Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup – Easy & Hearty

Warm up with this creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup, packed with flavor and comfort. Easy to make and perfect for any day. Try it today!

Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup

If you’re searching for a comforting and flavorful dish, this creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup is exactly what you need. It combines hearty Italian sausage, pillowy gnocchi, and a rich creamy broth that makes for a perfect meal any day of the week. Plus, it’s pretty straightforward to prepare, even if you’re new to soup making.

This soup is a delicious blend of savory flavors and creamy textures that will delight your taste buds. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or something cozy to warm you up, this recipe fits the bill.

Why You’ll Love It

This soup is the ultimate comfort food. The combination of Italian sausage and gnocchi in a creamy broth means every spoonful is satisfying. It’s quick to prepare and uses simple ingredients you likely have on hand. Plus, it’s adaptable for different dietary preferences. Learn how to make this soul-warming dish below.

Ingredients

• 1 pound Italian sausage, casings removed (sweet or spicy based on preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (substitute with avocado oil if preferred)
• 1 small onion, finely diced (yellow or white onion works)
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh for best flavor)
• 4 cups chicken broth (use vegetable broth for vegetarian version)
• 1 cup heavy cream (coconut cream for dairy-free option)
• 1 teaspoon dried basil
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 package potato gnocchi (about 16 ounces; gluten-free gnocchi available)
• 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped (kale can be substituted)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (nutritional yeast for vegan)
• Red pepper flakes (optional, to add heat)

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add Italian sausage, breaking it apart as it cooks until browned and cooked through.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot. Sauté until onions become translucent and fragrant, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and stir in dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
4. Add the potato gnocchi. Cook according to package instructions or until the gnocchi float to the top, usually 2-3 minutes.
5. Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach. Cook just until the spinach wilts, about 2 minutes.
6. Remove the soup from heat and mix in the Parmesan cheese. Adjust seasoning if necessary. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Expert Tips

Make sure not to overcook the gnocchi, as they can become mushy quickly. Cooking them just until they float is a helpful trick. If you prefer a thicker soup, simmer a bit longer after adding the cream, but keep an eye to avoid curdling.

For a spicier kick, use hot Italian sausage or add red pepper flakes step by step. You can brown the sausage in advance and refrigerate for up to 2 days before making the soup.

To scale the recipe up, double the ingredients and use a larger pot. The soup freezes beautifully—see storage below.

Storage

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally to maintain creaminess.

This soup also freezes well. Cool completely, then store in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stove.

Variations

• Vegan: Use plant-based sausage, vegetable broth, coconut cream, and nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute gnocchi with gluten-free varieties.
• Dairy-Free: Swap heavy cream with coconut cream or cashew cream and omit or replace Parmesan with vegan cheese.
• Lower Sodium: Use low-sodium broth and reduce added salt.

FAQ

What makes this soup creamy?

The richness comes from heavy cream combined with cheese and the starchy gnocchi, creating a smooth and velvety broth.

Can I use pre-cooked sausage?

Yes, you can use pre-cooked sausage, but reduce initial cooking time to just soften onions and garlic before adding broth.

Is this soup good for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well and can be reheated for quick meals throughout the week.

Can I substitute gnocchi with pasta?

Yes, small pasta shapes like mini shells or ditalini work as an alternative but adjust cooking times accordingly.

How to make the Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup thicker?

Simmer longer after adding cream, or mix a small amount of cornstarch with water and stir in gradually to thicken.

Call to Action

If you love comforting and easy-to-make soups like this creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup, please leave a comment telling us your favorite variation. Don’t forget to rate the recipe and share it with friends looking for hearty meal ideas. Happy cooking!

Check out more Easy Weeknight Dinners or browse hearty options in our Soups category for more delicious inspiration. For professional tips on Italian hampering, visit Food Network.