Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup: Cozy, Hearty, and Delicious

There’s nothing quite like a warm bowl of soup on a chilly night, and Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup takes comfort food to the next level. This rich and hearty soup features flavorful Italian sausage, tender potato gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and a creamy, indulgent broth that’s perfect for family dinners or a cozy night in. Every spoonful is satisfying, full of flavor, and surprisingly easy to make.

The combination of Italian sausage and gnocchi makes this soup hearty enough to serve as a meal on its own. The sausage adds a savory depth, while the gnocchi soaks up the creamy broth, creating a luscious, velvety texture. This dish is versatile—you can add vegetables like spinach, kale, or zucchini for extra nutrition, and adjust the creaminess to your preference. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s ideal for weeknight dinners, meal prep, or entertaining guests.

Ingredients:

1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium onion, diced
2–3 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, sliced
2 celery stalks, sliced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
Salt and pepper, to taste
2 cups fresh spinach (optional)
1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus extra for garnish)

Method:

Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and fully cooked. Remove from the pot and set aside, leaving a small amount of fat for sautéing vegetables.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Add diced onions, carrots, and celery to the pot. Sauté for 5–6 minutes, or until vegetables are softened. Add minced garlic and Italian seasoning, and cook for another 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Return the cooked sausage to the pot, reduce heat, and let the soup simmer for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Add the potato gnocchi to the simmering soup. Cook according to package instructions, usually 2–4 minutes, until the gnocchi float to the surface and are tender.

Step 5: Add Cream and Spinach
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream. Add fresh spinach if desired, cooking until wilted. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir in grated Parmesan cheese for added richness.

Step 6: Serve
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with additional Parmesan cheese. Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast for a complete, comforting meal.

Tips and Variations:

• Sausage Choice: Mild or spicy Italian sausage works; remove casings for easier browning.
• Vegetable Variations: Add zucchini, kale, or mushrooms to boost nutrition and flavor.
• Cream Substitute: Half-and-half or coconut cream can be used for a lighter or dairy-free version.
• Make Ahead: Soup can be prepared ahead and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; add gnocchi just before serving to prevent overcooking.
• Extra Flavor: Finish with a drizzle of olive oil or a pinch of red pepper flakes for added depth.

Conclusion:
Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is a hearty, comforting, and flavorful dish perfect for cold nights, family dinners, or a cozy weeknight meal. Its creamy broth, tender gnocchi, and savory sausage make every bite irresistible, and it’s easy enough for any home cook to prepare without stress. This soup is both comforting and impressive, proving that simple ingredients can create extraordinary flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

Q1: Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes. Fresh or frozen gnocchi works well. Add frozen gnocchi directly to the simmering soup, cooking until tender.

Q2: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes. Substitute sausage with plant-based sausage or roasted vegetables and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Q3: Can this be frozen?
It’s best to freeze the soup without the gnocchi. Cook gnocchi fresh when ready to serve for optimal texture.

Q4: Can I use half-and-half instead of heavy cream?
Yes. The soup will be slightly lighter but still creamy and flavorful.

Q5: Can I make this spicy?
Use spicy Italian sausage or add crushed red pepper flakes to taste for a subtle heat.

Q6: Can I prepare this ahead of time?
Yes. Make the soup a day in advance and refrigerate. Reheat gently and add gnocchi and fresh spinach just before serving.

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This Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate combination of hearty, creamy, and flavorful elements, making it a favorite for easy weeknight dinners or comforting family meals. Each bite delivers warmth, richness, and satisfaction, perfect for cozy evenings at home.