Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Discover the rich, hearty flavors of Sausage Gnocchi Soup, an easy, comforting meal perfect for cozy nights and satisfying hunger. This delightful soup combines savory sausage, pillowy gnocchi, fresh vegetables, and fragrant herbs to create a dish that warms your soul and fills your kitchen with irresistible aromas. Whether you’re craving a quick family dinner or a satisfying bowl to unwind with, Sausage Gnocchi Soup is an unbeatable choice for comfort food lovers everywhere.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Ultimate Comfort: The creamy broth with tender gnocchi and sausage creates a soothing, hearty meal that feels like a warm hug.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want delicious without the fuss.
• Versatile Ingredients: You can customize it with whatever fresh vegetables or sausage types you have on hand.
• Nutritious and Balanced: Loaded with protein, veggies, and satisfying carbs that keep you energized and full.
• Family Friendly: It appeals to both kids and adults, making it a great meal for sharing.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Each ingredient in Sausage Gnocchi Soup plays a vital role in building its layered taste, texture, and vibrant color. From the sausage’s bold notes to the fluffy gnocchi and garden-fresh greens, these essentials come together in perfect harmony.

• Italian sausage: Adds savory, spiced richness—use mild or spicy based on your preference.
• Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy potato dumplings that soak up all the delicious broth flavors.
• Onion and garlic: The aromatic foundation that infuses every bite with depth.
• Carrots and celery: Classic soup vegetables that add gentle sweetness and crunch.
• Spinach or kale: Fresh greens for a pop of color and nutrients.
• Chicken or vegetable broth: Creates the warm, flavorful liquid base.
• Heavy cream or half-and-half: Provides luscious creaminess without overpowering.
• Parmesan cheese: Adds a nutty finish and enhances umami flavors.
• Olive oil and seasonings: Essential for sautéing and seasoning the soup perfectly.

Variations for Sausage Gnocchi Soup

This comforting recipe is incredibly flexible, giving you plenty of ways to tailor Sausage Gnocchi Soup to your own taste or dietary needs. Feel free to experiment with additional ingredients or swaps to keep things exciting every time.

• Vegetarian Swap: Replace sausage with mushrooms or plant-based crumbles for a meatless version.
• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or chipotle for an extra punch of heat.
• Cheese Variety: Substitute Parmesan with Pecorino Romano or Asiago for unique flavor notes.
• Different Greens: Try swiss chard, mustard greens, or arugula instead of spinach or kale.
• Broth Choice: Use beef broth for richer depth or low-sodium broth for a lighter version.

How to Make Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Brown the Sausage

Start by heating olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon, and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Remove sausage and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics and Vegetables

In the same pot, add diced onions, carrots, and celery, cooking until softened, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in chicken or vegetable broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any browned bits. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

Add the gnocchi to the simmering broth and cook until they float to the surface, indicating they are ready, usually 2-3 minutes.

Step 5: Combine and Finish

Return the sausage to the pot. Stir in fresh spinach or kale and cook until wilted. Pour in the cream and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese, stirring gently until warmed through and creamy. Season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.

Pro Tips for Making Sausage Gnocchi Soup

• Choose Quality Sausage: High-quality Italian sausage enhances the overall flavor and texture.
• Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Cook gnocchi just until they float to avoid mushy texture.
• Layer Flavors: Sautéing your vegetables properly helps build a rich, complex broth.
• Use Fresh Herbs: Adding fresh basil, parsley, or thyme brightens the soup.
• Control Creaminess: Adjust cream amount depending on whether you prefer a lighter or richer soup.

How to Serve Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes

Top your soup with freshly grated Parmesan, a sprinkle of chopped fresh herbs like parsley or basil, and a drizzle of good olive oil to add freshness and enhance its visual appeal.

Side Dishes

Serve with crusty bread, garlic knots, or a simple green salad to round out the meal and soak up every last bit of that luscious soup.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving in mini bread bowls for an eye-catching presentation or garnish with crispy fried sage leaves for added texture and flavor contrast.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Keep leftover Sausage Gnocchi Soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days to maintain its fresh flavors and texture.

Freezing

While gnocchi texture may change when frozen, you can freeze the broth and sausage mixture separately for up to 2 months and add fresh gnocchi when reheating.

Reheating

Gently warm the soup on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking, and add a splash of broth or water if it thickens too much.

FAQs

Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?

Yes! Turkey sausage is a leaner alternative that still adds great flavor to Sausage Gnocchi Soup without sacrificing the delicious taste.

Is gnocchi gluten-free?

Traditional gnocchi is made from potatoes and flour, which usually contains gluten, but you can find or make gluten-free gnocchi options to fit dietary needs.

Can I make this soup vegan?

Absolutely! Use plant-based sausage, vegetable broth, dairy-free cream substitutes, and vegan gnocchi to create a vegan-friendly version full of flavor.

How spicy is the soup?

The spice level depends on the type of sausage you choose; mild Italian sausage makes for a gentle warmth, while spicy versions add a welcome kick.

What’s the best way to reheat leftover Sausage Gnocchi Soup?

Warm it slowly on the stove, stirring occasionally, to preserve the texture of the gnocchi and prevent the cream from separating.

Final Thoughts

Sausage Gnocchi Soup is truly the kind of dish that turns any ordinary night into something special. Its comforting flavors, quick preparation, and flexibility make it a treasured recipe you’ll return to time and again. Dive into a bowl, share it with loved ones, and let this hearty soup bring warmth and joy to your table.

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