If you’re craving comfort in a bowl, let me introduce you to Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup. This hearty, creamy soup brings together fluffy potato gnocchi, savory sausage, tender spinach, and a luscious Parmesan-cream broth—all with the magic of a slow cooker. It’s a dish that fills your kitchen with the most inviting aromas and turns a handful of simple ingredients into something absolutely irresistible. Whether you’re cooking for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend at home, Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup is destined to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this recipe is in its simplicity—every ingredient plays a vital role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color. From the robust sausage to the pillowy gnocchi and fresh greens, each addition transforms the soup into something special.
- Italian sausage: Choose mild or spicy depending on your preference; it sets the savory foundation for the soup.
- Onion: Chopped onion adds subtle sweetness and depth to the broth.
- Garlic: Minced garlic infuses every bite with aromatic warmth—don’t skip it!
- Chicken broth: The backbone of the soup, use a good-quality broth for the best flavor.
- Diced tomatoes: Canned tomatoes provide acidity and a pop of color, brightening up the entire dish.
- Frozen spinach: Convenient and nutritious, it melts right in without any fuss.
- Dried basil: Adds that unmistakable Italian herb aroma everyone loves.
- Dried oregano: Brings a classic Mediterranean undertone to the mix.
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional): For those who like a little kick, this is your secret weapon.
- Salt: Essential for pulling all the flavors together.
- Black pepper: Adds a subtle heat and balances the richness.
- Potato gnocchi: These tender dumplings soak up all the wonderful flavors—pure comfort!
- Heavy cream: The key to that dreamy, silky texture in every spoonful.
- Parmesan cheese: Grated Parmesan melts into the broth, making it extra savory and cheesy.
- Chopped fresh parsley: A sprinkle on top for a burst of color and freshness.
How to Make Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup
Step 1: Brown the Sausage
Start this flavorful journey by browning the Italian sausage in a skillet over medium heat. As it cooks, break it apart with a spoon until you have bite-sized crumbles and a nice golden color. This step is crucial because it not only cooks the meat through but also develops rich, caramelized flavor that will infuse your Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup from the very beginning. Once browned, drain any excess fat and transfer the sausage straight into your slow cooker.
Step 2: Layer in the Aromatics and Broth
Now it’s time to build the soup’s foundation. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic right on top of the sausage in the crock pot. Pour in the chicken broth, then add the diced tomatoes (with their juices), frozen spinach, dried basil, oregano, red pepper flakes (if you’re feeling spicy), salt, and black pepper. Give everything a gentle stir to combine the flavors—already, the aroma is starting to work its magic!
Step 3: Slow Cook to Perfection
Cover your crock pot and let it work its slow-cooking wonders. Set it on low for 4–6 hours, or use the high setting for 2–3 hours if you’re short on time. This allows all the ingredients to meld together, creating a deeply flavorful broth and tender vegetables in your Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup.
Step 4: Add the Gnocchi
About 30 minutes before you’re ready to serve, stir in the potato gnocchi. These pillowy dumplings need just 20–25 minutes to cook through and absorb the soup’s delicious flavors—no need to pre-cook them. Keep the lid on and let them become perfectly tender.
Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese
The final flourish comes with a swirl of heavy cream and a generous handful of grated Parmesan. Stir them into the soup just before serving, and watch as your Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup turns irresistibly creamy and rich. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed, then get ready to ladle up the comfort.
How to Serve Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup
Garnishes
A finishing touch can make all the difference! Sprinkle your Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup with freshly chopped parsley and extra Parmesan cheese for a pop of color and a punch of flavor. If you want to take it up a notch, add a drizzle of good olive oil or a few grinds of black pepper just before serving.
Side Dishes
This soup is hearty enough to stand on its own, but it’s even better with a side of crusty Italian bread or warm garlic knots for dipping. A simple green salad dressed with balsamic vinaigrette adds a fresh, crisp contrast to the creamy richness of the soup.
Creative Ways to Present
For a special touch, serve Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup in rustic bread bowls or ladle it into oversized mugs for a cozy, casual vibe. Hosting a dinner party? Offer a soup bar with various toppings—think extra cheese, red pepper flakes, or even crispy pancetta—so everyone can customize their bowl.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup keeps beautifully in the refrigerator for up to three days. As it sits, the soup may thicken a bit—just stir in a splash of chicken broth when reheating to bring it back to your preferred consistency.
Freezing
While you can freeze the soup, keep in mind that gnocchi can become a little softer after thawing. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the gnocchi, then add fresh gnocchi when reheating. Store in airtight containers and enjoy within two months for peak flavor.
Reheating
To reheat, simply warm the soup gently on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally. If it’s too thick, add a bit of broth or water to loosen it up. For single servings, microwaving works too—just heat in 30-second bursts, stirring in between until hot.
FAQs
Can I use turkey or chicken sausage instead of Italian sausage?
Absolutely! Turkey or chicken sausage makes a lighter alternative while still offering plenty of flavor. Choose your favorite variety—just be sure to remove any casings and brown the sausage before adding it to the crock pot.
Is it possible to make Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup gluten free?
Yes! Simply swap the regular potato gnocchi for your favorite gluten-free brand. Most major grocery stores carry gluten-free gnocchi these days, making this soup accessible to everyone at the table.
What other vegetables can I add?
Feel free to get creative—carrots, zucchini, or even chopped bell peppers work beautifully. Add them at the same time as the onions and garlic for extra color and nutrition in your Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Definitely. Omit the sausage and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add extra veggies or a can of cannellini beans for protein to keep the soup hearty and satisfying.
Will the soup thicken as it sits?
Yes, the gnocchi and cream will cause the soup to thicken as it cools. If you prefer a thinner soup when reheating leftovers, just stir in a bit more broth until you reach your desired consistency.
Final Thoughts
If you’re searching for a creamy, comforting meal that’s as easy as it is delicious, Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup is your answer. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, it’s a recipe you’ll want to make again and again. Give it a try and let it bring a little extra warmth and joy to your next mealtime!
Print
Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 4 to 6 hours (low) or 2 to 3 hours (high)
- Total Time: 4 hours 15 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Crock Pot / Slow Cooker
- Cuisine: Italian-American
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Crock Pot Italian Style Gnocchi Soup is a hearty, creamy, and flavorful slow-cooker meal packed with Italian sausage, tender gnocchi, spinach, and a blend of Italian herbs. Perfect for busy days, this comforting soup brings classic Italian-American flavors together for an easy, satisfying dish.
Ingredients
Meat and Vegetables
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, casings removed)
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (10 oz) package frozen spinach
Liquids and Canned Goods
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (14.5 oz) can diced tomatoes
- 1 cup heavy cream
Herbs, Spices, and Seasonings
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Carbohydrates and Cheese
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Garnish
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Cook the Sausage: In a skillet over medium heat, cook the Italian sausage until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess fat and transfer the sausage to the crock pot.
- Add Vegetables and Seasonings: Add chopped onion, minced garlic, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, frozen spinach, dried basil, dried oregano, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), salt, and black pepper to the crock pot with the sausage. Stir to combine all ingredients.
- Slow Cook: Cover and cook on low for 4 to 6 hours or on high for 2 to 3 hours, allowing flavors to meld and the vegetables to soften.
- Add Gnocchi: About 30 minutes before serving, stir in the potato gnocchi. Cover and cook until gnocchi is tender, about 20 to 25 minutes.
- Finish with Cream and Cheese: Stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed to your preference.
- Serve: Serve the soup hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley and additional Parmesan if desired for extra flavor.
Notes
- For a lighter version, substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream to reduce fat content.
- You can add other vegetables such as carrots or zucchini to increase nutritional value and variety.
- Leftovers store well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days but may thicken; thin with additional broth when reheating.
- To make this recipe gluten-free, use a gluten-free gnocchi brand.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 1/2 cups
- Calories: 410
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 860mg
- Fat: 26g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 11g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 25g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
