Cozy up to a bowl of pure comfort with this Creamy Gnocchi Soup! Picture pillowy gnocchi floating among vibrant veggies, tender chicken, and fresh spinach, all swirled together in a rich, velvety broth that’s impossible to resist. Whether you’re chasing away a chill or simply craving something soul-soothing, this dreamy soup brings together Italian-inspired flavors in one easy, heartwarming dish. It’s sure to become a staple you’ll want to share with everyone you love.

Creamy Gnocchi Soup Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for a handful of pantry staples and colorful produce, each adding its own special touch of flavor, texture, or pop of color. With just these simple ingredients, you’ll create a Creamy Gnocchi Soup that tastes like a hug in a bowl!

Unsalted butter: Adds luxurious richness and helps soften the veggies right from the start.
Olive oil: A splash of olive oil prevents the butter from burning and infuses Italian flavor.
Yellow onion: Its sweetness forms the aromatic backbone of the soup.
Carrots: These add subtle sweetness and vibrant orange color to every spoonful.
Celery: Brings a crisp, earthy note for classic soup balance.
Garlic cloves: Don’t hold back—the garlic is what makes the kitchen smell irresistible!
Dried thyme: This classic herb gives homey depth that pairs beautifully with the creaminess.
Dried basil: Adds a gentle sweetness that brightens the soup’s overall flavor.
Crushed red pepper flakes: For just a hint of warmth; totally optional, but highly recommended for some pep.
All-purpose flour: Thickens the soup to the most luscious, spoon-coating consistency.
Chicken or vegetable broth: Choose your favorite—either one makes the base deeply flavorful.
Half-and-half or heavy cream: Pick your preference for a silkier or even richer finish!
Potato gnocchi: The star of Creamy Gnocchi Soup; these tender bites make every spoonful extra satisfying.
Fresh baby spinach: Tossed in at the end, it wilts perfectly and adds gorgeous green color and nutrients.
Cooked shredded chicken (optional): Makes the soup hearty enough for a full meal, or skip it for a vegetarian version.
Salt and black pepper: Just the right amount brings all the flavors together.
Grated Parmesan cheese: Melts in for salty, nutty richness—don’t skip it!
Fresh parsley for garnish: Scattering these bright green flecks on top is the finishing touch!

How to Make Creamy Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sauté the Vegetables

Start by grabbing your favorite large pot or Dutch oven, and melt the butter with the olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Let everything mingle and soften for about 5–6 minutes, stirring now and then. This is where the aromatic magic really begins!

Step 2: Add the Flavors

Next, stir in the garlic along with the dried thyme, basil, and (if you’re feeling bold) those crushed red pepper flakes. Keep stirring and let them cook for about a minute; you’ll know it’s ready when the kitchen is filled with the most mouthwatering aroma.

Step 3: Make the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over your veggies and stir well so everything’s coated. The flour will soak up the butter and oil and create the base for the soup’s signature creaminess. Give it a good minute to lose any raw flour taste.

Step 4: Add the Broth and Simmer

Now, it’s time to pour in your broth slowly while whisking or stirring constantly—this helps everything go deliciously smooth. Raise the heat and bring it to a gentle simmer, letting the flavors meld and the soup thicken just a bit.

Step 5: Bring on the Cream, Gnocchi, and Spinach

Lower the heat, stir in your half-and-half or heavy cream, then add the gnocchi. Let them cook for 4–5 minutes, just until the gnocchi float to the top and become pillowy-tender. Toss in the fresh spinach and shredded chicken (if using), stirring gently until the spinach wilts and the chicken is heated through.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Season your Creamy Gnocchi Soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Remove from heat, and immediately stir in the grated Parmesan—it adds instant gourmet flair. Ladle into bowls and sprinkle each one with fresh parsley for that chef’s kiss of color!

How to Serve Creamy Gnocchi Soup

Garnishes

Dress up your Creamy Gnocchi Soup with extra fresh parsley, a dusting of Parmesan, or even a hint of cracked black pepper. A drizzle of good olive oil or a light grating of lemon zest can take it to another level of freshness. These little touches feel like love in a bowl!

Side Dishes

The soup is hearty enough on its own, but it absolutely shines next to thick slices of toasted artisan bread, warm garlic knots, or a crisp mixed green salad. For a cozy Italian supper, you can’t go wrong with a plate of prosciutto and melon or some marinated olives on the side!

Creative Ways to Present

Why not serve Creamy Gnocchi Soup in rustic bread bowls for extra wow factor? Or ladle it into cute mini cocottes for a dinner party starter. You can even top each bowl with homemade croutons or crispy pancetta if you want to add some crunch and pizzazz.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Cover and refrigerate any leftover soup for up to 3 days. It thickens as it sits, so don’t be surprised if it turns extra luscious—just add a splash of broth or water when reheating to restore that creamy consistency.

Freezing

While Creamy Gnocchi Soup is best enjoyed fresh because of the creamy base, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 2 months. Gnocchi may soften a bit after thawing, so try freezing just the base (before adding gnocchi and cream), then add those fresh when reheating.

Reheating

Warm the soup gently over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally. If it’s become too thick, simply add a bit more broth or water. Avoid boiling once the cream is in, as that can affect the texture.

FAQs

Can I make Creamy Gnocchi Soup vegetarian?

Absolutely! Just use vegetable broth and leave out the chicken. It’s every bit as flavorful and satisfying, thanks to the assortment of vegetables and herbs.

Do I need to cook store-bought gnocchi before adding?

Nope! Simply add the uncooked gnocchi straight into the simmering soup. They’ll cook perfectly in the creamy broth and absorb all those amazing flavors.

How can I make Creamy Gnocchi Soup gluten-free?

Swap the all-purpose flour for your favorite gluten-free flour blend, and make sure your gnocchi is gluten-free as well (many stores now offer this option).

What can I use instead of spinach?

Baby kale, Swiss chard, or even finely chopped escarole are all delicious alternatives. Just toss them in at the end so they wilt gently in the hot soup.

Can I make Creamy Gnocchi Soup ahead of time?

You sure can! It’s wonderful for meal prep. Just keep in mind the soup will thicken as it sits; when reheating, add a bit more broth to bring it back to its velvety best.

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for a way to bring warmth and joy to your dinner table, give Creamy Gnocchi Soup a try. It’s easy enough for a weeknight, special enough for guests, and delicious every single time—a guaranteed crowd-pleaser you’ll want to make again and again!

Creamy Gnocchi Soup Recipe

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4.7 from 16 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

Warm up with a comforting bowl of Creamy Gnocchi Soup, a delicious blend of tender gnocchi, chicken, spinach, and a creamy broth. This easy-to-make soup is perfect for a cozy night in or to impress guests with its hearty flavors.

Ingredients

Scale

For the Soup:

2 tablespoons unsalted butter
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
2 medium carrots, diced
2 celery stalks, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon dried thyme
1 teaspoon dried basil
1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
1/4 cup all-purpose flour
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
1 pound potato gnocchi
3 cups fresh baby spinach
1 cup cooked shredded chicken (optional)
Salt and black pepper to taste
1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Fresh parsley for garnish

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Instructions

Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, melt butter with olive oil. Sauté onion, carrots, and celery until softened.
Add Aromatics: Stir in garlic, thyme, basil, and red pepper flakes. Cook until fragrant.
Thicken Broth: Sprinkle flour over vegetables, then whisk in broth until smooth. Bring to a simmer.
Cook Gnocchi: Stir in cream and gnocchi, cooking until gnocchi float and are tender.
Finish Soup: Add spinach and chicken, if using. Season with salt and pepper. Remove from heat, stir in Parmesan, and garnish with parsley.