This creamy gnocchi soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Packed with soft gnocchi, fresh veggies, and a rich, smooth broth, it’s comfort food at its finest.
Plus, it’s super easy to make—just toss everything in and let it simmer. You might even catch yourself sneaking extra gnocchi while it cooks! 🍜
I love serving this soup with some crusty bread on the side. It’s perfect for chilly evenings, and it always puts a smile on my face! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Olive Oil: This adds a nice base for sautéing. You can swap it with butter for a richer flavor, or use avocado oil for a different taste.
Bacon: I love the smoky flavor it brings! If you prefer a meatless option, try using mushrooms or diced smoked tofu for a similar depth.
Onion: A medium onion provides sweetness and richness. If you’re short on time, shallots or even green onions will work as a substitute.
Broth: Chicken broth offers great flavor, but vegetable broth is a fantastic swap for a vegetarian option. Homemade broth boosts taste too!
Gnocchi: The star of the soup! Fresh gnocchi is best, but you can use shelf-stable ones if that’s what you have on hand. You could even try a gluten-free version made from sweet potatoes or chickpeas.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients. You could replace it with kale or Swiss chard if you want something heartier.
Heavy Cream: For creaminess, use half-and-half or coconut milk if you’re dairy-free. Just keep in mind the flavor may change slightly.
How Do You Make Sure the Gnocchi Is Cooked Perfectly?
Cooking gnocchi is simple but needs your attention! You want them soft and fluffy, not mushy. Here’s how:
- Bring your broth to a rolling boil before adding gnocchi. This ensures they cook evenly.
- Once added, keep an eye on them. They usually float to the top when done—around 2-3 minutes.
- Use a slotted spoon to gently stir, preventing them from sticking.
- Don’t overcook; mushy gnocchi isn’t pleasant! Taste one to see if it’s ready.
Follow these steps, and you’ll have perfect gnocchi every time!
How to Make Creamy Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 ounces bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 package (16 ounces) potato gnocchi
- 3 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus extra for garnish
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy gnocchi soup takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes to have this delicious soup ready on your table!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Sauté the Bacon:
Start by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced bacon and let it cook until it turns crispy and golden. Use a slotted spoon to take the bacon out of the pot and set it aside, but be sure to leave the yummy rendered fat in the pot. This will add great flavor!
2. Cook the Aromatics:
Now, toss in the finely chopped onion and stir it around. Sauté until the onion becomes translucent, which takes about 3-4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and give it an additional 30 seconds of cooking until it smells amazing!
3. Add the Broth:
Next, pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth if you prefer) and bring it to a lovely boil.
4. Cook the Gnocchi:
Once the broth is boiling, add the gnocchi to the pot. Allow them to cook according to the package instructions. You’ll know they’re done when they float to the surface—this usually takes about 2-3 minutes!
5. Add the Spinach:
After the gnocchi are done, stir in the chopped spinach and let it cook for about 2 minutes until it wilts down and adds a pretty green color to your soup.
6. Make it Creamy:
Now, lower the heat and mix in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese, along with the cooked bacon pieces. Let the soup simmer gently for another 3-5 minutes until it’s all heated through and slightly thickened.
7. Season to Taste:
Don’t forget to season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking. Give it a stir!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Ladle the beautiful creamy soup into bowls and top it off with extra Parmesan cheese and chopped fresh parsley. Serve it hot alongside slices of crusty bread for a cozy meal!
Enjoy this rich, creamy, and comforting gnocchi soup! Perfect for chilly days ☀️🥣.
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just cook the frozen gnocchi according to the package instructions, adjusting the cooking time slightly—frozen gnocchi may take a minute or two longer to float to the surface.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Yes, you can prepare the soup base (without the cream) and store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it on the stove and stir in the heavy cream just before serving to keep it creamy!
How to Store Leftovers?
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water if it seems too thick!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth and omit the bacon. You can add extra veggies like mushrooms or carrots for additional flavor and substance.
