This warm and hearty Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is a delightful mix of cozy flavors. With tender gnocchi, spicy sausage, and fresh veggies, it’s like a big hug in a bowl!
I love how quick it is to whip up! One moment you’re chopping, and next, you’re slurping up this tasty soup. Perfect for chilly nights or any day you need a pick-me-up! 🍲🥰
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Italian Sausage: This is the star of the soup! You can choose between mild or spicy, depending on your taste. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey sausage works well too!
Gnocchi: Potato gnocchi adds a lovely texture to the soup. If you’re without gnocchi, consider using small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini. Just adjust cooking times accordingly!
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. Coconut milk is a dairy-free alternative that adds a different flavor.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice color and nutrition. If you can’t find fresh, frozen spinach can do the trick—just make sure to thaw and drain it before adding!
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Has Great Flavor?
Building flavor in a soup is all about layers. Start by cooking the sausage well; this will render out fat that adds great flavor. Sauté the onions and garlic in that same pot to soak up all those tasty bits!
- Don’t rush cooking the onions; you want them soft and translucent for sweetness.
- Don’t skip the seasonings—oregano and basil work together beautifully here!
- Taste as you go. Each ingredient adds flavor, so adjust seasonings to match your preference.
How to Make Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 lb (450 g) Italian sausage (mild or spicy), casing removed
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
- 4 cups (1 liter) chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 4 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp dried basil
- 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup is quick and easy to make! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep and around 20 minutes for cooking. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes to enjoy a delicious bowl of Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Brown the Italian Sausage:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. You want it browned and cooked through, which will take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the sausage using a slotted spoon and set aside, making sure to leave that flavorful fat in the pot.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent. Then, stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until it smells amazing!
3. Add the Tomatoes and Seasonings:
Next, add the drained diced tomatoes, dried oregano, dried basil, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Cook this mixture for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally to combine the flavors.
4. Introduce the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and increase the heat until it comes to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat and let it simmer.
5. Cook the Gnocchi:
Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook according to the package instructions, which is usually about 2-3 minutes. The gnocchi will float to the top when they are ready!
6. Add Back the Sausage and Spinach:
Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir in the fresh spinach. Let it wilt for about 2 minutes, adding freshness and a splash of color!
7. Cream It Up:
Now, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, allowing it to simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes. Be careful not to let it boil!
8. Season and Serve:
Give your soup a taste and add salt and black pepper as needed. Serve this lovely soup hot with extra Parmesan cheese on top for an extra cheesy, delicious finish!
Enjoy your comforting bowl of creamy, savory Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup! Perfect for any meal, packed with flavor and heartiness! 🍲✨
Can I Use Ground Turkey Instead of Italian Sausage?
Absolutely! Ground turkey is a great substitute for Italian sausage if you prefer a leaner option. Just add your own blend of spices (like fennel and red pepper flakes) to mimic the traditional Italian sausage flavor.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. If you want to keep it longer, consider freezing it! Just ensure to store it in freezer-safe containers, and it should last for about 2-3 months.
Can I Skip the Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter soup, you can skip the heavy cream. Try using half-and-half, whole milk, or even a splash of vegetable broth for added liquid without the creaminess.
What Can I Use Instead of Spinach?
If spinach isn’t your preference, you can use kale or Swiss chard as alternatives. Just make sure to chop them into bite-sized pieces and cook them until they’re tender before serving!
