Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe

If you’re searching for a soul-warming, cozy meal that’s surprisingly easy to whip up on any night, you’re in the right place. This Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe delivers rich flavors, tender gnocchi, and that perfect balance of comforting creaminess infused with Italian herbs. Trust me, once you try this, it’ll become a fast favorite in your dinner rotation. Let me show you how simple and satisfying this hearty soup can be.

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Ingredients & Why They Work

Every ingredient in this Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe has a purpose, from the savory sausage to the tender gnocchi. Picking fresh veggies and good-quality sausage takes this soup from good to unforgettable.

• Olive oil: This forms the flavorful base for browning the sausage and sautéing veggies, adding subtle richness.
• Italian sausage: Choose authentic Italian sausage with herbs for that classic flavor punch; removing the casing helps it crumble nicely.
• Onion, carrot, celery: The holy trinity of soups adds sweetness, texture, and depth.
• Garlic: It amplifies the savory notes and aroma—one of my favorite kitchen friends.
• Italian seasoning & red chilli flakes: Essential for warming spices and just enough gentle heat without overpowering.
• Dry white wine: Adds acidity and complexity that brightens the soup, but don’t worry, it cooks off.
• Chicken stock: A savory broth base that ties all the ingredients together and makes it feel like a meal.
• Double cream: Gives the soup that dreamy, silky finish that gnocchi soak up perfectly.
• Gnocchi: These pillowy potato dumplings are essential for that tender, chewy bite that stands out in the soup.
• Baby spinach: Adds freshness and a pop of color while boosting nutrition without changing the flavor much.
• Parmesan: The final sprinkle of umami magic to make you say, “Wow, I made this?”

Make It Your Way

I love that this Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe can adapt so easily. I often tweak it depending on what I have on hand or to suit guests’ preferences—you’ll find making it yours makes it even better!

• Add extra veggies: I sometimes throw in chopped mushrooms or zucchini for more texture and nutrition.
• Spice it up: If you’re a heat lover like me, add more red chili flakes or a splash of hot sauce.
• Make it lighter: Swap the double cream for half-and-half or coconut milk for a dairy-free twist.
• Use turkey sausage: A leaner alternative that still packs flavor if you want a healthier version.
• Vegetarian option: Omit the sausage and add beans or extra mushrooms for protein.

Step-by-Step: How I Make Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Step 1: Brown the sausage perfectly

Start by heating olive oil in a heavy-bottomed pot over medium-high heat. Add the sausage chunks and cook them for about 4 to 5 minutes, stirring and breaking them up with your spoon. You want them nicely browned but not burnt—this caramelization builds so much flavor, so take your time here. The scent alone is enough to make your kitchen feel like an Italian trattoria!

Step 2: Sauté your vegetables for flavor

Next, toss in the finely diced onion, carrot, and celery. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion turns translucent and the veggies soften just a bit. Then add minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red chili flakes. Stir them for another minute; you’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells irresistibly fragrant. This mixture forms the heart of your soup.

Step 3: Deglaze and simmer

Pour in the dry white wine, stirring well to lift any bits stuck to the pot. Let it cook down for about a minute so the alcohol evaporates but the flavor stays. Then add your chicken stock, bring everything to a boil, and reduce the heat to let it simmer gently for 10 minutes. This step blends all the flavors beautifully and gives the soup body.

Step 4: Cream and gnocchi go in

Once your soup has simmered, stir in the double cream for that silky, luscious texture. Immediately follow with the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions—usually just 2 to 3 minutes until they float to the top, signaling they’re perfectly cooked. This part comes together fast, so keep an eye on it.

Step 5: Finish with spinach and Parmesan

Finally, toss in a handful of fresh baby spinach and sprinkle in the Parmesan. Give it a gentle stir until the spinach wilts and the cheese melts slightly. Season with salt and pepper to taste and serve right away. The freshness from the spinach and the savory sharpness of Parmesan create the perfect balance to the creamy broth.

How to Serve Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Garnishes

I always top my bowl with an extra sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan and a small handful of fresh basil or parsley for that herbaceous pop. A drizzle of good-quality olive oil right before serving also lifts the flavor beautifully. It’s those little finishing touches that make a bowl feel special.

Side Dishes

This soup is hearty but pairs wonderfully with crusty garlic bread or a simple green salad dressed with lemon vinaigrette. I’ve also served it alongside roasted Brussels sprouts for a well-rounded meal. If you want to keep it super simple, a warm baguette is all you need to sop up that luscious broth.

Creative Ways to Present

For a cozy dinner party, I’ve ladled this soup into mini cast iron skillets or rustic bread bowls—fun and comforting! A sprinkle of crunchy toasted pine nuts or a few drops of chili oil take it to the next level when you want to impress without fuss.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

I keep leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Since gnocchi can soak up a lot of liquid, I add a splash of chicken stock or cream when reheating to bring it back to that lovely creamy consistency.

Freezing

This soup freezes well, but I recommend storing the gnocchi separately if possible, especially if homemade. If not, freeze the whole soup in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating gently on the stove.

Reheating

Reheat gently over low heat to prevent the cream from breaking, stirring often. Add a little more broth or cream as needed to loosen the soup. Avoid microwaving if you can, but if you do, stir every 30 seconds to keep it smooth.

FAQs

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe holds a special place in my kitchen because it’s both comforting and quick—two of my favorite things. It’s the kind of dish you can cozy up with on chilly evenings, and I’m confident once you try it, it’ll become a go-to whenever you want a little Italian-inspired magic. Give it a try—you won’t regret it!

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