Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Warm up with this indulgent and comforting Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup, a dish packed with hearty flavors and creamy goodness. If you’re looking for a recipe that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, you’ve found it! This soup is not only delicious but also easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. Once you try it, you’ll see why it has become a favorite in my home.

Every spoonful of this Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup is bursting with flavor and warmth. It’s the kind of meal that brings everyone together, whether it’s a cozy dinner or a satisfying lunch. Grab your ingredients and let’s get cooking!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for those nights when you’re short on time.
• Family-Friendly: The creamy texture and flavorful sausage make it appealing to both kids and adults alike!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prepare this soup in advance and reheat it for an effortless meal throughout the week.
• Customizable: Feel free to switch up ingredients based on what you have on hand or your family’s preferences.
• Comfort in a Bowl: This soup is rich and hearty, perfect for cozying up with on those cold nights.

Ingredients You’ll Need

For this delightful Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup, you’ll be using simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully. Here’s what you need:

Main Ingredients

• 1 package gnocchi
• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1 cup carrots, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tsp dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste

Variations

This recipe is wonderfully flexible! Feel free to experiment with different ingredients to put your own spin on the soup.

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey sausage or chicken sausage for a lighter option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some diced bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: For those who enjoy heat, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick.
• Go dairy-free: Substitute coconut milk for heavy cream if you’re looking for a dairy-free version.

How to Make Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook until it’s browned, breaking it apart as it cooks. This step is crucial as it adds depth of flavor to the soup. Once the sausage is cooked through, drain any excess fat and set it aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, add garlic and diced carrots. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they soften. This step helps release the flavors of the garlic while making the carrots tender.

Step 3: Add the Broth

Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring everything to a simmer. This will create a warm base for your soup that melds all the flavors beautifully.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

Add your gnocchi to the simmering broth. Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they float to the top. Floating gnocchi means they are perfectly cooked!

Step 5: Stir in Spinach and Cream

Next, toss in fresh spinach followed by heavy cream. Letting the spinach wilt will not only enhance its flavor but also brighten up your soup’s color.

Step 6: Combine Everything

Return the cooked sausage back into the pot along with thyme, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer together for another 5 minutes so that all those lovely flavors can blend beautifully.

Step 7: Serve Up!

Your Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup is ready! Serve hot in bowls garnished with fresh herbs or Parmesan if desired. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Cooking can be a delightful adventure, and with these tips, your Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup will be even more delicious!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and crisp carrots not only enhance the flavor but also add vibrant color and essential nutrients to your soup.

• Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, consider substituting some of the heavy cream with milk or a plant-based alternative like coconut milk. This will keep the soup creamy while reducing richness.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other herbs like basil or oregano for an extra layer of flavor. Each herb brings its unique profile that can elevate your dish.

• Don’t rush the sausage cooking: Allowing the sausage to brown properly is key to developing deep, rich flavors that enrich the entire soup. Take your time!

• Make it ahead of time: This soup actually tastes better the next day as the flavors mingle. Prepare it in advance and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy a cozy meal.

How to Serve Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Serving your Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup is just as important as making it! With a few thoughtful touches, you can turn this comforting dish into a beautiful centerpiece for any meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped parsley: A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds a burst of color and freshness, brightening up each bowl.
• Crushed red pepper flakes: For those who love a bit of heat, offering chili flakes on the side allows everyone to customize their spice level.
• Grated Parmesan cheese: While optional, a light dusting of Parmesan adds a savory depth that complements the creamy texture of the soup beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Perfect for dipping! The crispy, buttery goodness of garlic bread pairs wonderfully with the creamy soup.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup. Toss in some cherry tomatoes and cucumbers for added crunch.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers can add an earthy element to your meal while providing additional nutrients.
• Cheesy quesadillas: Quick and easy, these cheesy delights are great for dipping into your soup. Simply fill tortillas with cheese (and veggies if you’d like) and grill until golden brown.

Enjoy every spoonful of this delightful Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup, surrounded by good company and hearty sides!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch and store it for later, making weeknight dinners a breeze.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover soup in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Make sure to cool the soup to room temperature before sealing it in the container.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer it to freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Label with the date for easy tracking!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If the soup thickens too much during storage, add a splash of broth or cream while reheating to reach your desired consistency.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this recipe.

Can I use different types of sausage in Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with chicken sausage, turkey sausage, or even a plant-based option if you prefer. The flavors will still be delicious!

How do I make Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup healthier?

You can reduce calories by using low-fat cream or substituting half-and-half instead of heavy cream. Adding more veggies like zucchini or bell peppers can also boost nutrition without sacrificing flavor.

Can I make Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup vegetarian?

Yes! Simply replace the sausage with your favorite plant-based sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You’ll still enjoy that creamy comfort!

How long does it take to prepare Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup?

The total time is about 30 minutes, including prep and cooking. It’s a quick option for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup as much as I do! It’s a warm hug in a bowl that brings comfort after a long day. Whether you’re sharing it with family or enjoying a quiet night in, this recipe is sure to please. Don’t hesitate to tweak it to your taste, and happy cooking!