Savory Sausage Gnocchi Soup: Quick & Delicious Recipe Guide

 

Oh, the joy of a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening! It takes me back to my grandmother’s kitchen, where the comforting scents of simmering meats and fresh herbs would wrap around me like a cozy blanket. Her kitchen was the heart of our home, where we’d share stories and laughter over hearty meals. One of my absolute favorites was her delightful sausage and gnocchi soup—a rich, comforting dish that feels like a hug in a bowl. Today, I want to share this special recipe with you! Trust me, once you make this Sausage Gnocchi Soup, it will become a staple in your own kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• It’s an easy weeknight dinner that’s ready in about 30 minutes!
• Perfectly hearty and comforting, ideal for those chilly evenings.
• Uses budget-friendly ingredients you might already have.
• Rich, savory flavors, thanks to the sausage and cozy herbs.
• Great for meal prep; just reheat and enjoy throughout the week.

Ingredients

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful Sausage Gnocchi Soup:

• 1 pound sausage (Italian sausage works best; feel free to choose spicy or sweet based on your preference)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 2 carrots, peeled and sliced
• 2 celery ribs, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced (fresh is best; more punch than powdered!)
• 4 cups chicken broth (homemade or store-bought)
• 1 (16-ounce) package potato gnocchi
• 1 cup kale or spinach (for that pop of color and added nutrition)
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Parmesan cheese (for serving; optional but highly recommended!)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Let’s get started on this delicious creation!

1. Brown the sausage. In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Crumble the sausage into the pot and cook, stirring occasionally, until it’s browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t rush this step; browning releases so much flavor!
2. Add the veggies. Toss in the diced onion, sliced carrots, and celery. Sauté for another 5 minutes until the vegetables are softened. Your kitchen should start smelling amazing right about now!
3. Stir in the garlic. Add the minced garlic and cook for about 1 minute, just until fragrant. Remember, garlic can burn easily, so keep an eye on it!
4. Pour in the broth. Carefully add the chicken broth, stirring to combine everything. Bring it to a gentle simmer. Enjoy that bubbling sound—it’s a promise of deliciousness!
5. Add gnocchi. Gently toss in the gnocchi and let it cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes. When they float to the top, that’s when they’re done!
6. Add the greens. Stir in the kale or spinach and allow it to wilt for a couple of minutes. This adds a wonderful color and flavor! Season with oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper to taste.
7. Serve and enjoy! Ladle the soup into bowls and sprinkle with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if you desire. Grab a spoon, and dig in!

Pro Tips & Variations

Here are a few fun twists and tips to make this soup your own:

• For a bit of kick, try adding some crushed red pepper flakes while sautéing the veggies.
• Swap out the sausage for grilled chicken or turkey if you’re looking for a lighter option.
• If you love a herby punch, add a bay leaf while simmering and remove it before serving.
• Feel free to add other veggies such as zucchini or bell peppers for more color and nutrition.
• For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk just before serving.

Serving Suggestions

This soup is pretty fabulous on its own, but let’s make it even cozier, shall we? Here’s how I love to serve it:

• A warm, crusty loaf of bread is a must for dipping! Think sourdough or a classic baguette.
• Pair with a crisp green salad dressed lightly with vinaigrette for a refreshing bite.
• How about a cozy mug of herbal tea or a glass of white wine alongside your meal? Pure bliss!

Storage Tips

Now, let’s talk about leftovers because you’re definitely going to want some of this goodness for a later date!

• Refrigerate: Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just make sure it cools down before sealing!
• Freeze: This soup freezes wonderfully! Spoon it into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some room for expansion, and store for up to 3 months.
• Reheat: When ready to enjoy, thaw in the fridge overnight if frozen. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water if needed to loosen it up.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi is perfect for this recipe and cooks in just a few minutes. Just toss it in as directed!

What if I don’t have Italian sausage?

No worries! You can substitute with a different ground meat like chicken or turkey, or even try a meatless sausage for a vegetarian option. Just adjust the seasonings to taste!

Can I make this soup in advance?

Yes! You can make it a day in advance; the flavors will deepen and become even more delicious! Just keep in mind that the gnocchi may absorb some broth, so add a little extra when reheating.

Is this recipe easily customizable?

For sure! You can add whatever veggies you love or have on hand. Just be sure to adjust cooking times as necessary to ensure everything is tender.

Conclusion

I hope you find as much joy in making and savoring this Sausage Gnocchi Soup as I do! It’s like a warm embrace in a bowl, perfect for sharing with loved ones or enjoying solo on a quiet evening. If you give it a try, I’d love to hear how it turned out for you! Feel free to leave a comment or share your own creative twists on this comforting dish. Happy cooking, my friend!