Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is a rich, comforting one-pot meal loaded with tender gnocchi, hearty Italian sausage, fresh spinach, and a creamy broth infused with garlic and herbs. It’s warm, satisfying, and perfect for chilly evenings when you want something cozy and full of flavor.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is incredibly flavorful, thanks to the savory Italian sausage and aromatic herbs. The gnocchi provide a pillowy, chewy texture that makes every bite satisfying, while the creamy broth ties it all together. It’s simple to make, takes under an hour, and is a guaranteed hit with both kids and adults. Ideal for meal prep or a hearty weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Italian sausage (mild or spicy, removed from casing)
• Potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
• Onion (diced)
• Garlic (minced)
• Carrots (sliced or shredded)
• Celery (diced)
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream or half-and-half
• Fresh spinach or kale
• Olive oil or butter
• Italian seasoning
• Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
• Salt and black pepper
• Grated parmesan cheese (for serving)

Directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion, carrot, and celery for 4–5 minutes until softened.
3. Add garlic and cook for another 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Return the sausage to the pot. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, pepper, and optional red pepper flakes.
5. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
6. Stir in the gnocchi and cook for 3–4 minutes, or until gnocchi float to the top and are tender.
7. Lower the heat and stir in heavy cream. Simmer for 2–3 more minutes.
8. Add spinach and stir until wilted.
9. Serve hot, topped with grated parmesan and black pepper.

Servings and timing

Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes
Serves: 4 to 6

Variations

• Turkey sausage: Use turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter version.
• More veggies: Add mushrooms, zucchini, or chopped tomatoes for extra depth.
• Dairy-free: Use coconut cream or a dairy-free milk substitute.
• Spicy twist: Use hot Italian sausage and extra red pepper flakes.
• Low-carb: Replace gnocchi with cauliflower or white beans.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

To reheat, warm on the stovetop over medium-low heat or microwave in short intervals. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, no need to thaw. Just add a minute or two to the cooking time until they float and are tender.

What type of sausage works best?

Italian sausage—mild, spicy, pork, or chicken—all work well depending on your flavor preference.

Can I freeze this soup?

Yes, though the texture of gnocchi and cream may change slightly after freezing. For best results, freeze before adding the cream and add it fresh when reheating.

Is it okay to use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the soup will be thinner. Whole milk or half-and-half offers a good balance.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Use plant-based sausage and vegetable broth. Add white beans or lentils for extra protein.

Does it thicken as it sits?

Yes, the gnocchi will absorb some liquid. Add broth when reheating if needed.

How do I make it spicier?

Use spicy Italian sausage and increase red pepper flakes or add a dash of hot sauce.

Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Absolutely. Just add it gently and adjust the cooking time slightly based on thickness.

What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs well with crusty bread, a simple green salad, or garlic knots.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes. Brown the sausage first, then cook everything (except cream, gnocchi, and spinach) on low for 4–5 hours. Add gnocchi and cream in the last 30 minutes, and spinach just before serving.

Conclusion

Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is a rich, hearty bowl of comfort that’s easy to make and packed with bold flavors and textures. Whether you’re warming up on a cold night or need a satisfying one-pot dinner, this recipe delivers every time. Add it to your regular soup rotation and enjoy the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and soul-soothing goodness.

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