Creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup was never part of my meal plan that day. Honestly, it started with me standing at the fridge, holding a pack of gnocchi I’d forgotten I bought. You ever do that thing where you’re hungry but also weirdly indecisive, like nothing quite feels right until you stumble on just the right craving? That was me. And once I imagined gnocchi soaking in a silky, sausage-rich broth, I couldn’t unthink it.
Now, let me ask you this. Have you ever tasted something that feels like it understands your mood? This soup has that kind of energy. It’s creamy but not heavy, bold without being complicated. It’s the kind of dish that says, “You made it through the day. Sit. Eat.” I’m not saying it’s magic, but it does have a way of softening the edges of a long afternoon.
So, if you’re here because you typed something like “gnocchi and sausage recipes” or “soup recipes with gnocchi,” you’re in exactly the right place. I’ll walk you through how to make it step-by-step, plus give you my Instant Pot shortcut, a vegan-friendly version that doesn’t skimp on comfort, and a few tweaks to make it your own.
Let’s make something warm. Something easy. Something that might just become your go-to for evenings that need a little extra comfort.
This creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup is perfect for weeknights and feels like a treat. It’s quick, satisfying, and fits right into busy schedules without cutting corners on flavor.
Looking for more cozy, craveable soups? Browse our full [Cozy Fall Soup Recipes ].
Table of Contents
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Let’s face it, there’s something uniquely comforting about a steaming bowl of creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup on a cold or stressful day. It brings together rich flavor, hearty ingredients, and just enough indulgence to feel like a treat without being overly complicated.
This recipe is a go-to for many home cooks who want a dinner that’s ready fast and satisfies everyone at the table. The creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup hits that rare balance between rustic and refined, giving you a meal that feels special but stays realistic for weeknights.
Even better, this soup stores beautifully. Whether you’re meal prepping or enjoying leftovers, you’ll find that creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup tastes just as good (if not better) the next day, making it ideal for busy households or solo dinners with minimal effort.
Few dishes deliver like creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup. It has everything in one bowl.
Ingredients for Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup
For the best results, use quality ingredients that let the richness of the creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup shine through. Choose flavorful Italian sausage, tender gnocchi, fresh aromatics, and a splash of cream to bring it all together.
Before we jump into the simmering pot, let’s take a look at what makes this creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup so deeply satisfying. The beauty of this recipe is in how it brings humble ingredients together into something rich and comforting. No gourmet pantry required. Just a few essentials that balance flavor, texture, and heartiness.
At the center of it all is the sausage. Look for Italian-style sausage, either spicy or mild, depending on your mood. If you can’t find traditional Italian sausage, good-quality ground sausage or even chicken sausage will still work beautifully. What you’re after is something well-seasoned that browns nicely and brings flavor to the base.
Then there’s the gnocchi. These soft potato dumplings are like tiny comfort bombs. Fresh gnocchi tend to hold up better in soups, but shelf-stable or frozen varieties will also do the trick. Just make sure to check the package instructions so they don’t turn to mush while cooking.
The secret to a standout creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup lies in the balance between quality sausage, pillowy gnocchi, and just the right touch of cream.
The rest of the ingredients bring everything into balance. You’ll need:
- Olive oil for browning and richness
- Onion, carrot, and celery for that classic aromatic base
- Garlic to deepen the savory notes
- Italian seasoning and a pinch of red chili flakes for warmth and depth
- Chicken stock for a flavorful, non-overpowering broth
- Double cream to make it velvety
- Baby spinach for color and freshness
- Grated Parmesan for that final touch of umami
Optional Substitutions
- Swap double cream with single cream or half-and-half to cut down on calories
- Use plant-based cream and sausage for a vegan twist
- Add a diced potato or white beans for extra heartiness
- Try tortellini instead of gnocchi for a change in texture
Ingredient Tips
- If your sausage releases a lot of fat, drain some off before adding vegetables to avoid greasy soup
- Grate Parmesan fresh if possible. Pre-shredded varieties tend to clump and melt poorly
- Use low-sodium chicken stock if you’re concerned about salt levels
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works well in this creamy soup. Just be sure to add it towards the end and follow the package cook time closely. Overcooking frozen gnocchi can make them break down in the broth.
Watch how to make this creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup step by step in this quick video tutorial — it’s easier than you think!
How to Make Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup
This creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup comes together easily in one pot. Follow these step-by-step instructions for a cozy, flavor-packed dinner.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Brown the sausage
Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sausage (casings removed if needed) and cook for 4 to 5 minutes, breaking it apart with a spoon until browned and slightly crispy. - Sauté the aromatics
Add the diced onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until they start to soften. Stir in the garlic, Italian seasoning, and red chili flakes. Cook for 1 minute until fragrant. - Deglaze with wine
Pour in the white wine. Stir well and let it simmer for about a minute so the alcohol evaporates and the flavors concentrate. - Add the broth and simmer
Pour in the chicken stock. Bring everything to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes. - Make it creamy
Stir in the double cream and mix well to combine. Let it warm through for a minute. - Cook the gnocchi
Add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes, or according to the package instructions, until they float and are tender. - Finish with spinach and Parmesan
Stir in the baby spinach and grated Parmesan. Turn off the heat and let the spinach wilt naturally. Taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.
Can I Make This Recipe Without Wine?
Yes. If you prefer not to cook with wine, simply replace it with extra chicken broth or a splash of lemon juice for acidity. The soup will still be flavorful and creamy.
Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 400 grams Italian sausage casings removed
- 1 medium onion finely diced
- 1 medium carrot diced
- 2 celery sticks diced
- 2 garlic cloves minced
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- ¼ teaspoon red chili flakes
- 75 milliliters dry white wine or substitute with broth
- 1 liter chicken stock
- 150 milliliters double cream
- 500 grams gnocchi
- A handful of baby spinach
- 30 grams freshly grated Parmesan
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the sausage and cook for 4 to 5 minutes until browned. Break it apart with a spoon as it cooks.
- Stir in the onion, carrot, and celery. Cook for 2 to 3 minutes until softened. Add garlic, Italian seasoning, and chili flakes. Cook for another minute.
- Pour in the white wine and simmer for a minute. Let most of the liquid evaporate.
- Add the chicken stock. Bring the soup to a boil, then lower the heat and let it simmer for 10 minutes.
- Stir in the double cream and bring back to a gentle simmer.
- Add the gnocchi and cook according to package directions, usually 2 to 3 minutes, until they float.
- Stir in the spinach and Parmesan. Let the spinach wilt. Taste and adjust seasoning before serving.
Notes
- Calories: 639
- Protein: 27g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fat: 36g
- Fiber: 3g
- Sodium: 933mg
Expert Tips for Perfect Gnocchi Soup Every Time
Even simple recipes like creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup can benefit from a few behind-the-scenes tricks. These are the kinds of small decisions that quietly take a good soup and turn it into something memorable. Whether it’s your first try or your fifth, these tips can help you get it just right with less guesswork and fewer mid-recipe regrets.
First, let your sausage really brown. Not just cook through, but brown until you see golden edges and some crispy bits on the bottom of the pan. That caramelization adds richness and gives the broth a base layer of flavor you just can’t fake. If there’s too much fat, spoon out a bit so the soup stays balanced.
Second, avoid overcooking the gnocchi. They’re delicate and only need a few minutes once they’re in the hot broth. Leave them too long and they’ll start to break down, giving your soup a gummy texture instead of that tender, pillowy bite you want.
Third, hold off on adding the spinach until the very end. It wilts fast and doesn’t need more than a minute to soften. Add it too soon and it loses color, turning limp and dull rather than bright and fresh.
If you’re using Parmesan, grate it yourself. Pre-packaged shreds often contain anti-caking agents that stop them from melting smoothly. Freshly grated cheese will dissolve into the broth and give you that creamy finish without clumps or grit.
If you want to freeze your creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup, cook the gnocchi separately and add them when reheating to preserve their texture.
Make It Your Way: Vegan, Gluten-Free, and Light Options
One of the best things about creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup is how easily it adapts to different lifestyles and dietary needs. Whether you’re eating plant-based, avoiding gluten, or just trying to lighten things up a bit, this soup welcomes your tweaks without losing its comfort factor. You don’t need to reinvent the dish to make it fit your table. Just adjust a few ingredients and it still delivers that cozy, rich experience.
Vegan Gnocchi Soup Version
Swapping in vegan ingredients is easier than it used to be. Start with a plant-based sausage that has good texture and seasoning. Most grocery stores now carry Italian-style vegan sausages made from pea protein or soy. Replace the double cream with a dairy-free alternative like oat cream or unsweetened cashew cream. Instead of Parmesan, stir in a spoonful of nutritional yeast or use a vegan cheese that melts well.
If you want a bit more depth in your vegan broth, add a splash of soy sauce or a small spoon of miso paste before simmering. This gives your soup that savory boost without needing meat.
Gluten-Free Gnocchi or Dairy-Free Options
Look for gluten-free gnocchi in the pasta section. They’re often made with potato and rice flour, and they cook the same way as regular ones. Just be careful not to overboil them since they can get sticky faster.
For a dairy-free option that still feels creamy, coconut milk works in a pinch, though it does change the flavor slightly. Oat cream or almond cream tend to blend in more subtly.
Lightened-Up Variation
If you’re watching calories or fat content, you can make this soup feel lighter without losing the core of its flavor. Try using single cream or half-and-half instead of double cream. Choose chicken sausage over pork to reduce fat. Bulk up the veggies and reduce the gnocchi slightly to stretch the volume without making it too heavy.
This creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup is easy to customize and still rich in flavor.
Can I Customize the Spice Level?
Definitely. The red chili flakes are totally optional. If you like heat, you can add more or even swap in spicy sausage. For a milder version, just skip the chili flakes altogether and use sweet or mild sausage instead.
Serving Suggestions and Storage Tips
Creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup is the kind of dish that feels complete on its own, but if you’re setting the table for more than just a solo night in, a few thoughtful additions can turn it into a cozy meal worth sharing. Whether you’re pairing it with something fresh, something crunchy, or simply saving it for later, here’s how to serve and store it like a pro.
What to Serve With Gnocchi Soup
This soup pairs well with simple, no-fuss sides that enhance without overpowering. Try one of these easy add-ons:
- Warm crusty bread or toasted ciabatta to soak up every drop
- A light salad with lemon vinaigrette or balsamic glaze for balance
- Roasted garlic or herb butter rolls
- Steamed green beans or roasted asparagus for a fresh veggie contrast
You can also serve it as a starter for a larger Italian-inspired dinner. Think of a roasted chicken or a baked eggplant dish coming after a rich, comforting soup like this.
Nothing completes a cozy meal like fresh bread served alongside creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup. The broth is rich and inviting, perfect for dipping crusty slices.
How to Store and Reheat Leftovers
Leftovers taste even better the next day as the flavors meld. Let the soup cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to four days.
To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, add a splash of chicken stock or water to loosen the texture without losing flavor.
If you’re freezing it, divide into single portions using freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Just remember, gnocchi tends to soften over time, so reheating gently is key to preserving the texture.
Even leftover, this creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup is just as good the next day
How Long Will This Soup Stay Fresh in the Fridge?
You can safely store this soup in the refrigerator for three to four days. Keep it sealed and chilled. If you’re unsure, give it a smell and a gentle stir. Soups with dairy and meat should always be stored with care.
Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe Card
Here is the complete recipe for creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup, laid out clearly so you can cook without scrolling up and down. It is quick to prepare, satisfying to eat, and easy enough for even the most chaotic weeknight.
| Nutrition Facts (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Calories | 639 kcal |
| Protein | 27 g |
| Carbohydrates | 48 g |
| Fat | 36 g |
| Saturated Fat | 15 g |
| Unsaturated Fat | 22 g |
| Cholesterol | 105 mg |
| Fiber | 3 g |
| Sugar | 7 g |
| Sodium | 933 mg |
| Trans Fat | 0 g |
For detailed nutritional breakdowns of ingredients, you can refer to the USDA FoodData Central database.
Conclusion
If you’ve made it this far, you’re probably already imagining that first spoonful. Creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup isn’t just a recipe, it’s a cozy hug in a bowl.
Whether you’re feeding your family or just yourself, this dish makes you feel taken care of. From the first bite to the last, creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup delivers on everything it promises — warmth, flavor, and simplicity.
So go ahead. Print it, tweak it, share it, or stash it away for those nights when all you want is something warm, honest, and deeply satisfying.
Kids love this creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup because it’s soft and flavorful
Try our [Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup] for a rich and savory option with herbs and cheese.”
“Or go for a protein boost with our [High Protein Broccoli Cheddar Soup].”
Craving more cozy, satisfying dishes? Don’t miss our [Best Comfort Food Recipes] — the ultimate collection of warm, hearty favorites.
FAQs About Gnocchi Sausage Soup
You’ve got the basics, the variations, and the tips. Still, some questions come up time and again when it comes to creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup. Here are the most common ones, answered with real-life practicality in mind.
1. Can I Freeze This Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it. Just know that gnocchi continues to soften as it sits, so it may lose a bit of its firmness after thawing. For the best results, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to airtight containers. Freeze for up to three months. When reheating, add a splash of broth to bring back the original texture and stir gently to avoid breaking the gnocchi.
2. What Kind of Sausage Works Best?
Italian sausage is ideal, either spicy or sweet. Pork sausage gives you a richer flavor, but chicken sausage is a leaner alternative that still works beautifully. Make sure to remove the casing and break it up while browning so it cooks evenly and blends well with the broth.
3. Is There a Way to Make It Without Cream?
Absolutely. You can swap the cream with full-fat coconut milk or a thick plant-based alternative. For a lighter touch, try single cream or half-and-half. If you skip cream altogether, you’ll get a brothier soup that still tastes great with good sausage and stock.
4. Can I Use Kale Instead of Spinach?
Yes, kale holds up well in soups and gives a nice earthy bite. Just chop it into small pieces and add it a bit earlier in the cooking process since it takes longer to soften than spinach.
5. What Can I Serve with This Soup?
This soup is hearty on its own, but it pairs wonderfully with:
Crusty bread or garlic knots
A simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette
Roasted vegetables or steamed green beans
A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water with lemon
