If you are looking for a hearty, comforting meal that combines the best flavors of Italy with the ease of slow cooking, you have to try this Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup Recipe. It’s a delightful medley of savory Italian sausage, tender gnocchi, and fresh spinach, all simmered in a rich, creamy broth that feels like a warm hug on a chilly day. This soup not only brings incredible flavors to your table but also offers the convenience of letting your Crock Pot work its magic while you focus on other things. Trust me, once you taste this, it will quickly become one of your go-to recipes for busy nights and special family dinners.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Preparing this Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup Recipe is wonderfully straightforward because each ingredient plays a crucial role in creating layers of flavor, texture, and color that make the soup irresistible. Whether it’s the spicy or mild Italian sausage, the fresh spinach, or the creamy addition of heavy cream, every component shines without fuss.
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy): Adds deep, savory notes and a bit of spice if you like that kick.
- 1 medium onion, chopped: Brings a natural sweetness that balances the hearty flavors.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses the soup with aromatic depth and warmth.
- 4 cups chicken broth: Creates the flavorful base that the rest of the ingredients mingle in.
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained: Offers bright acidity and vibrant red color for visual appeal and taste.
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen gnocchi: Provides delightful pillowy texture that makes this soup stand out.
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped: Adds freshness, color, and a subtle earthy flavor.
- 1/2 cup heavy cream: Makes the broth luxuriously creamy and smooth.
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning: Brings all those classic Italian herbs together for authentic flavor.
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional): A tiny bit of heat that wakes up the palate if you’re up for it.
- Salt and pepper, to taste: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors.
- Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional): Adds a nutty, cheesy finish that’s simply irresistible.
How to Make Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Brown the Italian Sausage
Start by cooking the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. Break it apart as it cooks so it browns evenly and becomes crumbly. This browning process builds a robust foundation of flavor for the soup. Once browned, drain any excess fat to keep the soup from becoming greasy, then transfer the sausage to your Crock Pot.
Step 2: Add the Aromatics and Broth
Next, toss the chopped onion and minced garlic right into the Crock Pot along with the chicken broth, undrained diced tomatoes, and dried Italian seasoning. Give it a good stir so all those ingredients start mingling. This combination sets the stage for the rich and flavorful broth you’ll soon enjoy.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Soup Base
Cover your Crock Pot and let everything cook on low for 6 hours or high for 3 hours. This slow simmer allows the flavors to deepen and the ingredients to meld into one unforgettable soup base. The aroma during this stage will have your kitchen smelling like an Italian trattoria!
Step 4: Add the Gnocchi
About 30 minutes before mealtime, stir in the frozen gnocchi. These little doughy pillows cook quickly and will soak up the soup’s flavors, providing a wonderfully tender bite. Keep the Crock Pot on your chosen setting and let the gnocchi soften and swell in the broth.
Step 5: Stir in Spinach and Cream
Once the gnocchi is tender, add the chopped fresh spinach and heavy cream. Spinach wilts quickly, lending vibrant color and a touch of earthiness. The cream makes the soup velvety smooth and luxurious without overpowering the other flavors. Let it cook for an additional 10 minutes until everything is perfectly combined.
Step 6: Season to Perfection
Finally, season your soup with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if you want a little heat. This step lets you customize the soup to your taste, ensuring each spoonful is just right.
Step 7: Serve Hot with Optional Garnish
Ladle the soup into bowls and finish with a sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. This little touch adds an extra burst of savory goodness that completes the dish beautifully.
How to Serve Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Adding garnishes like freshly grated Parmesan, a pinch of chopped fresh basil, or even a drizzle of good-quality olive oil takes this soup to the next level. Each garnish enhances the flavors and presentation, making your bowl feel restaurant-worthy at home.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty Italian bread or garlic knots to soak up every last bit of broth. A simple arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette also complements the richness, offering a fresh contrast to the creamy soup.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve the soup in individual mini bread bowls for a charming, rustic look perfect for entertaining. You can also top each bowl with a swirl of pesto or a few toasted pine nuts for an unexpected texture and flavor twist that will impress your guests.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making the next meal just as delicious, if not more so. Be mindful that the gnocchi may become a bit softer after chilling.
Freezing
You can freeze the soup for up to 2 months, but for best texture, consider freezing the soup and gnocchi separately. Spinach and cream-based soups can sometimes separate upon thawing, so stirring well while reheating will help bring it back together.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently to prevent sticking and maintain the creamy texture. If the soup thickens too much, add a splash of broth or water. Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can cook unevenly.
FAQs
Can I use turkey sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey sausage is a leaner option that still packs plenty of flavor. Just make sure to choose a well-seasoned variety to keep the soup flavorful.
Is it necessary to add the heavy cream?
While the heavy cream creates that rich, velvety texture that makes this soup special, you can omit it or substitute with half-and-half or a creamy non-dairy alternative if you prefer a lighter soup.
Can fresh gnocchi be used instead of frozen?
Yes, fresh gnocchi works wonderfully and will cook even faster. Just keep an eye on cooking times to prevent them from becoming mushy in the Crock Pot.
What can I substitute for chicken broth?
Vegetable broth is a great substitute if you want a lighter or vegetarian-friendly base. Just ensure it’s well-seasoned to maintain flavor depth.
Can I add other vegetables to this soup?
For sure! Mushrooms, zucchini, or bell peppers would all complement the flavors nicely. Add them at the beginning with the other ingredients so they cook thoroughly.
Final Thoughts
This Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup Recipe is pure comfort in a bowl that feels homey and special at the same time. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekends, inviting you to savor every spoonful of rich Italian-inspired goodness. I can’t recommend it enough—once you try it, this soup will become a treasured favorite in your recipe collection. Give it a go, and prepare to fall in love!
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Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 3 hours (high) or 6 hours (low) plus 40 minutes additional cooking with gnocchi, spinach, and cream
- Total Time: 3 hours 50 minutes (high) or 6 hours 50 minutes (low)
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Slow Cooking
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This comforting Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup is a hearty and flavorful one-pot meal featuring browned Italian sausage, aromatic vegetables, tender gnocchi, and fresh spinach in a creamy tomato-based broth. Slow-cooked to perfection, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner with minimal prep.
Ingredients
Sausage and Vegetables
- 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Base
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes, undrained
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian seasoning
Additional Ingredients
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1/2 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Parmesan cheese, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Brown the Sausage: In a skillet, cook the Italian sausage over medium heat until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon throughout the cooking process. Drain any excess fat to keep the soup lighter, then transfer the cooked sausage to the Crock Pot.
- Add Vegetables and Broth: To the Crock Pot, add the chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes with their juices, and dried Italian seasoning. Stir everything together to combine the flavors evenly.
- Slow Cook the Soup: Cover the Crock Pot and cook the soup on low for 6 hours or on high for 3 hours, allowing all ingredients to meld and the flavors to deepen.
- Add Gnocchi: About 30 minutes before serving, add the frozen gnocchi directly into the Crock Pot. Stir to distribute them evenly, then continue cooking until the gnocchi is tender, about 20 to 30 minutes.
- Finish with Spinach and Cream: Stir in the chopped fresh spinach and heavy cream. Cook for an additional 10 minutes with the lid off, allowing the spinach to wilt and the soup to become rich and creamy.
- Season and Adjust: Taste the soup and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired, adjusting for preferred heat and saltiness.
- Serve and Garnish: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with freshly grated Parmesan cheese for an extra layer of flavor, serving immediately.
Notes
- You can use either mild or spicy Italian sausage depending on your preferred heat level.
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream or omit cream entirely.
- The red pepper flakes are optional but add a subtle kick to the soup.
- Fresh spinach can be substituted with kale or other leafy greens if preferred.
- Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop.
