Easy Gnocchi Sausage Soup
This creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup is a comforting and flavorful meal that's ready in under an hour. Packed with Italian sausage, tender gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a creamy broth, it's sure to become a family favorite. It's the perfect dish for a cozy night in.
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Measuring spoons
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Ladle
- Bowls for serving
Ingredients
- 1 pound Italian sausage, removed from casing sweet, mild, or hot
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 2 stalks celery, diced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 6 cups chicken broth low sodium
- 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes optional
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 5 ounces fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for serving
Instructions
- Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat. Add the Italian sausage and cook, breaking it up with a spoon, until browned. Drain off any excess grease.
- Add the chopped onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook until the vegetables are softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic!
- Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced tomatoes (undrained), Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes (if using). Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Bring the soup to a simmer, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
- Stir in the gnocchi and cook according to the package directions, usually about 3-5 minutes, or until they float to the surface.
- Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and spinach. Cook until the spinach is wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
- Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese.
- Ladle the Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup into bowls.
- Garnish with extra grated Parmesan cheese and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes (optional).
- Serve immediately and enjoy the warm, comforting goodness!
Notes
For a richer flavor, brown the sausage well and don't skip the mirepoix (onion, carrots, and celery). Simmering the soup allows the flavors to meld together. Add fresh herbs like basil or parsley for a brighter taste. To store leftovers, keep in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if needed to thin it out.