This creamy gnocchi soup is warm and comforting, filled with delicious little dumplings that just melt in your mouth. It’s like a cozy hug in a bowl!
Every time I make this soup, I can’t help but sneak a bite before serving. It’s just so good! I love adding a sprinkle of cheese on top for an extra treat!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: A great base for sautéing! You can replace it with butter for a richer flavor or any other oil you prefer, like avocado oil.
Bacon: This adds a delicious smokiness to the soup. If you’re vegetarian or want a lighter option, try using turkey bacon or omit it entirely and add smoked paprika for flavor.
Gnocchi: The star of the soup! Use store-bought for convenience, but if you’re feeling adventurous, homemade gnocchi can elevate the dish. Use gluten-free gnocchi if needed.
Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its creaminess. For a lighter option, substitute with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative like coconut cream.
Parmesan Cheese: Freshly grated is best for flavor! If you’re avoiding dairy, nutritional yeast can add a similar cheesiness while keeping it vegan.
How Do You Cook Gnocchi Perfectly in Soup?
Cooking gnocchi in soup is quick and easy! Just follow these steps to ensure they are tender and hold their shape:
- Wait until the broth is boiling before adding the gnocchi. This helps them cook evenly.
- Cook the gnocchi according to their package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they float to the surface.
- Avoid overcooking as they can become mushy. Check one or two gnocchi to see if they are tender!
By following these tips, your gnocchi will have a perfect texture, making the soup even more delightful!
How to Make Creamy Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 ounces bacon, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
Soup Components:
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious creamy gnocchi soup takes about 30 minutes in total—10 minutes for preparation and 20 minutes for cooking. It’s perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside. Make sure to leave the rendered bacon fat in the pot for flavor!
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the pot. Sauté them together until the onion is soft and translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. This will make your soup smell amazing!
3. Add the Broth and Herbs:
Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the dried basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Bring everything to a boil so the flavors can combine nicely.
4. Cook the Gnocchi:
Once you see the broth boiling, carefully add the potato gnocchi. Cook them according to the package instructions, usually around 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the top and are tender. It’s that simple!
5. Stir in the Cream:
Turn the heat down to low and pour in the heavy cream. Let the soup warm gently, making sure not to boil it after the cream is added to keep it smooth and creamy!
6. Add Spinach and Bacon:
Throw in the chopped spinach and the crispy bacon you set aside earlier. Stir the mixture until the spinach wilts, which should only take about 2 minutes. You’re almost there!
7. Final Touches:
Remove the pot from heat and mix in the grated Parmesan cheese. Stir until it’s melted and completely incorporated into the soup.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the soup into bowls and give it a light sprinkle of additional Parmesan and freshly ground black pepper if you like. Serve hot with some crusty bread or garlic toast on the side for dipping!
Enjoy your comforting and creamy bowl of gnocchi soup! It’s perfect for warming you up on a chilly day.
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi Instead of Fresh?
Absolutely! Frozen gnocchi can be used directly without thawing. Just add them to the boiling broth according to the package instructions, and they’ll cook perfectly!
Can I Substitute the Heavy Cream?
Yes! If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can replace heavy cream with half-and-half or a plant-based cream alternative like coconut cream. Just keep in mind that this may slightly change the flavor and texture.
How Should I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring occasionally until heated through.
Is This Soup Suitable for Meal Prep?
Definitely! You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the fridge. Just keep the gnocchi separate if you plan to reheat, as they are best cooked fresh to avoid getting too soft.
