This creamy gnocchi soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! With soft gnocchi, fresh veggies, and a luscious cream base, it’s perfect for chilly days.
The best part? It comes together quickly, so you won’t be stuck in the kitchen for hours. I love topping it with some crispy bacon or fresh herbs. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive oil or butter: I often use olive oil for its light flavor, but butter adds a nice richness. If you’re dairy-free, stick to olive oil or choose coconut oil for a different taste.
Onion: Yellow onions are perfect for sweetness, but you can swap with shallots for a milder flavor or even green onions for a fresh bite.
Mushrooms: Cremini or button mushrooms are great choices, but feel free to experiment with shiitake or portobello for a deeper flavor.
Broth: Vegetable broth keeps it lighter, while chicken broth adds depth. For a low-sodium option, choose low-sodium broth to control the salt levels.
Cream: Heavy cream makes it rich, but if you want a lighter version, use half-and-half or even a plant-based alternative like coconut cream for a different twist.
Spinach: Fresh spinach gives a nice color and nutrition, but kale or Swiss chard could also work well. Just make sure to cook them a little longer until tender.
How Can I Ensure My Soup Is Perfectly Creamy?
Getting that lovely creamy texture in your gnocchi soup is all in the way you combine and heat your ingredients. Here’s how to do it:
- Start by sautéing your vegetables on medium heat to release their flavors without browning them.
- When adding the broth, allow it to reach a gentle boil before adding the gnocchi. This helps the gnocchi cook nicely.
- Once you add the heavy cream, don’t let the soup boil vigorously. Keep it on medium-low so it thickens without curdling.
- Simmer just until the spinach wilts. Overcooking will make it lose its vibrant green color.
Enjoy your creamy texture, and don’t forget to take your time with the simmering—it really enhances the soup’s richness!
How to Make Creamy Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 8 ounces mushrooms, sliced (such as cremini or button)
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley or basil, chopped for garnish
- Optional: grated Parmesan cheese for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy gnocchi soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll have dinner ready in about 25 minutes total! Perfect for a quick weeknight meal or a cozy weekend treat.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil or Butter:
In a large pot, heat your olive oil or butter over medium heat. This will be the base for your flavorful soup!
2. Sauté the Onions:
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes soft and translucent. Stir occasionally to prevent it from browning.
3. Add Garlic and Mushrooms:
Next, stir in the minced garlic and sliced mushrooms. Cook for about 5 minutes until the mushrooms have softened and released their moisture, filling your kitchen with delicious aroma!
4. Pour in the Broth:
Carefully pour in the broth and bring it to a boil. This is where the magic happens!
5. Cook the Gnocchi:
Once the broth is boiling, toss in the gnocchi. Follow the package instructions; they typically take about 2-3 minutes to cook and will float to the surface when done.
6. Add Cream and Spinach:
Lower the heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream, chopped spinach, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes. This will make your soup creamy and flavorful!
7. Simmer the Soup:
Let the soup simmer gently for another 3-5 minutes until it thickens slightly and the spinach wilts. Stir occasionally to combine.
8. Season to Taste:
Add salt and black pepper to taste. Remember, you can always add more, but it’s tricky to take away!
9. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil, and if you’d like, a sprinkle of red pepper flakes or grated Parmesan cheese for extra flavor.
10. Enjoy!
Serve the creamy gnocchi soup warm with some crusty bread on the side for dipping. Enjoy every comforting spoonful and share with friends or family for a cozy gathering!
This dish is sure to warm your heart and fill your belly!
Can I Use Store-Bought Gnocchi for This Recipe?
Absolutely! Store-bought gnocchi is a great time-saver and works perfectly in this soup. Just follow the package instructions for cooking time.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or even whole milk to make the soup a bit less rich. For a dairy-free alternative, consider using coconut cream or a plant-based heavy cream substitute.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or cream to maintain the creamy texture, as it may thicken in the fridge.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and ensure your gnocchi is free from egg. Most store-bought potato gnocchi are vegan-friendly!
