This Hearty Sausage Gnocchi Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s full of tasty sausage, soft gnocchi, and fresh veggies simmered in a rich broth, making it cozy and filling.
On a chilly day, this soup is just what you need. I love how the gnocchi makes it extra comforting, and the leftovers taste even better the next day—if there are any left! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: You can choose between mild or spicy sausage for this recipe. If you prefer, turkey sausage or chicken sausage works well too, making it lighter. I sometimes use a mix of both to get a little heat without going overboard.
Gnocchi: This recipe calls for potato gnocchi, but if you can’t find it, you could use fresh tortellini or even regular pasta like penne. Keep in mind that cooking times will vary, so check the packaging.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds a nice color and nutritional boost. If you don’t have any, you could substitute kale or Swiss chard, just cook it a bit longer until tender.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or skip the cream altogether for a brothier soup. Coconut milk is a good dairy-free option, adding a slightly different taste.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from My Soup?
Building flavor is key in making your soup delicious! Start by browning the sausage well; this adds depth to the broth. Make sure to cook the onions until they’re soft before adding the garlic—this prevents burning, which can make it taste bitter.
- Use medium heat to sauté the sausage and onions without rushing. Browning them nicely takes about 5-7 minutes.
- When adding your tomatoes and broth, scrape the bottom of the pot to release any flavorful bits stuck there.
- Taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasoning. Add more salt, pepper, or Italian seasoning to suit your taste.
Following these tips will ensure a rich, flavorful soup that will warm you up on cold days!
Hearty Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup water (optional, for thinning)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 3 cups fresh spinach leaves
- ¼ cup heavy cream
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This hearty soup will take about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a cozy weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Sausage:
In a large pot, heat up the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and break it up with a spoon. Cook until the sausage is browned and cooked through, which should take about 5-7 minutes. If there’s excess fat, feel free to drain some out.
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Next, toss in the chopped onion and cook until it becomes soft, around 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and stir for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Incorporate the Broth and Tomatoes:
Now pour in the diced tomatoes (including the juices) and chicken broth. Sprinkle in the Italian seasoning and give it a good stir. Bring the soup to a nice simmer, and don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook the Gnocchi:
Add the gnocchi to the bubbling pot and allow them to cook until they float to the surface, which will take about 3-5 minutes. That means they’re ready!
5. Add the Spinach:
Stir in the fresh spinach leaves, cooking just until they wilt down, which should take a quick 1-2 minutes. This adds great color and nutrients to your soup.
6. Finish with Cream and Cheese:
Decrease the heat and mix in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined and warmed through. This gives your soup a deliciously creamy texture!
7. Serve:
Dish up your soup while it’s hot and top with extra Parmesan cheese if desired. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Hearty Sausage Gnocchi Soup!
This soup combines Italian sausage and soft potato gnocchi in a savory tomato broth with fresh spinach and a hint of creaminess from the Parmesan and cream. Perfectly comforting and filling!
Can I Use Other Types of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option, or even a vegan sausage if you prefer a plant-based meal. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can! The soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors meld. You can prepare it a day in advance and store it in the fridge. Just reheating on the stove over low heat should do the trick!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can warm it on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of water or broth to loosen it up if it thickens too much.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Absolutely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, zucchini, or bell peppers. Just chop them small and sauté them with the onion before adding the broth for added flavor and nutrition!
