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Ah, the memories of finding this delightful Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup! It was a chilly evening, and I was flipping through my grandmother’s old recipe book. The scent of browning sausage wafted through the air, mingling with hints of garlic and onion sizzling in butter—pure culinary magic. That first spoonful was like a warm hug from the inside out. The soft, pillowy gnocchi danced in a rich, creamy broth, lovingly embraced by vibrant spinach and the savory goodness of Italian spices. This soup has become a staple in my home, bringing family and friends together around the table, where laughter flows as freely as the soup. I know you’ll love it, too—it’s not just a recipe; it’s an experience brimming with warmth and comfort.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Easy to Make: This soup comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
- Flavorful Comfort: The combination of Italian sausage, creamy broth, and tender gnocchi is pure bliss.
- Crowd-Pleasing: Whether it’s a family gathering or a cozy dinner for two, everyone will adore this dish.
- Versatile: Load it up with veggies or spices to make it your own!
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time to relax after cooking!
Ingredients
1 lb Italian sausage
Tip: Use hot or mild sausage depending on your preferred spice level—both are delightful!1 small onion, diced
Tip: A sweet onion adds a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the savory sausage.2 cloves garlic, minced
Tip: Fresh garlic is where the magic happens—it adds a punchy aroma that will fill your kitchen with coziness!4 cups chicken broth
Tip: Homemade broth is fantastic, but store-bought works great and saves time!1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
Tip: You can find gnocchi fresh or dried; either will work perfectly for this soup!1 cup heavy cream
Tip: Dive into the creaminess! You can substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version.2 cups spinach
Tip: Fresh spinach wilts down beautifully, adding both color and nutrients to your dish!Salt and pepper to taste
Tip: Season thoughtfully; a pinch of each can elevate the flavors remarkably!Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Tip: Freshly grated cheese melts beautifully on top and adds a rich finish!
Full recipe card is below.
How to Make It
1. Cook the Italian sausage
In a large pot, heat it over medium heat until browned. Let the sizzle entice you as it fills your kitchen with its delicious scent. This is where the base of our flavor starts!
2. Add diced onion and garlic
Once the sausage is nicely browned, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent. The mix of savory sausage and sweet onion creates a harmony that’s oh-so-irresistible.
3. Pour in the chicken broth
Now, pour in the chicken broth, and bring everything to a gentle simmer. The aromas will start to twirl around your kitchen, making it feel like a cozy Italian trattoria!
4. Add the gnocchi
Next, add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions. Watch them puff up and float to the top, soaking in all that comforting broth.
5. Stir in the heavy cream and spinach
Drizzle the heavy cream into the pot, followed by the spinach. Stir gently until the spinach wilts and turns vibrant green, adding a wonderful splash of color to our soup.
6. Season to taste
Season with salt and pepper to taste. Don’t be afraid to adjust the seasoning to your liking; it’s all about making it perfect for you!
7. Serve hot
Ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt just slightly, resulting in a creamy dream. Enjoy it while it’s hot!
Pro Tips for Success
- Don’t overcook the gnocchi: They cook quickly, so keep an eye on them to maintain that pillowy texture!
- Fresh herbs: Adding a sprinkle of fresh basil or parsley at the end can elevate the dish even more!
- Taste as you go: Each ingredient is important; tasting throughout the cooking process ensures a wonderfully balanced flavor!
- Variations: Don’t hesitate to throw in your favorite veggies like carrots or mushrooms for additional flavors and nutrients.
Flavor Variations
- Vegetable Swap: Replace spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a different texture!
- Cheese Choices: Swap parmesan for mozzarella or even crumbled feta for a unique twist.
- Spice It Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes brings on some warmth that’s simply delightful.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs perfectly with crusty bread or a fresh garden salad. For drinks, a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio would complement the flavors beautifully! Consider serving in rustic bowls for that cozy kitchen vibe.
Make-Ahead & Storage
You can make this soup ahead of time—it only gets better as the flavors meld! Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Just be sure to keep the gnocchi and broth separate if possible to maintain texture.
Leftovers
Turn leftovers into a delightful pasta bake! Just mix with cooked pasta, top with cheese, and bake until bubbly. Alternatively, it’s perfect as a quick lunch the next day!
Freezing
Feel free to freeze this soup, but I recommend leaving out the cream before freezing. Portion it in freezer-safe containers, and it will last up to three months. When ready to consume, thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if the soup has thickened. You can also use the microwave, but stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a healthier option while still packing flavor.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Sure! Use vegetable broth, skip the sausage, and load up on those veggies!
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add some red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce in the cooking process for an extra kick!
What if I can’t find gnocchi?
Don’t worry—use small pasta shapes instead, such as orzo or ditalini, for a delightful twist!
Final Thoughts
As you tuck into this rich, creamy bowl of Italian goodness, know that it’s not just a meal; it’s a memory in the making. Each slurp is an invitation to relax, to savor, and to share warmth with others. It’s recipes like this that make the world feel just a little cozier, so grab some friends or family, let the laughter fill the air, and enjoy this delightful soup together. Happy cooking, my dear friends! 💖
Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
Method
- In a large pot, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned.
- Add diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions.
- Stir in the heavy cream and spinach, cooking until the spinach is wilted.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese.