I absolutely love a warm bowl of Italian sausage gnocchi soup Recipe. This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen, especially during the colder months. The combination of savory Italian sausage, tender gnocchi, and fresh vegetables creates a comforting dish that warms the soul. I remember the first time I made this soup; I was experimenting in the kitchen and ended up with a delightful surprise. My family raved about it, and it quickly became a favorite.
Ingredients for Italian sausage gnocchi soup Recipe
To make this delicious soup, you will need the following ingredients:
Soup Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy based on preference)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 medium carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups fresh spinach or kale
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for cooking
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How to Make Italian sausage gnocchi soup Recipe
Making this soup is simple and quick. Here’s how I do it:
Step 1: Cook the Sausage
In a large pot, heat a tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon. Cook until browned and no longer pink, about 5-7 minutes. I love the aroma that fills my kitchen during this step.
Step 2: Add the Vegetables
Once the sausage is cooked, add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables are tender. The colors of the veggies make the dish so inviting.
Step 3: Add Garlic and Seasoning
Stir in the minced garlic, Italian seasoning, and red pepper flakes. Cook for another minute until the garlic is fragrant. This step adds depth to the flavor of the soup.
Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Tomatoes
Next, pour in the chicken broth and add the can of diced tomatoes. Stir everything together and bring the mixture to a boil. The soup starts to come together beautifully at this point.
Step 5: Add the Gnocchi
Once boiling, add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes. I love watching the gnocchi float to the top; it means they are ready!
Step 6: Stir in the Greens
After the gnocchi is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach or kale. Cook for an additional minute until the greens are wilted. This adds a lovely touch of color and nutrition to the soup.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. Serve hot with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese on top. The cheese melts slightly, adding creaminess to every spoonful.
Tips for Italian sausage gnocchi soup Recipe
Here are some tips I’ve learned over the years to make this soup even better:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality sausage make a big difference in flavor. I always try to use organic or locally sourced produce when possible.
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder soup, opt for mild sausage and skip the red pepper flakes. For a kick, use spicy sausage and add more flakes.
- Make it Creamy: For a creamier texture, stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half just before serving.
- Add More Veggies: Feel free to add other vegetables, like zucchini or bell peppers, to the mix. It’s a great way to use up what’s in your fridge.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! This soup is perfect for meal prep. Here’s how I do it:
- Refrigerate: Store the soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days in the fridge. The flavors deepen as it sits.
- Freeze: You can freeze the soup for up to 3 months. Just be sure to leave out the gnocchi, as it can become mushy when frozen. Add it when reheating.
- Reheat: When ready to enjoy, reheat on the stove over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Serving Suggestions
This soup pairs wonderfully with various sides. Here are some of my favorites:
- Crusty Bread: A warm loaf of crusty bread for dipping is simply perfect. I often bake my own or grab a fresh baguette from the bakery.
- Salad: A light green salad with a tangy vinaigrette complements the richness of the soup.
- Cheese Platter: For a more festive occasion, I love to serve a cheese platter with assorted cheeses and crackers.
Nutritional Information of Italian sausage gnocchi soup Recipe
This Italian sausage gnocchi soup is not only delicious but also nutritious. Here’s a rough estimate of the nutritional information per serving:
- Calories: Approximately 350 kcal
- Total Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Protein: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sugars: 4g
Why You’ll Love This Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe
There are many reasons to love this soup.
- Comforting: It’s like a warm hug in a bowl. Perfect for chilly evenings.
- Quick to Make: You can have it ready in under 30 minutes. Great for busy weeknights!
- Versatile: Customize it to your taste with different ingredients.
I can’t recommend this Italian sausage gnocchi soup enough. It’s a dish that brings warmth and comfort to my family and friends. Whether it’s a cozy dinner at home or a gathering with loved ones, this soup is always a hit. I hope you get the chance to try it soon. You might just find it becomes a favorite in your household too!