If you have ever dreamed of a warm, comforting bowl of soup that feels like a big, cozy Italian hug, then you are going to love this Crock Pot Italian-Style Gnocchi Soup Recipe. It’s packed with tender Italian sausage, soft gnocchi, and fresh spinach all simmered to perfection in a rich, creamy broth. This soup is such a crowd-pleaser, delivering layers of flavor with minimal effort thanks to the magic of the slow cooker. Whether you want a fuss-free weeknight meal or a centerpiece for your next gathering, this recipe is an absolute winner!
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are simple and straightforward, but each one plays an essential role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and vibrant color in your soup. From the spicy Italian sausage to the delicate gnocchi and fresh greens, every component shines in this dish.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy): Adds savory depth and a little kick depending on your preference.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Provides sweetness and aromatic flavor.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the broth with a classic Italian fragrance.
- 4 cups chicken broth: The warm, comforting base that ties everything together.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Adds acidity and a vibrant burst of color.
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen gnocchi: These pillowy little potato dumplings bring delightful texture.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Introduces freshness and a pop of green for nutrition.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Creates a luscious, creamy finish to the soup.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: A blend of herbs that provides authentic Italian flair.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): For those who love a gentle heat to balance the creaminess.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for seasoning and bringing out all the flavors.
- Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional): Adds a salty, nutty touch just before serving.
How to Make Crock Pot Italian-Style Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Italian Sausage
Begin by cooking the sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Break it apart as it browns to ensure even cooking and deep flavor. Once the sausage is nicely browned and fragrant, drain the excess fat and transfer it to your Crock Pot. This step builds a rich, meaty base that will infuse your soup with irresistible taste.
Step 2: Combine the Base Ingredients
To the crock pot with the sausage, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, canned diced tomatoes along with their juices, and dried Italian seasoning. Give everything a good stir to mix all the flavors together, setting the stage for that slow-simmered magic.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Soup
Cover and let your Crock Pot work its wonders by cooking the soup on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours. This slow cooking allows the flavors to meld beautifully, producing a rich and hearty broth that warms you right to your soul.
Step 4: Add the Gnocchi
About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, toss in the frozen gnocchi and stir gently. Continue cooking until the gnocchi become tender and pillowy—this usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes. This step brings a delightful chewiness that complements the broth perfectly.
Step 5: Finish with Spinach and Cream
Stir in the fresh chopped spinach and heavy cream, returning the soup to a gentle simmer for another 10 minutes. The spinach wilts beautifully, adding freshness and color, while the cream gives the broth a smooth, velvety texture that makes every spoonful comforting.
Step 6: Season and Adjust
Now is the time to taste and adjust your seasoning. Add salt, pepper, and if you like things a bit spicy, sprinkle in some red pepper flakes. These final touches elevate the soup to perfection.
Step 7: Serve with Optional Parmesan Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and if you wish, garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese. It adds a savory finish that truly enhances the overall flavor experience of this Crock Pot Italian-Style Gnocchi Soup Recipe.
How to Serve Crock Pot Italian-Style Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Freshly grated Parmesan is classic and a personal favorite for adding that salty, nutty accent. A sprinkle of chopped fresh basil or parsley can brighten the presentation and flavor. For a little extra richness, a drizzle of good-quality olive oil just before serving is a wonderful addition.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with crusty Italian bread for dipping, or a crisp green salad tossed with a tangy vinaigrette to balance the creaminess. Garlic knots or cheesy breadsticks also make hearty companions if you want to turn it into a full meal.
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving the soup in a rustic bread bowl for a charming twist that doubles as an edible utensil! Alternatively, offer a small plate of grated Parmesan and chili flakes on the side so everyone can customize their bowls. You can even garnish with toasted pine nuts for a delightful crunch.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer any leftover soup to an airtight container and refrigerate. It will keep well for up to 3 days and tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to meld.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup for up to 2 months, but keep in mind that the texture of the gnocchi and spinach might soften slightly after thawing. For best results, consider adding fresh spinach and gnocchi after reheating frozen soup.
Reheating
Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen it up. Add fresh spinach or gnocchi during reheating if you didn’t include them in the frozen portion to maintain the best texture.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a great leaner alternative that will still provide plenty of flavor. Just make sure it is well seasoned or add extra herbs to keep the taste vibrant.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can swap the Italian sausage for plant-based sausage or extra mushrooms for a meaty texture. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and omit the heavy cream or replace it with a non-dairy cream for creaminess.
Can I prepare the soup on the stovetop instead of a Crock Pot?
Definitely. Brown the sausage and sauté the onion and garlic in a large pot, then add the remaining ingredients. Simmer for about 30-45 minutes and follow the same steps for adding gnocchi, spinach, and cream toward the end.
How spicy is this soup with red pepper flakes?
The red pepper flakes add a gentle warmth rather than overpowering heat. You can adjust the amount or leave them out entirely depending on your tolerance for spice.
What type of gnocchi works best?
Frozen gnocchi is convenient and works perfectly since it cooks while in the soup. If you prefer fresh gnocchi, add them near the end of cooking and watch carefully to avoid overcooking as they cook quite quickly.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Italian-Style Gnocchi Soup Recipe is such a treasure to have in your culinary repertoire. It’s comforting, flavorful, and effortlessly impressive—perfect for cozy nights or special occasions with friends and family. Once you try this, it just might become your go-to slow cooker soup that everyone asks for again and again. So grab your Crock Pot and get ready to savor every delicious spoonful!
Print
Crock Pot Italian-Style Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours (high) or 6 hours (low)
- Total Time: 3 hours 10 minutes (high) or 6 hours 10 minutes (low)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup is a hearty and comforting meal perfect for busy days. Packed with flavorful Italian sausage, tender gnocchi, fresh spinach, and a creamy tomato broth, this slow-cooked soup combines classic Italian flavors in an easy-to-make recipe that requires minimal prep and delivers maximum taste.
Ingredients
Meat
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
Vegetables & Herbs
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
Broth & Liquids
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
Canned Goods
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
Carbohydrates
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen gnocchi
Spices & Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Garnish
- Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Drain any excess fat and transfer the cooked sausage to the Crock Pot.
- Add Base Ingredients: Add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juices), and dried Italian seasoning to the Crock Pot. Stir to combine all ingredients evenly.
- Slow Cook the Soup: Cover the Crock Pot and cook on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften thoroughly.
- Add Gnocchi: About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen gnocchi to the soup and stir well. Continue cooking on low or high until the gnocchi is tender, approximately 20 to 30 minutes.
- Finish with Spinach and Cream: Stir in the chopped spinach and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 10 minutes until the spinach is wilted and the soup develops a creamy texture.
- Season the Soup: Season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Adjust seasoning according to taste.
- Serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired, for an extra burst of flavor.
Notes
- You can use either mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your heat preference.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly or let the soup cook uncovered for a short time to thicken.
- For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk, though the soup will be less rich.
- Frozen spinach can be used as a substitute for fresh spinach, just add it during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Gnocchi cooks quickly, so make sure not to add it too early to avoid mushy texture.
