Gnocchi Soup Recipe: Imagine diving into a warm bowl of creamy, rich soup dotted with soft, pillowy gnocchi—it’s comfort food at its finest. Gnocchi soup is a hearty, Italian-inspired dish that combines potato gnocchi, vegetables, and often a creamy broth. Popularized by Italian kitchens and American chain restaurants alike, this dish is beloved for its satisfying texture and mouthwatering flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
If you’re looking for a recipe that feels like a hug in a bowl, you’re in the right place. Not only is gnocchi soup filling and nourishing, but it’s also incredibly simple to make. Whether you’re a busy parent needing a quick weeknight meal or just craving something cozy on a chilly evening, this soup hits the spot. Plus, it’s customizable! You can keep it vegetarian or load it up with chicken or sausage for extra protein.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Core Ingredients Breakdown
To make the ultimate gnocchi soup, here’s what you’ll need:
- Potato Gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- Olive Oil or Butter (for sautéing)
- Onion (chopped finely)
- Garlic (minced)
- Carrots and Celery (classic soup veggies)
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth (adds depth and body)
- Heavy Cream or Half & Half (for that velvety finish)
- Spinach or Kale (adds a nutritious touch)
- Salt, Pepper, and Italian Seasoning (the holy trinity of seasoning)
- Grated Parmesan (optional but adds richness)
Optional Add-ins and Variations
Want to make it your own? Here are a few twists you can try:
- Protein Options: Add shredded rotisserie chicken, crispy bacon, or sliced Italian sausage.
- Dairy-Free Alternative: Swap the cream for full-fat coconut milk or a dairy-free cream substitute.
- Gluten-Free Version: Use gluten-free gnocchi (read labels carefully).
- Extra Veggies: Mushrooms, zucchini, or peas are great additions.
- Spice it Up: A pinch of red pepper flakes or a splash of hot sauce adds heat.
Essential Kitchen Tools
Before we get started, gather these kitchen essentials:
- Large Pot or Dutch Oven: You’ll cook everything in one pot—less cleanup!
- Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and sautéing.
- Measuring Cups and Spoons: To keep the flavors balanced.
- Sharp Knife and Cutting Board: For prepping the veggies.
- Ladle: For serving that perfect bowlful.
How to Make Gnocchi Soup – Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Sauté Your Aromatics
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a large pot over medium heat. Toss in your chopped onion, garlic, celery, and carrots. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions are translucent and the carrots start to soften. This step builds a flavor base that will give your soup that made-from-scratch taste.
Step 2 – Add Vegetables and Broth
Once the aromatics are softened, it’s time to pour in your broth. Whether you’re using chicken or vegetable stock, make sure it’s high-quality or homemade if possible. Add your Italian seasoning and bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 3 – Simmer to Perfection
Now that your broth and veggies are getting cozy, reduce the heat to medium-low and let everything simmer for about 10 to 15 minutes. This allows all the flavors to mingle and the veggies to become tender. You’ll notice the soup becoming more aromatic—your kitchen will smell like an Italian grandma’s kitchen in no time! Stir occasionally so nothing sticks to the bottom. This is also the point where the flavors begin to develop a deeper, more comforting profile.
If you’re adding protein like cooked chicken or sausage, toss it in during this simmering stage. It’ll absorb all those delicious flavors and become even more savory.
Step 4 – Add Gnocchi and Cream
Now for the star of the show: the gnocchi. Gently drop them into the simmering pot. Gnocchi usually cook quickly—just 3 to 5 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they float to the top like little potato pillows of joy.
After the gnocchi have cooked, reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream (or your dairy-free alternative). Watch as the broth turns silky and slightly thick. This is where that “creamy comfort food” magic really happens.
Don’t forget to toss in your fresh spinach or kale at this stage, too. It’ll wilt down in just a couple of minutes, adding color, texture, and a nutritional punch.
Step 5 – Season and Serve
Now’s the time to taste and tweak. Add more salt, pepper, or even a splash more cream if needed. A dash of nutmeg or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes can enhance the flavor profile even more.
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with grated Parmesan and cracked black pepper. Maybe even a drizzle of olive oil or a few fresh basil leaves if you’re feeling fancy.
Tips for the Best Gnocchi Soup
- Use quality gnocchi: Not all store-bought gnocchi are created equal. Look for ones with minimal ingredients and no fillers.
- Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Once they float, they’re done. Overcooking makes them mushy.
- Balance the cream: Add it slowly and taste as you go. You want a creamy soup, not a thick gravy.
- Use fresh herbs: A little fresh basil or thyme at the end can brighten the entire dish.
Serving Suggestions
Gnocchi soup is hearty enough to stand alone, but if you want to elevate dinner, serve it with:
- Crusty Bread or Garlic Toast: Perfect for soaking up every drop.
- Simple Side Salad: A tangy vinaigrette balances the creaminess of the soup.
- Roasted Vegetables: Add texture and more nutrition to your meal.
This soup also pairs beautifully with a crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a light red like Chianti for an elegant touch.
Storing and Reheating Leftovers
Got leftovers? You’re in luck—this soup keeps well and might taste even better the next day!
- Fridge: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Reheat: Gently warm on the stove over medium heat. Add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.
- Freezer: Not ideal, as gnocchi can become soggy when thawed. If freezing, do so before adding the gnocchi.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the gnocchi: They get mushy fast—keep an eye on them!
- Skipping the sauté: Don’t rush this step—it creates the base flavor of the soup.
- Using too much cream: Rich is good, but balance is better.
- Adding all the greens at the beginning: Wait till the end to keep them bright and fresh.
FAQs about Gnocchi Soup Recipe
1. What is gnocchi soup made of?
Gnocchi soup typically includes potato gnocchi, chicken or vegetable broth, cooked chicken (or sausage), spinach or kale, carrots, celery, onion, garlic, and cream. It’s a hearty and creamy dish perfect for comfort food lovers.
2. Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time. You can also use homemade gnocchi if you prefer a more traditional, fresh taste.
3. Is gnocchi soup healthy?
It can be! Gnocchi soup is rich in nutrients, especially if you use lean protein and add plenty of vegetables. For a lighter version, use low-fat milk or skip the cream entirely.
4. Can I make gnocchi soup vegetarian?
Absolutely. Simply replace the chicken with extra vegetables like mushrooms or zucchini and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
5. How do I store leftover gnocchi soup?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Note: gnocchi can absorb liquid over time, so you might need to add a splash of broth or water when reheating.
6. Can gnocchi soup be frozen?
It’s not recommended to freeze gnocchi soup, as the gnocchi may become mushy after thawing. If you want to freeze it, leave the gnocchi out and add fresh gnocchi when reheating.
7. How long does it take to cook gnocchi soup?
Most gnocchi soup recipes take about 30–40 minutes from start to finish, making it an excellent weeknight dinner option.
8. Can I make gnocchi soup in a slow cooker?
Yes, just add all ingredients (except gnocchi and cream) and cook on low for 6–7 hours or high for 3–4 hours. Add gnocchi and cream in the last 30 minutes of cooking.
Conclusion
And there you have it—a warm, creamy, dreamy bowl of gnocchi soup that’s as comforting as it is easy to make. Whether you’re prepping a quick weeknight dinner or planning a cozy meal for guests, this recipe is sure to impress. With its simple steps, customizable ingredients, and rich flavors, gnocchi soup is bound to become a regular in your kitchen rotation.
So grab that spoon, dip into a bowl, and savor every bite—you’ve earned it!
