Why You’ll Love This Foolproof Sausage Gnocchi Soup
- Ready in just 35-40 minutes, perfect for those nights when you want something homemade but time isn’t on your side
- The combination of Italian sausage and pillowy gnocchi creates a hearty, satisfying meal that feels like a warm hug
- One-pot cooking means minimal cleanup, ideal for busy weeknights
- Incredibly versatile recipe that’s forgiving if you need to make substitutions
Key Ingredients for the Perfect Sausage Gnocchi Soup (A Deep Dive)
Choosing Your Sausage
Italian-style beef sausage is the star of this soup, providing rich flavor and satisfying texture. While the recipe calls for beef sausage, you could use pork Italian sausage as well. If you prefer a lighter option, turkey or chicken Italian sausage works too, though the soup might be slightly less rich.
Gnocchi Deep Dive: Fresh, Frozen, or Shelf-Stable?
Any type of gnocchi works well in this recipe. Shelf-stable gnocchi is my go-to for convenience, but fresh gnocchi creates an incredibly tender texture. The key is adding it at the right time and avoiding overcooking. Follow package instructions for cooking time, as it varies by type.
The Magic of Cream (and How to Prevent Curdling)
Double cream gives this soup its luxurious texture. Our recipe method prevents curdling by adding the cream after the soup has simmered, allowing it to blend smoothly with the other ingredients. The result is a perfectly creamy, never grainy, texture.
Flavor Boosters and Essential Veggies
The holy trinity of onion, carrot, and celery creates a flavorful base, while Italian seasoning and red chili flakes add warmth and depth. Fresh garlic adds another layer of flavor that makes this soup truly special.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven (for even heat distribution)
- Sharp knife for chopping vegetables
- Wooden spoon or spatula for breaking up sausage
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Grater for the Parmesan cheese
Mise en Place for Stress-Free Cooking
- Dice onion, carrot, and celery before starting
- Mince garlic and set aside
- Remove sausage from casings and break into chunks
- Measure out all liquid ingredients
- Have gnocchi and spinach ready to add at the end
Ingredients
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Instructions
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Making Your Sausage Gnocchi Soup Your Way (Variations & Adaptations)
Dairy-Free & Gluten-Free Options
For dairy-free, substitute the cream with full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream. Use gluten-free gnocchi and verify your stock is gluten-free for a celiac-friendly version.
Low-Carb Swaps
Try cauliflower gnocchi or simply add extra vegetables instead of regular gnocchi. Zucchini noodles work well too, just add them in the final few minutes of cooking.
Vegetable & Herb Additions
Feel free to add mushrooms when sautéing the vegetables, or swap spinach for kale (add kale earlier in the cooking process). Fresh basil or thyme make wonderful additions just before serving.
Broth-Based vs. Tomato-Based (Your Choice!)
For a tomato version, add 2 tablespoons of tomato paste with the stock. This creates a beautiful rose-colored soup with a slight tang.
Beyond the Stovetop: Instant Pot & Slow Cooker Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Instant Pot Method
- Use sauté function to brown sausage and vegetables
- Add broth and seasonings
- Pressure cook for 5 minutes
- Quick release, add cream and gnocchi
- Use sauté function until gnocchi is tender
Slow Cooker Method
- Brown sausage and vegetables on stovetop
- Transfer to slow cooker with broth and seasonings
- Cook on low for 6-8 hours
- Add cream and gnocchi in final 30 minutes
Troubleshooting Common Sausage Gnocchi Soup Questions
My Soup is Too Thin/Thick!
Add more cream or stock to adjust consistency. For thickening, let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes.
Help! My Gnocchi is Mushy!
Add gnocchi only when ready to serve and cook just until they float to the surface.
My Cream Curdled!
Ensure soup isn’t boiling when adding cream. If needed, temper the cream by stirring in a little hot broth before adding to the pot.
How Do I Adjust Seasoning?
Taste before adding spinach and Parmesan. Add salt and pepper gradually, and remember the cheese adds saltiness too.
Make-Ahead, Storage, and Reheating Tips
Store soup without gnocchi for up to 3 days in the refrigerator. When reheating, warm gently on stovetop and add fresh gnocchi. Avoid freezing cream-based soups as they can separate when thawed.
What to Serve with Your Creamy Sausage Gnocchi Soup
- Crusty artisan bread for dipping
- Light mixed green salad with lemon vinaigrette
- Garlic bread for extra comfort
- A glass of Pinot Grigio pairs beautifully
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I use ground pork instead of Italian sausage?
Yes, but add extra Italian seasoning and fennel seeds to replicate the sausage flavor.
How long does this soup last in the fridge?
Up to 3 days when stored properly in an airtight container.
Can I freeze this soup?
I don’t recommend freezing due to the cream base and gnocchi texture. If needed, freeze without cream and gnocchi, adding fresh when reheating.
This Sausage Gnocchi Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s a warm, comforting hug in a bowl that brings my family together on busy weeknights. I’d love to see your version! Share your photos on Instagram using #AishaRecipes, or leave a comment below telling me how you made it your own. Looking for more comforting dinner ideas? Check out my collection of 30-minute meals that bring joy to your table without the stress.
Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot and brown the Italian-style beef sausage for 4-5 minutes, crumbling it as it cooks.
- Add onion, carrot, and celery; cook for 2-3 minutes. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and red chili flakes, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
- Stir in chicken broth and apple cider vinegar, cooking for one minute, then add chicken stock, bring to a boil, and simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in double cream, then add gnocchi and cook for 2-3 minutes or as specified on the package.
- Finally, stir in baby spinach and grated Parmesan, season to taste, and serve immediately.
