When the weather cools down and you crave something warm, hearty, and deeply satisfying, few things hit the spot like a steaming bowl of Sausage and Vegetable Gnocchi Soup. This dish is the perfect blend of savory sausage, tender vegetables, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy, flavorful broth. Whether you’re preparing it for a cozy family dinner or meal-prepping for the week ahead, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, making it perfect for weeknights.
- Hearty and Satisfying: Loaded with protein, veggies, and gnocchi for a complete meal.
- One-Pot Wonder: Minimal cleanup with maximum flavor.
- Versatile: Easily adaptable with different vegetables, meats, or even a dairy-free option.
Now, let’s dive into this delicious and comforting dish!
Ingredients You’ll Need
For the Soup:
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, based on preference)
- 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, sliced
- 1 zucchini, diced
- 1 red bell pepper, diced
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half for a lighter option)
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- ½ tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale, chopped
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for serving
For Garnishing:
- Fresh basil or parsley
- Extra Parmesan cheese
- Crusty bread for dipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
In a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage, breaking it up into crumbles with a wooden spoon. Continue cooking until browned and no longer pink. If there is excess grease, drain it, leaving about a tablespoon for flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
If needed, add 1 tbsp of olive oil to the pot. Toss in the diced onion, carrots, celery, bell pepper, and zucchini. Sauté for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally until the vegetables begin to soften. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
Step 3: Build the Broth
Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juices) and chicken broth. Stir well, making sure to scrape up any flavorful bits from the bottom of the pot. Add in the Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Bring everything to a gentle boil.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Reduce the heat to a simmer and carefully add the gnocchi. Let them cook for about 5 minutes, or until they float to the surface and become tender.
Step 5: Add the Cream and Greens
Stir in the heavy cream and chopped spinach (or kale). Let the soup simmer for another 2-3 minutes until the greens wilt and the flavors meld together.
Step 6: Finish and Serve
Stir in Parmesan cheese, taste, and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot, garnished with extra Parmesan and fresh basil or parsley. Pair with crusty bread for the ultimate cozy meal.
Tips for the Best Gnocchi Soup
- Choose Quality Sausage: Opt for good-quality Italian sausage to enhance the soup’s depth of flavor.
- Sauté for Flavor: Taking time to properly sauté the vegetables adds richness to the broth.
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly, so remove from heat as soon as it’s tender.
- Make It Lighter: Swap heavy cream for half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative like coconut milk.
Variations and Substitutions
Make It Dairy-Free:
- Replace the heavy cream with coconut milk or a cashew-based cream.
- Use nutritional yeast instead of Parmesan for a cheesy flavor.
Vegetarian Version:
- Swap sausage for plant-based crumbles or add more beans like cannellini or chickpeas.
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Spicy Kick:
- Use hot Italian sausage and increase the red pepper flakes.
- Add a dash of cayenne pepper for extra heat.
More Vegetables:
- Stir in mushrooms, corn, or peas for added texture and nutrition.
Storing and Reheating
Refrigeration: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. The flavors deepen overnight, making it even better the next day!
Freezing: Cream-based soups can separate when frozen, but if you plan to freeze, leave out the cream and add it when reheating.
Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, add a splash of broth or cream to bring it back to its original consistency.
What to Serve with Sausage and Vegetable Gnocchi Soup
- Crusty Bread: A must-have for soaking up the creamy broth.
- Side Salad: A simple green salad balances the richness of the soup.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Elevate the meal with warm, buttery breadsticks.
Final Thoughts
Sausage and Vegetable Gnocchi Soup is a comforting, crowd-pleasing dish that’s easy to make and incredibly satisfying. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s perfect for chilly evenings, busy weeknights, or meal-prep lunches.
So, grab your favorite pot, gather your ingredients, and make this delicious soup today! Don’t forget to serve it with a sprinkle of Parmesan and a slice of crusty bread. Enjoy!
Have you tried this recipe? Let me know in the comments how it turned out! I’d love to hear your variations and serving ideas. Happy cooking! 🍲😊