As the crispness of autumn kicks in, there’s nothing quite like the inviting aroma of a sturdy soup bubbling away on the stove. It evokes memories of cozy evenings spent wrapped in a blanket, sipping something warm while leafing through a favorite book. One soup that stands out in my fall repertoire is definitely Sausage Gnocchi Soup. It’s my go-to recipe when the temperature drops and comfort food calls.

This soup is not just about warmth; it’s about flavor, texture, and, of course, that delicious satisfaction that comes after the first bite. Imagine juicy sausage, fluffy gnocchi, and colorful veggies all swimming in a hearty broth. Seriously, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl! So, grab your cooking apron, and let’s dive into this delightful dish together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Weeknight Dinner: Requires minimal prep and comes together in about 30 minutes!
• Comforting Flavors: Packed with savory sausage and tender gnocchi that’ll hit the spot.
• Budget-Friendly: With affordable ingredients, it’s perfect for any weeknight.
• Customizable: Add your favorite veggies or spices to make it your own!

Ingredients

Before we get started, let’s gather all the essentials for this scrumptious Sausage Gnocchi Soup. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, your choice)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced (fresh garlic adds a punch!)
• 3 carrots, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 2 celery stalks, chopped (about 1 cup)
• 6 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 (16-ounce) package of gnocchi (potato or gluten-free)
• 1 cup kale or spinach, roughly chopped (for that fresh green goodness)
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Optional: grated Parmesan cheese and red pepper flakes for a kick!

Step-by-Step Instructions

It’s time to put on your chef’s hat and get cooking! Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to whip up this Sausage Gnocchi Soup:

1. Heat the Oil: In a large pot over medium heat, add the olive oil. Once it’s shimmering, it’s time to move on to the sausage!
2. Cook the Sausage: Remove the sausage from its casing and crumble it into the pot. Cook until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t forget to break it up with a spoon!
3. Add the Aromatics: Toss in the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5-6 minutes until the vegetables are softened and the kitchen smells heavenly!
4. Pour in the Broth: Carefully add the chicken broth to the pot, stirring to combine everything. Allow it to come to a gentle boil.
5. Add the Gnocchi: Once the broth is boiling, throw in the gnocchi! Let it cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when they float to the top like little pillows of joy!
6. Incorporate the Greens: Add your chopped kale or spinach and season with salt and pepper. Cook for another 1-2 minutes until the greens are wilted and vibrant.
7. Serve and Enjoy: Ladle the soup into bowls, and if you’re feeling fancy, sprinkle with grated Parmesan and a dash of red pepper flakes for those who like a little heat.

Pro Tips & Variations

Now that we’ve unlocked the basic recipe for our Sausage Gnocchi Soup, let’s sprinkle in some fun twists and tips!

• Spice it Up: Want some extra flavor? Add herbs like thyme or rosemary, or even a bay leaf while it’s simmering. It adds such a lovely aroma!
• Vegetarian Option: Swap out the sausage for a plant-based alternative or mushrooms for that umami flavor. You can also boost the veggies with some bell peppers or zucchini!
• Creamy Version: For a creamier soup, stir in about 1 cup of heavy cream or half-and-half right before serving. It adds a luscious touch!
• Make It Spicy: If you like heat, toss in some crushed red pepper flakes or even diced jalapeños!

Serving Suggestions

The Sausage Gnocchi Soup is delightful on its own, but there’s nothing better than pairing it with some crusty bread. Imagine tearing into a warm slice of sourdough, soaking up the broth, or even a side salad for a fresh crunch. And, of course, sipping on a nice glass of red wine or a comforting cup of hot tea makes it all the better. Your cozy evening is about to be elevated!

Storage Tips

If you somehow have leftovers (which is rare, I must say!), you can store your Sausage Gnocchi Soup with ease. Here’s how to keep it fresh:

• Refrigerate: Place in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Just reheat it gently on the stove or in the microwave!
• Freeze: If you want to make it ahead, freeze it without the gnocchi. The gnocchi can get mushy in the freezer. When you’re ready to enjoy, thaw and reheat, then add fresh gnocchi while it simmers.
• Reheat: To reheat, bring it back to a simmer on the stovetop. Stirring occasionally keeps it from sticking!

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this soup?

Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works wonderfully in this recipe. Just add it straight from the freezer into the soup during the cooking process, and they’ll thaw and cook perfectly!

What kind of sausage is best for this soup?

I love using Italian sausage for its robust flavors, but you can go with any ground sausage you prefer. Feel free to experiment with chicken sausage or turkey for a lighter option!

Can I prepare this soup in advance?

You can prep the ingredients ahead of time and store them separately. However, I recommend adding the gnocchi fresh when you’re ready to eat for the best texture!

What if I don’t have chicken broth?

No worries! Vegetable broth can be a great substitute, or even water in a pinch. Just make sure to season it a bit more if you use water.

Can I add other vegetables?

Definitely! This soup is super versatile. Feel free to toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or even mushrooms. Just chop them up and add them with the other vegetables for a delicious treat.

Conclusion

And there you have it, a bowl of cozy, cheesy, and hearty Sausage Gnocchi Soup ready to warm you up! I can’t wait for you to try this recipe and experience the delightful mix of flavors. Remember, cooking is all about joy and bringing people together over a delicious meal.

I’d love to hear how yours turned out! Did you add your twist? Feel free to drop a comment or share a pic of your creation. Happy cooking, friends!