This creamy gnocchi soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! It’s filled with soft, pillowy gnocchi and lots of tasty veggies in a rich, flavorful broth.
Making this soup is a breeze—it’s ready in no time! I love tossing in extra spinach for color and nutrition. It’s perfect for chilly days or any time you need cozy comfort! 😊
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gnocchi: The star of this soup! Using refrigerated gnocchi makes it quick and easy. If you can’t find gnocchi, small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini work well, just keep an eye on cooking time!
Bacon: Adds great flavor. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon or even smoked paprika can be a tasty substitute. For vegetarian versions, skip the meat and use olive oil for sautéing.
Heavy Cream: This gives the soup its creaminess. If you’re looking for lighter options, half-and-half or whole milk could be used, though the texture will be less rich. For dairy-free, coconut milk works nicely!
Spinach: Fresh spinach is fantastic for color and health benefits. You can substitute with kale or frozen spinach if needed. Just make sure to thaw and drain the frozen kind first!
How Do I Sauté Onions and Garlic Without Burning Them?
Sautéing can be tricky, but a few tips can help! Start with a medium heat to allow the onions to soften without browning too quickly.
- Use enough oil or fat—bacon drippings work great here!
- Keep stirring to distribute the heat evenly and avoid sticking.
- If they start to brown too fast, reduce the heat slightly. Patience pays off for perfect, soft onions!
By following these tips, you’ll have a bowl of delicious creamy gnocchi soup that’s comforting and satisfying!
Delicious Creamy Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
Base Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 4 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Soup Components:
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) refrigerated gnocchi
- 3 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Seasoning:
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy gnocchi soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and 20 minutes to cook, making the total time around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick and delightful meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Start with the Bacon:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the chopped bacon and cook until it’s crispy and browned, about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside. Leave the bacon drippings in the pot for added flavor.
2. Sauté the Aromatics:
Next, add the diced onion to the pot with the bacon drippings. Sauté the onions until they’re soft and translucent, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another 30 seconds, just until the garlic becomes fragrant.
3. Create the Soup Base:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This is where all the flavors start to come together!
4. Add the Gnocchi:
Add the refrigerated gnocchi to the simmering broth. Let them cook until they float to the surface, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Floating gnocchi means they’re perfectly cooked!
5. Stir in Cream and Spinach:
Now it’s time to make it creamy! Stir in the heavy cream and the chopped spinach. Cook for an additional 2 minutes, just until the spinach wilts and the soup is heated through.
6. Final Touches:
Mix in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts into the soup, combining all that delicious flavors. Season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, and don’t forget to top each bowl with the reserved crispy bacon, and an extra sprinkle of black pepper or Parmesan cheese if you like. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
This creamy gnocchi soup is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying. Perfect for a cozy dinner! 😊
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi in This Recipe?
Yes! If you have frozen gnocchi, you can add them directly to the simmering broth without thawing. Just extend the cooking time by a couple of minutes until they float to the top, indicating they’re cooked through.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave. If the soup thickens while stored, you may need to add a bit of broth or water to bring it back to the right consistency.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! Just skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You could also add extra vegetables like carrots or mushrooms for more flavor and texture.
What Can I Pair With This Soup?
This creamy gnocchi soup pairs wonderfully with a crisp green salad or some crusty bread for dipping! It’s hearty enough on its own, but a nice side can elevate the meal even more!
