If you are craving a comforting bowl that feels like a warm Italian hug, this Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe is exactly what you need. Bursting with savory Italian sausage, pillowy gnocchi, and a luscious creamy broth, this soup elevates simple ingredients into a vibrant, soul-satisfying dish. Whether you’re looking for a cozy weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleaser that impresses with minimal effort, this recipe brings together rich flavors and a texture that will have you going back for seconds in no time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Every ingredient in this soup plays a crucial role, from the hearty sausage that builds depth, to the tender gnocchi adding that perfect chew, and the creamy broth that ties it all together. These staples are refreshingly simple yet essential for capturing the authentic Italian soul of the dish.
- 1 lb Italian beef sausage: Choose quality sausage for bold, savory flavor and a juicy, meaty bite.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch that wakes up the entire soup.
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes: These bring brightness and a subtle acidity to balance the creaminess.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The flavorful base that provides warmth and depth without overpowering other ingredients.
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi: Soft potato dumplings that absorb the soup’s savory goodness perfectly.
- 1 cup heavy cream: This ingredient makes the broth irresistibly creamy and comforting.
- Salt & pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance every flavor in the bowl.
- Optional: spinach or basil for garnish: Fresh greens add a pop of color and a hint of herbal freshness.
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start by heating your pot over medium heat and cooking the Italian beef sausage until it’s fully browned. This step is key for releasing rich, meaty flavors that form the foundation of the soup. Make sure to break up the sausage into small pieces so it cooks evenly and blends beautifully with the other ingredients.
Step 2: Sauté the Garlic
Once the sausage is browned, add the minced garlic and sauté it for about one minute. This quick step infuses the meat with a fragrant garlic aroma that elevates every spoonful of the soup. Watch closely so the garlic doesn’t burn, as you want just that perfect toasted note.
Step 3: Add Tomatoes and Broth
Next, stir in the diced tomatoes along with their juices and pour in the chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, allowing the flavors to combine and the broth to develop a beautiful savory depth. This step turns your pot into the heart of a cozy Italian kitchen.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi to the boiling soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually just a few minutes. The gnocchi puff up as they cook, soaking up the broth while adding that wonderfully tender bite we all love. It’s what makes this soup stand out from ordinary fare.
Step 5: Stir in the Cream
Lower the heat and gently stir in the heavy cream. Let the soup simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the cream to enrich the broth and create that signature silky, luscious texture. This is the moment your soup truly becomes creamy perfection.
Step 6: Season and Garnish
Season with salt and freshly ground pepper to your liking. If you like, garnish with fresh spinach or basil to add a fresh green touch and an herbal lift. These simple garnishes bring a little brightness and contrast to the warmth and creaminess of the soup.
How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh herbs like basil or a handful of baby spinach are perfect garnishes for this soup. They don’t just add color and visual appeal; they deliver a refreshing herbal note that balances the richness. Even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese can elevate it to the next level.
Side Dishes
Pair this creamy, hearty soup with crusty Italian bread or garlic breadsticks for dipping. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette also complements the richness well, adding a crisp, peppery contrast. These sides round out the meal beautifully without stealing the spotlight.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve the soup in rustic bread bowls or large, shallow bowls that invite generous ladling and sharing. You can also drizzle a little olive oil or a touch of chili oil on top to add a glossy finish and hint of spice. Presentation transforms this comforting dish into an experience.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve the flavors and texture. When consuming leftovers, you might notice the gnocchi absorb more broth, so adding a splash of broth or cream when reheating helps bring it back to life.
Freezing
While cream-based soups can sometimes separate when frozen, this Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe freezes surprisingly well. Portion it into freezer-safe containers and be sure to thaw it overnight in the fridge before reheating. To maintain texture, consider undercooking the gnocchi slightly before freezing.
Reheating
Reheat gently over medium-low heat on the stove, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Adding a little extra broth or cream helps restore the silky soup consistency. Avoid boiling to prevent the cream from curdling and to keep the gnocchi tender and intact.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian beef sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option and will work well in this soup. Just make sure it’s seasoned with Italian spices to maintain that authentic flavor profile.
Is there a vegetarian version of this soup?
You can swap out the sausage for plant-based Italian sausage or sautéed mushrooms and add extra vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers to keep the soup hearty and flavorful.
Can I make this soup gluten-free?
Yes! Simply use gluten-free gnocchi, which you can find at many grocery stores or specialty shops. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free.
What can I use if I don’t have heavy cream?
You can substitute half-and-half or whole milk for a lighter option, but the soup won’t be as rich. For a dairy-free version, coconut milk can work but will add a distinct flavor.
How spicy is this soup?
This soup has a mild, comforting heat from the Italian sausage but isn’t spicy. You can add crushed red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce if you prefer more kick.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly special about a bowl of warm, creamy soup that brings people together, and this Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe does just that with every spoonful. Easy to prepare, rich in flavor, and endlessly satisfying, it’s a recipe you’ll want to keep close by for any time you need a delicious, cozy meal. Give it a try and discover your new favorite soul-soothing dinner!
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Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is a hearty and comforting dish featuring flavorful Italian beef sausage, tender gnocchi, and a rich creamy tomato broth. Ready in just 30 minutes, this soup combines savory garlic, diced tomatoes, and chicken broth with a touch of heavy cream for a smooth finish. Perfect for a cozy weeknight meal, it can be garnished with fresh spinach or basil for added color and freshness.
Ingredients
Sausage and Aromatics
- 1 lb Italian beef sausage
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Base
- 1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken broth
Gnocchi and Cream
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
Seasoning and Garnish
- Salt & pepper to taste
- Optional: spinach or basil for garnish
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a large pot, cook the Italian beef sausage over medium heat until browned and cooked through, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks to ensure even browning.
- Sauté Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the browned sausage and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant, being careful not to burn the garlic.
- Add Tomatoes and Broth: Stir in the diced tomatoes with their juices and the chicken broth. Increase heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Cook Gnocchi: Once boiling, add the gnocchi to the pot and cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes, until the gnocchi float to the surface and are tender.
- Add Cream and Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, stir in the heavy cream, and let the soup simmer gently for about 5 minutes to meld the flavors together.
- Season and Garnish: Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste. Optionally, garnish with fresh spinach leaves or torn basil for a burst of freshness before serving.
Notes
- You can substitute Italian pork sausage for beef sausage if preferred.
- For a lighter version, use half-and-half instead of heavy cream.
- Spinach and basil not only add flavor but also provide a nice color contrast when serving.
- Make sure to cook the gnocchi just until they float to avoid overcooking and becoming mushy.
- This soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to prevent the cream from curdling.
