This Hearty Sausage Gnocchi Soup is a cozy delight! It combines juicy sausage, tender gnocchi, and fresh veggies in a warm and tasty broth. Perfect for chilly days!
Whenever I make this soup, the smell fills the kitchen, and it makes everyone so happy. I love pairing it with a crusty bread for dipping—yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the soup! You can use either mild or spicy depending on your taste. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey or chicken sausage also works well.
Gnocchi: Potato gnocchi adds a wonderful chewy texture. If you can’t find it, consider using small pasta like tortellini or mini shells instead. They will still absorb the tasty broth nicely.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and vitamins. You can swap it with kale or Swiss chard if you prefer. Just keep in mind that these greens may need a little longer to cook down.
Heavy Cream: For a creamier soup, use heavy cream. If you’re looking for a lighter option, half-and-half or even coconut milk can work. For a dairy-free choice, try almond milk or oat milk, but the flavor will vary.
How Do I Get the Best Flavor from the Soup?
Getting the flavors just right is crucial for this delicious soup. Here are some tips:
- Browning the Sausage: Take your time browning the sausage for a rich flavor. Don’t rush this step!
- Cook the Veggies: Make sure the onion is softened before adding garlic. Garlic cooks quickly, and we don’t want it to burn.
- Simmering Time: Let the soup simmer for at least 10 minutes. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Tasting: Always taste your soup after adding the gnocchi and before serving to adjust seasoning. A little extra salt can really enhance the flavors!
Hearty Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (14.5-ounce) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1/4 cup heavy cream (optional for extra creaminess)
- Freshly grated Parmesan cheese, for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This Hearty Sausage Gnocchi Soup takes about 30 minutes to prepare, from start to finish. You’ll spend around 10 minutes prepping the ingredients and cooking the sausage and veggies, followed by approximately 10 minutes for simmering the soup, plus a few minutes for the gnocchi and spinach. In no time, you’ll have a warm bowl of deliciousness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Sausage:
Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, until the sausage is browned and fully cooked. The aroma will already be delightful!
2. Add Onions and Garlic:
Next, toss in the chopped onion and sauté until softened, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, cooking for another minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to let it burn!
3. Mix in the Base Ingredients:
Pour in the canned diced tomatoes along with their juices, chicken broth, Italian seasoning, and optionally, the crushed red pepper flakes. Season the mixture with salt and pepper to your taste. Stir everything together and bring it to a gentle boil.
4. Let It Simmer:
Lower the heat to a simmer and let the soup cook for about 10 minutes. This helps all the amazing flavors meld together nicely!
5. Add the Gnocchi:
Now, it’s time to add the gnocchi. Toss them into the pot and simmer until they start floating to the top, roughly 3-4 minutes. This is when your soup really starts to come together, and it smells heavenly!
6. Incorporate the Spinach:
Stir in the fresh spinach leaves and let them cook for just 1-2 minutes until wilted. This adds a pop of color and freshness to your soup.
7. Make It Creamy (Optional):
If you’re looking for a richer broth, stir in the heavy cream now. Allow it to heat through for a minute or two.
8. Final Taste Test:
Taste your soup and adjust seasoning with more salt or pepper if necessary. This last step ensures it’s perfectly flavorful!
9. Serve Up the Comfort:
Serve the soup hot and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top. Enjoy the warmth and comforting flavors of your Hearty Sausage Gnocchi Soup!
This dish is perfect for a cozy night in, and it pairs beautifully with some crusty bread for dipping. Enjoy!
Can I Use Different Types of Sausage in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Feel free to use turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a leaner option. You can also try flavored sausages like garlic or smoked sausage for extra depth of flavor.
Is This Soup Freezable?
Yes, but it’s best to freeze it before adding the gnocchi to prevent them from becoming mushy. Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 months. To reheat, simply thaw and simmer, then add fresh gnocchi just before serving.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Of course! Replace the sausage with plant-based sausage or sautéed mushrooms for a hearty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian-friendly.
How Can I Thicken the Soup?
If you’d like a thicker consistency, you can add a cornstarch slurry—mix 1 tablespoon of cornstarch with 2 tablespoons of cold water and stir it into the soup during the last few minutes of cooking.
