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 meal that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day, you’ve found it! This recipe is a favorite in my home because it’s so easy to whip up yet impressively delicious. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something satisfying without spending hours in the kitchen.

Whether it’s a family gathering or just a cozy night in, this soup brings everyone together. Imagine enjoying a bowl of this creamy goodness while sharing stories around the table. Trust me, once you try this Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup, it’ll become a go-to recipe that warms both your belly and your heart.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Family-Friendly: The rich flavors and creamy texture are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters.
• Comforting and Hearty: With gnocchi and sausage simmered in a creamy broth, every spoonful is pure comfort.
• Flexible Ingredients: Feel free to adjust the veggies or swap out the sausage for your family’s favorites!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: This soup keeps well in the fridge, so you can always have leftovers ready for lunch or dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Soup

• 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! You can easily make adjustments based on what you have on hand or personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use chicken or turkey sausage for a lighter option that still packs flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped bell peppers or zucchini to add extra nutrition.
• Go dairy-free: Replace heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter and dairy-free version.
• Spice it up: Add red pepper flakes to give your soup an extra kick!

How to Make Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Heat a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and cook, breaking it up as it browns. This step is crucial because it allows all those delicious flavors to develop. Once cooked through, drain any excess fat and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Veggies

In the same pot, sauté the garlic and carrots for about 3 minutes until tender. Sautéing brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to your soup.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Pour in the broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Add the Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the top. Floating gnocchi means they’re perfectly cooked—soft yet firm!

Step 5: Stir in Spinach and Cream

Add the spinach and heavy cream, letting the spinach wilt while the cream thickens the soup. The combination of these ingredients creates that rich, creamy texture we love.

Step 6: Season & Simmer

Return the cooked sausage to the pot and stir in thyme, salt, and pepper. Let everything simmer together for about 5 minutes, allowing time for those flavors to dance together.

Step 7: Serve & Enjoy!

Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs or Parmesan if desired. Enjoy every warm bite of your homemade Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Making this soup is a breeze, but these tips will help you elevate it even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh spinach and high-quality sausage can significantly enhance the flavors of your soup, making it richer and more delicious.

• Adjust the thickness: If you prefer a thicker soup, let it simmer a little longer after adding the cream. This will help concentrate the flavors and create a heartier texture.

• Experiment with spices: Feel free to add other herbs or spices like crushed red pepper for heat or oregano for an Italian twist. This allows you to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

• Make it ahead of time: This soup stores well in the fridge, so consider making a double batch. Just reheat gently on the stove when you’re ready to enjoy it again!

• Serve immediately: Gnocchi tends to absorb liquid as it sits, so it’s best to enjoy this soup right after it’s made for that perfect creamy consistency.

How to Serve Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Presenting your Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup can be just as delightful as preparing it! With the right garnishes and side dishes, you can turn this comforting meal into a feast.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: A sprinkle of chopped parsley or basil adds a pop of color and freshness that brightens up the dish.
• Parmesan cheese: Grated cheese brings a nutty flavor that perfectly complements the creaminess of the soup—just be sure your cheese fits your dietary preferences!

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Serve warm garlic bread alongside your soup for a crunchy contrast. It’s perfect for dipping!
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with vinaigrette balances the richness of the soup. Use seasonal greens and add some cherry tomatoes for sweetness.
• Roasted vegetables: Roasted seasonal vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers make a colorful and nutritious addition to your meal.
• Quinoa or couscous: These grains can serve as a side dish that absorbs any excess broth while providing additional texture and nutrition.

With these tips and serving suggestions, your Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup is sure to impress family and friends alike! Enjoy every comforting spoonful!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a large batch and store it for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week. Here’s how to properly store your leftovers and keep them fresh.

Storing Leftovers

• Let the soup cool to room temperature before storing.
• Transfer the soup to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing

• Allow the soup to cool completely.
• Pour it into freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• Note: The gnocchi may change texture when frozen, but the flavor will still be delicious!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of broth if needed.
• For microwave reheating, use a microwave-safe bowl and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between.

FAQs

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

Can I use other kinds of sausage in Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to substitute with turkey sausage, chicken sausage, or even plant-based sausage for a lighter or vegetarian option.

How can I make Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup dairy-free?

To make this soup dairy-free, swap out the heavy cream with coconut cream or any non-dairy milk of your choice. Just keep in mind that it may alter the flavor slightly.

Can I add other vegetables to my Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup?

Yes! This recipe is versatile. You can add vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms for extra nutrition and flavor.

Is Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup suitable for meal prep?

Definitely! This soup stores well in the fridge and freezes nicely, making it an excellent option for meal prep.

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

The total time is about 30 minutes from start to finish—perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup warms your heart and fills your kitchen with delightful aromas! It’s such a comforting dish that brings together flavors in a way that’s truly special. Enjoy making this recipe, and don’t hesitate to share your own twists on it. Happy cooking!