There are certain dishes that instantly make a home feel warmer, and a creamy bowl of gnocchi soup is one of them. This Irresistible Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is the kind of meal you crave on a chilly evening, when you want something hearty yet comforting enough to slow the day down. Imagine a pot gently simmering on the stove, filling the kitchen with the aroma of herbs, garlic, and rich broth while everyone eagerly waits for dinner.
This recipe was inspired by classic Italian comfort cooking, where simple ingredients are transformed into something deeply satisfying. Instead of traditional pork-based sausage, this version uses Italian-style chicken or turkey sausage, keeping the flavors bold and savory while staying light and approachable. Paired with pillowy potato gnocchi and a luxuriously creamy broth, this soup has quickly become a family favorite for cozy nights, casual gatherings, or anytime you want a nourishing meal that feels like a warm hug.
Why This Creamy Gnocchi Soup Is So Loved
This soup checks every box for comfort food lovers. It is rich without being heavy, filling without feeling overwhelming, and packed with balanced flavors that appeal to both adults and kids. The gnocchi add a tender, doughy texture that soaks up the creamy broth beautifully, while the Italian-seasoned sausage brings just the right amount of savory depth.
Another reason this recipe stands out is its versatility. It can be made as a weeknight dinner or served as a starter for a special meal. The ingredients are easy to find, the steps are straightforward, and the final result tastes like something you would order at a cozy Italian café.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Below are the ingredients used in both the article and the recipe card. Each ingredient plays a key role in creating that signature creamy, cozy flavor.
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 pound Italian-style chicken or turkey sausage, casings removed
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1 medium yellow onion, finely diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 pound potato gnocchi
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1 cup heavy cream
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2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
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¼ cup grated Parmesan-style cheese
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Optional: red pepper flakes for gentle heat
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup
1. Build the Flavor Base
Begin by heating 1 tablespoon olive oil in a large, heavy-bottomed soup pot over medium heat. Using a sturdy pot helps distribute heat evenly and prevents scorching as the soup develops. Once the oil is warm and lightly shimmering, add 1 pound Italian-style chicken or turkey sausage, removing the casings first. As the sausage cooks, use a wooden spoon or spatula to break it into small, bite-sized pieces. Allow it to cook for about 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it is fully cooked and lightly browned. This browning step is essential because it builds a deep, savory foundation for the soup. The rendered juices from the sausage combine with the olive oil, creating a flavorful base that will carry through every layer of the dish.
2. Add Aromatics and Vegetables
With the sausage cooked, it is time to introduce the vegetables that bring balance and subtle sweetness to the soup. Add 1 medium diced yellow onion, 2 diced carrots, and 2 diced celery stalks directly into the pot. Stir everything together so the vegetables are coated in the flavorful fat from the sausage. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables begin to soften and the onions turn translucent. This slow softening allows the natural sugars in the vegetables to release, enhancing the overall flavor. Next, add 3 cloves of minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds. Garlic should be fragrant but not browned, as overcooking can make it bitter. At this stage, the kitchen will be filled with warm, comforting aromas that signal the soup is coming together beautifully.
3. Simmer the Broth
Pour 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth into the pot, scraping the bottom gently to lift any flavorful bits that may have stuck during cooking. These browned bits add depth and richness to the soup. Season the broth with 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning, ½ teaspoon salt, and ½ teaspoon black pepper. Stir well to distribute the seasonings evenly. Increase the heat slightly and bring the soup to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 10 minutes. This simmering time allows the flavors from the sausage, vegetables, and herbs to blend together, creating a well-rounded and comforting broth that forms the heart of the soup.
4. Cook the Gnocchi
Once the broth has simmered and developed its flavor, add 1 pound potato gnocchi directly to the pot. Gnocchi cook quickly and do not require a separate pot, making this recipe wonderfully convenient. Stir gently to ensure they do not stick together or to the bottom of the pot. Let the soup simmer for 3–4 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface and become tender. Their soft, pillowy texture absorbs the surrounding broth, making each bite incredibly satisfying. Be careful not to overcook them, as gnocchi can become too soft if left simmering for too long.
5. Make It Creamy
Lower the heat to prevent boiling and slowly stir in 1 cup heavy cream along with ¼ cup grated Parmesan-style cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely into the broth, creating a smooth and velvety texture. Keeping the heat low at this stage is important to maintain the creaminess and avoid curdling. The cream transforms the soup into a rich, luxurious dish while the cheese adds a subtle savory note that enhances the Italian-inspired flavors without overpowering them.
6. Finish with Spinach
To finish the soup, add 2 cups fresh chopped spinach and gently stir. Cook for 1–2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and turns a vibrant green. This final addition brings freshness and a pop of color to the soup while balancing the richness of the cream. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping, and enjoy a comforting, cozy meal that feels both hearty and indulgent.
Tips for the Best Gnocchi Soup
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Use shelf-stable or refrigerated potato gnocchi for best texture.
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Avoid boiling after adding cream to maintain a smooth, silky broth.
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Add spinach at the end to preserve color and nutrients.
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For thicker soup, let it simmer an extra few minutes before serving.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, this soup can be made ahead, but there are a few tips to ensure the best results. If you plan to prepare it in advance, consider cooking the soup without the gnocchi and cream. Store the base in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. When ready to serve, reheat gently on the stove, then add the gnocchi and cream fresh. This prevents the gnocchi from becoming overly soft and keeps the broth perfectly creamy.
Can I freeze creamy gnocchi soup?
Freezing creamy soups can be tricky due to the dairy content. While it is possible, the texture may change slightly when thawed. If freezing, leave out the cream and gnocchi before storing. Freeze the soup base for up to two months. When reheating, add fresh cream and gnocchi for the best taste and consistency. This method preserves the flavor while avoiding grainy texture.
What can I substitute for heavy cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or a mixture of milk and a tablespoon of flour for thickness. Keep in mind that the soup will be slightly less rich, but still delicious. For best results, warm the dairy before adding it to the soup to prevent curdling.
What sides pair well with this soup?
This creamy gnocchi soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic breadsticks, or a simple green salad. A side of roasted vegetables or a light tomato-based salad also balances the richness of the soup. These sides help turn the dish into a complete and satisfying meal.
Final Thoughts
There is something undeniably comforting about a bowl of creamy gnocchi soup, especially when it is filled with tender vegetables, savory Italian-style sausage, and a rich, velvety broth. This recipe brings together classic flavors in a way that feels familiar yet special, making it perfect for both everyday dinners and moments when you want to slow down and savor your meal.
What truly sets this soup apart is its balance. The gnocchi provide heartiness without heaviness, the cream adds indulgence without overpowering the other ingredients, and the spinach brings freshness that brightens every spoonful. Using chicken or turkey Italian-style sausage keeps the dish approachable while still delivering that bold, herby flavor people love.
Whether you are cooking for your family, hosting friends, or simply treating yourself to a cozy night in, this soup is a reliable choice. It is easy to prepare, deeply satisfying, and endlessly adaptable to your preferences. Once you try it, it is likely to become a regular in your meal rotation, especially during cooler months when comfort food is most welcome.
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Irresistible Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup So Cozy
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
Description
A rich and comforting soup made with Italian-style chicken or turkey sausage, pillowy gnocchi, and a creamy, savory broth.
Ingredients
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1 tablespoon olive oil
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1 pound Italian-style chicken or turkey sausage, casings removed
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1 medium yellow onion, diced
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3 cloves garlic, minced
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2 medium carrots, diced
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2 celery stalks, diced
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4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
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1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
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½ teaspoon salt
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½ teaspoon black pepper
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1 pound potato gnocchi
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1 cup heavy cream
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2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
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¼ cup grated Parmesan-style cheese
Instructions
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Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat and cook sausage until browned.
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Add onion, carrots, and celery; cook until softened.
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Stir in garlic and cook briefly.
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Pour in chicken broth and seasonings; simmer for 10 minutes.
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Add gnocchi and cook until tender.
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Stir in heavy cream and cheese.
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Add spinach and cook until wilted. Serve warm.
Notes
For best texture, add gnocchi and cream just before serving if making ahead. Adjust seasoning to taste and serve with crusty bread for a complete meal.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
