Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe for Cozy Nights

The comforting aroma of a bubbling pot of Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is enough to make anyone weak in the knees. Imagine a symphony of savory Italian sausage mixed with rich, velvety cream, and the delightful pop of tender potato gnocchi. This dish is not just food; it’s an invitation to cozy up on a chilly night with a bowl of pure happiness.

This recipe doesn’t just fill your belly; it wraps you up in a warm hug, reminiscent of family dinners and heartwarming laughter around the table. Whether it’s a rainy day or the kind of night that calls for a Netflix binge, a steaming bowl of this Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup awaits you, promising to deliver warmth and comfort like no other.

Ingredients for Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup:

16 ounces Italian sausage – Choose a flavorful variety; spicy or mild will work wonderfully.
1 medium onion, chopped finely – Adds sweetness and depth to the soup.
2 sticks celery, chopped finely – Provides a subtle crunch and earthy flavor.
2 tablespoons flour – Helps thicken the soup for that creamy texture.
3-4 cloves garlic, minced – Infuses the soup with a delightful aroma and flavor.
4 cups chicken broth – The base that brings everything together; homemade or store-bought works great!
1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes – For a rich, tangy depth that complements the creaminess.
1/2 teaspoon dried oregano – Adds a traditional Italian flavor; feel free to adjust based on your taste.
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes – A dash of heat that adds a lovely kick to the soup.
1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi – The star ingredient, providing texture and heartiness.
1 cup heavy/whipping cream – The key to achieving that luxurious creaminess.
2 cups fresh baby spinach – Not just for color; it also adds nutrition and freshness to the dish.
Salt & pepper to taste – Essential for enhancing all the flavors in the soup.

How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup:

Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a Dutch oven or large soup pot, add the Italian sausage over medium-high heat. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully browned all over, about 7-8 minutes. This step releases those irresistible flavors that will form the base of your soup.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
Once the sausage is browned, remove it from the pot and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about a tablespoon of the sausage fat in the pot and drain any excess. Now, toss in the chopped onion and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until they soften up and start to smell good.

Step 3: Add Garlic and Flour
Stir in the minced garlic and sprinkle the flour on top. Cook for about one minute, stirring all the while until the flour is golden and fragrant. This is where the magic of thickening begins.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes
Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring as you go to ensure the flour is well incorporated. Next, add the crushed tomatoes, dried oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Don’t forget to bring the sausage back into the mix. Increase the heat to high and let everything come to a gentle boil.

Step 5: Add the Gnocchi and Cream
Once it reaches a boil, carefully stir in the uncooked gnocchi and the heavy cream. Reduce the heat to a gentle simmer and cook for about 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Keep an eye on it to ensure the gnocchi doesn’t stick to the bottom of the pot. If you feel like it’s getting too thick, a splash of chicken broth or cream can help loosen things up.

Step 6: Stir in Spinach and Season
Finally, toss in the fresh spinach and give it a good stir to let it wilt. Season with salt and pepper to your liking. And there you have it—your cozy bowl of Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is ready to serve!

Each spoonful delivers a delightful blend of rich flavors complemented by the lush texture of gnocchi. Serve this incredible soup with a crusty bread for dipping, and let it transport you to the heart of Italy, one creamy bite at a time. You’ll be glad you made a big pot because leftovers—if there are any—are just as divine!

Perfecting Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Cooking Process

Start by browning the Italian sausage first to develop robust flavors. While the sausage cooks, chop your veggies, and have your broth ready to pour in. This way, you’ll keep everything moving smoothly and ensure the soup is packed with taste.

Add Your Touch to Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Feel free to customize this soup by swapping the Italian sausage for a turkey or plant-based alternative if you’re looking for a lighter version. Add more veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for an extra nutrient boost. If you prefer a spicier kick, increase the crushed red pepper flakes.

Storing & Reheating Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Store leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to help thin it out, as the gnocchi may absorb some liquid during storage.

A friend once told me that this soup was so delicious; it inspired her to host a dinner party just to share it with others. How’s that for motivation?

FAQs About Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup

What is Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup?

Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is a hearty, satisfying dish made with tender gnocchi, flavorful Italian sausage, and a rich, creamy broth. This culinary delight combines multiple ingredients such as vegetables, crushed tomatoes, and spices, resulting in a comforting soup perfect for cozy nights. With each spoonful, you experience a delightful medley of flavors, complemented by fresh baby spinach for a touch of color and nutrition. It’s the kind of dish that warms you from the inside and makes meal times feel special.

How do I make Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup less spicy?

If you’re looking for a milder version of Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup, simply reduce or omit the crushed red pepper flakes. You can also select a mild Italian sausage instead of hot or spicy varieties. Another helpful tip is to incorporate more creamy ingredients, such as additional heavy cream, which can help tone down the spice without compromising the soup’s overall flavor. Balancing the dish’s elements will still keep it delicious and enjoyable for everyone.

Can I use a different protein for Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! While traditional recipes call for Italian sausage, you can substitute it with chicken, turkey, or even plant-based sausage for a vegetarian option. Each alternative will bring its unique flavor profile, altering the dish slightly. If you choose to use a leaner meat, consider adding more seasoning to enhance the flavor. Keeping the foundational ingredients intact ensures that your Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup remains delicious, regardless of the protein you choose.

How should I store and reheat Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup?

To store your Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup, place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. When reheating, you may notice the gnocchi absorb some liquid, making the soup thicker than when freshly made. To restore its creamy consistency, simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream while gently warming it on the stove. Stir frequently to prevent sticking and ensure even heating, and enjoy your flavorful soup all over again!

Conclusion for Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup

The Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is an exceptional dish that combines comforting flavors and satisfying textures. By following simple steps and utilizing versatile ingredients, you can create a meal that delights the taste buds and warms the heart. Whether it’s a weeknight gathering or a special occasion, this soup is sure to impress. Remember, it’s all about personal touches, so feel free to customize the recipe to make the Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup your own. Enjoy!

Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup

This Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is a comforting dish perfect for cozy nights, combining rich flavors and hearty ingredients.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 6 servings

Course: Dinner Recipes

Cuisine: Italian

Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes

Ingredients

  

1x2x3x?

• 16 ounces Italian sausage
• 1 medium onion, chopped finely
• 2 sticks celery, chopped finely
• 2 tablespoons flour
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 can (28 ounce) crushed tomatoes
• 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
• 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
• 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
• 2 cups fresh baby spinach
• Salt & pepper to taste

Equipment

• Dutch oven
• Large soup pot

Method

 

1. Add the sausage meat to a Dutch oven/large soup pot. Sauté over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the sausage is browned all over (about 7-8 mins).
2. Remove the sausage from the pot and transfer to a paper towel lined plate. Leave about a tablespoon of the fat in the pot (drain any excess).
3. Add the onion and celery to the pot and cook for about 5 minutes.
4. Add the flour and garlic and cook for about one minute, stirring constantly.
5. Slowly add the chicken broth and stir until the flour has been incorporated.
6. Add the canned tomatoes, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes to the pot. Also add the sausage back in. Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a gentle boil.
7. Once it's boiling, add the gnocchi and cream. Reduce the heat so it's gently simmering. Cook for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure the gnocchi isn't sticking to the bottom of the pot. If needed, add another splash of chicken broth and/or cream to thin the soup out a bit more.
8. Stir in the spinach (if using) and season with salt & pepper to taste.

Nutrition

Serving: 1bowl

Notes

Feel free to customize this soup by swapping the Italian sausage for turkey or plant-based alternatives, and add more veggies like mushrooms or zucchini for a nutrient boost.

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