all the flavors together.
4. Incorporate the Cream and Gnocchi:
Slowly stir in the heavy cream, mixing well. Now it’s time to add the potato gnocchi to the pot. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 3 minutes, until the gnocchi float to the top and are tender.
5. Add the Spinach:
Finally, stir in the chopped fresh spinach and let it cook until just wilted, about 1–2 minutes.
6. Final Adjustments:
Give the soup a quick taste and adjust any seasoning with more salt and pepper if desired.
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh chopped parsley. Serve warm and enjoy every cozy bite!
This rich and savory soup is perfect for sharing with friends and family on chilly nights. Enjoy! 🍲✨
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option, or even vegetarian sausage for a meatless version. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly based on the type of sausage you choose.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prep this soup ahead of time! You can cook the sausage and veggies and then add the broth later. However, it’s best to add the gnocchi and spinach when you’re ready to serve, as they cook quickly and retain better texture that way.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave until heated through. If the soup thickens in the fridge, you can add a splash of broth or water during reheating to reach your desired consistency.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
While this soup can be frozen, it’s best to omit the gnocchi before freezing as they can become mushy upon reheating. Freeze the soup base for up to 3 months, then add cooked gnocchi and spinach when you thaw and reheat it for the best texture!
