This creamy gnocchi soup is a warm hug in a bowl! Soft gnocchi dangles in a rich, velvety broth filled with tasty veggies and spices.
Trust me, the comfort in each spoonful will have you dreaming of cozy nights. I love topping mine with some fresh parsley for a little pop of color!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds healthy fat and flavor to the soup. You can substitute it with butter if that’s what you have on hand for a richer taste.
Garlic & Onion: Fresh garlic and onion are key for depth. If you’re short on time, garlic powder and onion powder can work, but I recommend fresh for the best flavor.
Broth: Use chicken broth for more flavor, but vegetable broth is just as tasty and a great option for vegetarians. Homemade broth is excellent if you have it!
Gnocchi: I love using store-bought gnocchi for ease, but homemade is wonderful if you have the time. You could also use pasta, just adjust cooking time.
Heavy Cream: This makes the soup creamy. If you want a lighter option, half-and-half or even coconut milk can work, but the flavor will shift a bit.
Spinach: Fresh spinach is a great leafy green here. You can substitute kale or Swiss chard if you prefer. Frozen spinach works too, but thaw it and squeeze out excess water.
How Do I Cook Gnocchi Perfectly in Soup?
Cooking gnocchi in soup is pretty straightforward, but there are a few tips to get it just right:
- Make sure you’re using enough broth for the gnocchi to cook in. This avoids them becoming gummy.
- Add the gnocchi after the broth is boiling to ensure they cook quickly and remain fluffy.
- Don’t overcook the gnocchi! They only need around 2-3 minutes or until they float. As soon as they do, it’s time to add in your greens.
- Keep the heat on medium-low after adding cream. High heat can cause it to separate or curdle, leading to an unpleasant texture.
By following these tips, you’ll have perfectly cooked gnocchi in your creamy soup every time!
How to Make Creamy Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 (16 oz) package gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Time to Prepare:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and about 15 minutes to cook, making a total of around 25 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Aromatics:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and fragrant. This step adds so much flavor to your soup, so don’t rush it!
2. Add the Broth:
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. This will be the hearty base for your soup.
3. Cook the Gnocchi:
Once the broth is bubbling, add the gnocchi. Cook them according to the package instructions. They usually take about 2-3 minutes and will float to the surface when they’re done. That’s how you know they’re ready!
4. Incorporate the Spinach:
After the gnocchi are cooked, reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in the chopped spinach leaves. Allow them to wilt for about 1-2 minutes. This adds some yummy greens and vibrant color to your soup.
5. Make it Creamy:
Now for the best part! Stir in the heavy cream, grated Parmesan cheese, and smoked paprika. Heat gently, but avoid boiling, until everything is creamy and warm. This step makes the soup rich and comforting!
6. Season and Serve:
Finally, taste your soup and season it with salt and freshly ground black pepper as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, and finish it off with a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley for a lovely garnish.
Enjoy this comforting, creamy gnocchi soup that’s perfect for chilly days!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi Instead of Fresh?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly! Just add them directly to the boiling broth without thawing. They may need an extra minute to cook, so keep an eye on them until they float.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’re all set for a delicious vegetarian version.
How Long Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover creamy gnocchi soup can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do it slowly on the stovetop over low heat to prevent the cream from curdling.
Can I Add More Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, peas, or mushrooms. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic at the beginning of the recipe for added flavor.
