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 warm hug in a bowl on a chilly evening, this recipe is just what you need. It’s one of those meals that brings the whole family together, perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings with friends. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up, making it a go-to favorite in my kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: This soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for those hectic days when time is short.
• Family-friendly flavor: With its creamy texture and savory sausage, every spoonful is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Hearty and filling: Packed with gnocchi and veggies, this dish is not only comforting but also satisfying enough to be a meal on its own.
• Flexible ingredients: Feel free to mix and match the vegetables or swap out the protein to suit your family’s tastes!
• Make-ahead convenience: This soup stores well in the fridge, so you can easily prepare it in advance for a quick reheat later.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You’ll find that these ingredients are simple yet wholesome! They come together beautifully to create a rich and creamy soup that feels like home.

Ingredients:
– 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

One of the things I love most about this Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup is how flexible it is! You can easily adjust it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using ground turkey or chicken sausage for a lighter option that still packs great flavor.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some chopped kale, zucchini, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you love heat, add some crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños for an extra kick!
• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free gnocchi to make this recipe suitable for those with gluten sensitivities.

How to Make Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Cook the Sausage

Start by heating a large pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and break it up as it cooks until it’s browned and fully cooked. This step is crucial because browning the sausage adds depth of flavor to the soup. Once done, drain any excess fat and set the sausage aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot, toss in the minced garlic and diced carrots. Sauté them for about 3 minutes until they become tender. This step brings out their natural sweetness and infuses your soup with wonderful aromas.

Step 3: Simmer with Broth

Next, pour in the chicken or vegetable broth. Bring the mixture up to a simmer—this is where all those flavors start melding together beautifully!

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

Now it’s time to add the gnocchi! Cook them for about 2-3 minutes until they float to the top. Floating gnocchi means they’re perfectly cooked!

Step 5: Add Spinach and Cream

Stir in your fresh spinach along with heavy cream. Let everything simmer gently until the spinach wilts down and the cream thickens up your soup into that luscious texture we all love.

Step 6: Final Touches

Return your cooked sausage back into the pot. Stir in dried thyme along with salt and pepper to taste. Let everything simmer together for another five minutes—this allows all those lovely flavors to combine even more.

Step 7: Serve It Up!

Serve hot, garnished with extra herbs or grated Parmesan if desired. Each bowl of this Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup will surely bring warmth to your heart!

Pro Tips for Making Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup

This soup is not only delicious but also easy to customize. Here are some helpful tips to ensure your Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup turns out perfectly every time!

• Choose the right sausage: Opt for either mild or spicy Italian sausage based on your preference. The sausage flavor significantly influences the overall taste of the soup, so pick one that matches your heat tolerance.

• Don’t skip the sautéing: Sautéing the garlic and carrots before adding the broth enhances their flavors and adds depth to the soup. This step helps create a more aromatic base for your dish.

• Cook gnocchi until they float: Gnocchi should be cooked until they float to the surface. This indicates they’re done and ensures they have a delightful texture that complements the creaminess of the soup.

• Add spinach at the end: Adding spinach towards the end of cooking preserves its vibrant color and nutrients. It also keeps it from becoming overly wilted and mushy, maintaining a fresh component in your hearty soup.

• Adjust seasoning to taste: Different brands of broth can vary in saltiness, so it’s always a good idea to taste and adjust salt and pepper levels before serving. This ensures you get that perfect flavor balance!

How to Serve Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Serving this delicious soup is just as important as making it! A few thoughtful touches can elevate your dining experience and impress your guests.

Garnishes

• Fresh herbs: Chopped parsley or basil adds a burst of freshness on top of each bowl, enhancing both presentation and flavor.
• Grated cheese alternative: For those who prefer non-dairy options, sprinkle some grated plant-based cheese for a creamy finish without any animal products.

Side Dishes

• Garlic bread: Perfect for dipping, garlic bread is an irresistible pairing that complements the creamy texture of the soup.
• Mixed green salad: A light salad with a citrus vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup, balancing your meal beautifully.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add another layer of nutrition and flavor, making your meal even more satisfying.
• Quinoa or rice cakes: These can provide an additional hearty element if you want something more filling alongside your soup without overpowering it.

Enjoy every spoonful of your Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup, knowing you’ve created a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy its comforting flavors throughout the week. Here’s how to store, freeze, and reheat your delicious creation.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Let the soup cool down before pouring it into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Leave some space at the top of the container as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Freeze for up to 3 months. For best quality, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Heat gently on the stove over medium heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.
• If using a microwave, heat in short intervals, stirring in between until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delightful recipe!

Can I make Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup without sausage?

Absolutely! You can substitute the sausage with plant-based sausage or add more vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini for extra flavor and texture.

How long does Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup last in the fridge?

When stored properly in an airtight container, this soup will last up to 3 days in the refrigerator. Just be sure to check for freshness!

Can I use a different type of broth in this recipe?

Yes! Feel free to use vegetable broth if you prefer a vegetarian option or want a lighter flavor profile. Chicken broth is also great if you’re looking for a heartier base.

Is there a dairy-free option for this Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup?

Definitely! You can replace heavy cream with coconut cream or a dairy-free alternative like cashew cream for a deliciously creamy texture without dairy.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in preparing this Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup! It’s a wonderful dish that brings warmth and comfort to any meal. Whether you’re enjoying it alone or sharing it with loved ones, each spoonful is sure to be satisfying. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try this recipe—let me know how it turns out!