Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup | Comfort in a Bowl

If you’re craving the ultimate cozy dinner, this Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is about to become your new favorite recipe. Packed with savory Italian sausage, pillowy potato gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a rich, creamy broth, this soup is hearty enough to be a full meal on its own. It’s a comforting dish that comes together in under 40 minutes, making it perfect for chilly nights, busy weeknights, or when you’re simply in the mood for comfort food.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One-pot wonder – easy to cook and easy to clean up.

• Hearty & filling – loaded with protein, carbs, and veggies.

• Restaurant-style flavor – tastes just like Olive Garden’s gnocchi soup, but better!

• Perfect for leftovers – the flavors get even richer the next day.

Ingredients You’ll Need

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy)

• 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed)

• 1 medium onion, diced

• 2 carrots, diced

• 3 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp Italian seasoning

• 1/2 tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional for heat)

• 4 cups chicken broth

• 1 cup heavy cream (or half-and-half)

• 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)

• 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped

• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese

• Salt & black pepper, to taste

• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Brown the sausage – In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook sausage over medium heat until browned. Drain excess grease if necessary.

2. Sauté vegetables – Add onion, carrots, and garlic to the pot. Cook for 3–4 minutes until softened. Stir in Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.

3. Add broth & cream – Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer.

4. Cook the gnocchi – Add potato gnocchi directly to the soup and cook according to package directions, usually 3–5 minutes, until they float to the surface.

5. Stir in spinach & cheese – Add spinach and Parmesan, stirring until wilted and creamy. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper.

6. Serve & enjoy – Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, and serve with warm crusty bread.

Tips & Variations

• Make it lighter: Use turkey sausage and half-and-half instead of heavy cream.

• Add more veggies: Try mushrooms, zucchini, or kale for extra nutrition.

• Spicy twist: Use hot Italian sausage and a dash of cayenne for a kick.

• Gluten-free option: Use gluten-free gnocchi or swap with diced potatoes.

• Make ahead: Soup keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently and add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much.

Final Thoughts

This Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is the definition of comfort food. With its rich broth, tender gnocchi, and savory sausage, it’s a hearty one-pot meal that’s as easy as it is satisfying. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just treating yourself, this soup is guaranteed to warm you from the inside out.