This delicious soup combines soft gnocchi, flavorful Italian sausage, and creamy goodness in every spoonful. It’s like a warm hug in a bowl!
Make sure to have some crusty bread nearby for dipping. Trust me, you’ll want to soak up every last bit of this tasty soup! 🍞
I love how quickly this dish comes together. Just brown the sausage, add the rest, and let it simmer. Perfect for busy nights when comfort food is a must!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This ingredient is the star of the soup! You can use mild or spicy sausage depending on your taste buds. For a lighter option, turkey or chicken sausage works well, too.
Gnocchi: Store-bought gnocchi is super convenient, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade gnocchi is delicious! If you can’t find gnocchi, feel free to use small pasta, like elbow macaroni or ditalini.
Heavy Cream: The cream gives the soup its rich, velvety texture. If you’re looking to lighten things up, you can substitute half-and-half or even coconut milk for a dairy-free version!
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrition. You can substitute it with other greens like kale or Swiss chard. Just remember to cook them a bit longer to soften.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Sausage?
Getting that savory flavor from the sausage is crucial! Start by cooking it in a hot pot so it browns nicely. This caramelization adds depth to the dish.
- Break up the sausage with a spoon into smaller pieces while cooking.
- Let it cook until it’s fully browned before adding garlic and onion.
- This process brings out the sausage’s natural flavors, making your soup richer.
What’s the Right Way to Prepare Gnocchi?
Cooking gnocchi perfectly is key to a delightful texture. Follow these steps:
- Add the gnocchi at the end of cooking to avoid overcooking.
- Cook until they float to the top, typically around 2-3 minutes.
- Be gentle when stirring to keep them intact.
Enjoy every spoonful of this comforting soup! It’s bound to become a favorite in your home.
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casings removed
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This comforting soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need about 25 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Browning the Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook it until it’s browned and cooked through, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Enjoy the delicious aroma filling your kitchen!
2. Sautéing Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the pot with the sausage. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is fragrant and the onions are translucent. This step builds the flavors of your soup.
3. Adding the Base Ingredients:
Pour in the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like some heat). Stir everything together until well combined.
4. Cooking the Gnocchi:
Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Now, add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions. Usually, this will take about 2-3 minutes, and you’ll know it’s done when the gnocchi float to the top—so exciting!
5. Introducing the Greens:
Lower the heat and stir in the fresh spinach. Give it a moment to wilt into the soup, adding color and freshness to your dish.
6. Making It Creamy:
Finally, slowly stir in the heavy cream and the grated Parmesan cheese. This will make your soup rich and creamy. Let it heat through and be sure to season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
7. Serving Up:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra Parmesan cheese. It pairs perfectly with crusty bread for what will surely be an unforgettable meal!
This soup is rich, creamy, and bursting with Italian flavors, featuring tender gnocchi and savory sausage in every bite. Enjoy your delicious creation!
Can I Use a Different Type of Sausage?
Absolutely! You can use turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even a vegetarian sausage for a meat-free option. Just adjust the cooking time as needed to ensure it’s fully cooked through.
Can I Make This Soup Gluten-Free?
Yes! To make this soup gluten-free, use gluten-free gnocchi instead of regular. You can find them in many grocery stores, or you could make your own if you’re feeling adventurous!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.
Can I Freeze This Soup?
You can freeze this soup, but it’s best to do so before adding the cream. Freeze in airtight containers for up to 3 months. When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight, then reheat and stir in the cream just before serving.