Easy gnocchi soup recipe in 30 minutes
If you’re looking for a comforting, soul-warming meal, then look no further than gnocchi soup. Whether you’re snuggled up on a chilly evening or craving something hearty to fill you up, this recipe has it all—rich, creamy broth, soft, pillowy gnocchi, and savory flavors that will make your taste buds dance.
You might be wondering, “Why gnocchi soup?” Well, it’s the perfect combination of traditional Italian gnocchi (those little potato dumplings) and a flavorful broth that’s just begging to be slurped up. And the best part? It’s versatile, customizable, and can easily be made in under an hour!
In this guide, I’ll walk you through every step of making this delicious dish, from gathering your ingredients to tips on how to take your gnocchi soup to the next level. By the end, you’ll be ready to serve up a bowl of comfort that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
Why This Recipe is Perfect for You
Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or a seasoned chef, gnocchi soup is an easy yet impressive recipe that will leave your guests thinking you spent hours in the kitchen. It’s also a great option for those busy weekdays when you need a quick, filling meal that’s also satisfying.
It’s perfect for:
- Weeknight dinners: Quick, easy, and ready in under 45 minutes.
- Chilly weather: The creamy broth and tender gnocchi are like a warm hug on a cold day.
- Family gatherings: It’s hearty enough to feed a crowd and can be made in one pot for easy cleanup.
Quick Overview of the Recipe and Its Benefits
This gnocchi soup recipe is creamy, filling, and packed with nutritious ingredients like vegetables, herbs, and a rich broth. The gnocchi adds a wonderful texture to the soup, while the creamy base makes each spoonful indulgent and comforting. Plus, it’s highly customizable—you can make it with chicken, sausage, or even keep it vegetarian. The possibilities are endless!
Ingredients
Essential Ingredients for Gnocchi Soup
Before we get started, let’s gather the essential ingredients you’ll need to make this gnocchi soup. Here’s a quick list of everything you’ll need:
| Ingredient | Amount | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Gnocchi (store-bought or homemade) | 1 pound (450g) | The star of the dish; adds texture and heartiness |
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons | For sautéing veggies and starting the base |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced | Adds aromatic flavor |
| Onion | 1 medium, chopped | Builds the soup’s flavor base |
| Carrots | 2 medium, diced | Adds sweetness and color to the soup |
| Celery | 2 stalks, diced | Adds crunch and freshness |
| Chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian) | 4 cups | The base of the soup |
| Heavy cream or half-and-half | 1 cup | Makes the soup rich and creamy |
| Spinach | 2 cups fresh | Adds color and nutrients |
| Parmesan cheese (optional) | 1/4 cup grated | For topping and extra flavor |
| Salt and pepper | To taste | For seasoning |
Substitutes for Key Ingredients
While the ingredients above make a fantastic base, you can always swap some things out based on what you have on hand or to cater to specific dietary needs:
- Broth: Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian or vegan version, or opt for chicken broth for more depth.
- Heavy cream: Swap it for coconut milk for a dairy-free version.
- Gnocchi: If you want to switch things up, try using dumplings or even small pasta like ditalini in place of gnocchi.
- Spinach: Kale, Swiss chard, or arugula can also be used as a green substitute.
Equipment Needed
For a smooth and stress-free cooking experience, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Here’s what you’ll need:
| Essential Equipment | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Large pot or Dutch oven | Ideal for making the soup in one pot and cooking the gnocchi |
| Wooden spoon | To stir the soup and keep it from sticking |
| Knife and chopping board | For prepping your vegetables and garlic |
Optional Equipment for Enhanced Results
- Immersion blender: If you want a smoother soup, you can use an immersion blender to blend the soup at the end, making it velvety and creamy.
- Grater: For freshly grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Veggies
Start by chopping your onions, carrots, and celery. Mince your garlic too—this will help them cook faster and evenly.
Step 2: Sauté the Veggies
Heat olive oil in your large pot over medium heat. Add the onions, carrots, and celery and cook for about 5 minutes, until the veggies start to soften. Add in your minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes, until fragrant.
Step 3: Add the Broth
Now, pour in the chicken (or vegetable) broth. Bring it to a simmer and let it cook for about 10 minutes. This allows all those veggie flavors to infuse the broth.
Step 4: Add the Gnocchi
Once the broth is simmering, it’s time to add your gnocchi. Drop them in and let them cook for about 2-3 minutes, or until they start floating. This is a good indicator that they’re ready!
Step 5: Make It Creamy
Pour in your heavy cream and stir to combine. This will turn your soup into a rich, creamy delight. Let it simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to come together.
Step 6: Add the Spinach
Now it’s time to add some greens! Stir in the spinach and let it wilt in the heat of the soup. It will only take a minute or two. If you’re using other greens like kale, give them a little more time to cook down.
Step 7: Season and Serve
Taste your soup and add salt and pepper to your liking. If you want a little extra richness, sprinkle in some grated Parmesan cheese before serving.
Tips & Tricks for Success
Cooking Time
Gnocchi typically cooks pretty quickly, so make sure not to overcook them in the soup. Once they start floating, they’re good to go!
How to Make Gnocchi Soup Even Better
For extra flavor, try adding herbs like thyme, rosemary, or bay leaves while simmering the broth. These will give the soup even more depth and complexity.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overcooking the gnocchi: Once they float, don’t leave them in too long—they can become mushy.
- Skipping the seasoning: Don’t forget the salt and pepper! A dash of both really brings out all the flavors in the soup.
Time-Saving Tips
To make this soup even faster, try using store-bought gnocchi (which is what most of us do!) and pre-chopped veggies.
Variations and Substitutes
Gnocchi Soup Variations for Different Diets
- Vegan version: Use vegetable broth, coconut milk, and skip the cheese or use a plant-based cheese.
- Gluten-free version: Ensure your gnocchi is gluten-free (there are many brands available), and use gluten-free broth.
Creative Twists to Try
- Add some cooked sausage or rotisserie chicken for extra protein.
- Spice it up with a pinch of red pepper flakes for some heat.
How to Serve Gnocchi Soup
Best Side Dishes to Pair with Gnocchi Soup
- Garlic bread: Nothing beats a warm, crusty loaf of garlic bread dipped into creamy soup.
- Salad: A light arugula salad with a tangy vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup.
Serving Suggestions for Occasions/Meals
This soup is perfect for a cozy night in, but it also works well for serving at dinner parties or as a starter for holiday meals.
Nutritional Information
Calories per Serving
Each serving of this creamy gnocchi soup contains approximately 350-400 calories, depending on the ingredients you choose (like using full-fat cream versus lighter options).
Other Key Nutrients
- Protein: Around 10g per serving (more if you add chicken or sausage)
- Fiber: 4g per serving (thanks to the veggies and spinach)
How to Make Gnocchi Soup Healthier
To cut down on calories, swap out the cream for half-and-half or even a dairy-free milk like almond milk. You can also use less gnocchi and load up on more vegetables for added fiber.
Conclusion
So there you have it—the ultimate gnocchi soup recipe that’s creamy, comforting, and utterly delicious. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, your family, or a group of friends, this dish is sure to be a hit. The best part? You can tweak the recipe to make it your own, whether you want to make it lighter, heartier, or packed with even more veggies.
Call to Action
We’d love to hear how your gnocchi soup turned out! Drop a comment below to let us know what you thought, and share any tweaks you made to the recipe. Don’t forget to share this recipe with your friends who love comfort food, and follow us on social media for more delicious recipes to try!
FAQs:
- Can I make gnocchi soup ahead of time?
- Yes! You can make it ahead and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat on the stove before serving.
- Can I freeze gnocchi soup?
- It’s best to freeze the soup before adding the cream, as dairy can separate when frozen. Add the cream when reheating.
- What can I serve with gnocchi soup?
- A fresh salad, garlic bread, or even some roasted vegetables would make great sides.
- Can I use frozen gnocchi?
- Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi works just as well as fresh. Just toss them directly into the soup while it’s simmering.
- How can I make gnocchi soup spicier?
- Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or some diced jalapeños to give the soup a spicy kick!