Craving a comforting and flavorful meal that warms you from the inside out? Look no further than this hearty Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup! This recipe blends the savory richness of Italian sausage with the pillowy softness of gnocchi, all simmered in a vibrant tomato broth infused with herbs and spices. Imagine the delicious aroma filling your kitchen – a blend of fragrant basil, earthy oregano, and the irresistible scent of sizzling sausage. This isn't just a soup; it's a culinary hug in a bowl, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend gathering.
Forget complicated recipes and lengthy prep times; this Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is surprisingly easy to make, using readily available ingredients. The simple yet satisfying flavors will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe thirds!). Ready to experience the magic? Let's dive into the step-by-step process to create this unforgettable soup.
Tools Needed
- Soup pot
- Cutting board
- Knife
Ingredients
- Italian turkey sausage: 1 package
- Beef bacon fat: 1 tablespoon
- Onion: 1 cup, diced
- Red bell pepper: 1 medium, diced
- Celery: 2 stalks, diced (include leafy tops)
- Salt: 1/4 teaspoon
- Black pepper: 1/4 teaspoon
- Minced garlic: 2 teaspoons
- Fennel seeds: 1 teaspoon
- Tomato paste: 2 tablespoons
- Italian seasoning: 2 teaspoons
- Red pepper flakes: optional
- Chicken broth: 4 cups (plus 1 cup extra)
- Crushed tomatoes: 1 (14.5 ounce) can
- Better than bouillon (chicken): 1 teaspoon
- Potato gnocchi: 1 package
- Fresh baby spinach: 2 cups
- Parmesan cheese: Grated, for garnish
- Olive oil or chicken fat: alternative to bacon fat
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1. Sauté Sausage and Vegetables
- Remove casing from Italian sausage. In a soup pot over medium heat, add bacon fat (or olive oil/chicken fat).
- Add sausage, chop and cook for 5-7 minutes until no longer pink.
- Add onion, red bell pepper, and celery; cook and stir for 3-4 minutes until onions soften.
- Add garlic, fennel seeds, tomato paste, and Italian seasoning; cook and stir for 1 minute until paste is incorporated.
Step 2. Simmer the Soup
- Add chicken broth and crushed tomatoes. Bring to a simmer.
- Add better than bouillon and stir. Simmer, covered, for 15 minutes.
Step 3. Cook Gnocchi and Spinach
- Add gnocchi, spinach, and extra chicken broth; simmer for 3-4 minutes until gnocchi is cooked.
Step 4. Season and Serve
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, garlic powder, or Italian seasoning.
- Garnish with Parmesan cheese and serve.
Read more: Italian Zucchini Soup with Parmesan Croutons: A Delicious Recipe
Tips
- If using sweet Italian sausage, add red pepper flakes for heat.
- Feel free to add other Italian seasonings like oregano, basil, or parsley.
- You can use fire-roasted diced tomatoes or tomato sauce instead of crushed tomatoes.
- Serve with a side salad and toasted garlic Parmesan bread for a complete meal.
Nutrition
- Calories: approximately 400-450
- Fat: 15-20g
- Carbs: 45-55g
- Protein: 25-30g
FAQs
1. Can I use different types of sausage?
Absolutely! Mild Italian sausage, spicy Italian sausage, or even chicken sausage would all work well. Just adjust the seasoning to your preference.
2. What if I don't have fresh gnocchi?
No problem! Frozen gnocchi works perfectly. Just add it during the last few minutes of cooking to prevent it from falling apart.
This Cozy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup is the perfect recipe for a comforting and satisfying meal any time of year. Enjoy the delicious flavors and the warmth it brings to your table. Now go forth and create your own culinary masterpiece!