Hearty Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Sausage Gnocchi Soup is a comforting, slightly spicy soup with a rich, savory broth and soft, pillowy gnocchi. It’s a quick weeknight meal that delivers big flavor and satisfying texture in every spoonful.

Red pepper flakes and spicy Italian sausage add warmth and depth; omit or reduce the red pepper flakes if you prefer a milder dish. Gnocchi—small potato dumplings—bring a tender, almost pillow-like bite that pairs perfectly with the bold sausage and bright tomatoes. For convenience, store-bought gnocchi works beautifully and saves time.

Sausage Gnocchi Soup Ingredients

To make this flavorful gnocchi soup, gather the following ingredients (see the recipe card below for exact quantities):

  • Butter
  • Pork sausage — spicy Italian sausage is recommended; chicken sausage is an alternative
  • Yellow onion
  • Garlic
  • Fennel seeds
  • Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
  • Italian seasoning
  • Salt
  • Can of diced tomatoes
  • Chicken broth
  • Gnocchi (premade for ease)
  • Kale — baby spinach can be used instead
  • Parmesan cheese for serving
Sausage Gnocchi Soup Ingredients in bowls in a flay lay view

How to Make Gnocchi Soup

  1. In a large soup pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the sausage and chopped onion and cook until the sausage is browned and the onion is softened.
  2. Stir in the garlic, fennel seeds, red pepper flakes (if using), Italian seasoning, and salt. Cook briefly until fragrant.
  3. Add the diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for about 10 minutes to let the flavors meld.
  4. Stir in the gnocchi and chopped kale. Simmer for another 5–7 minutes, until the gnocchi are tender and the greens are wilted.
  5. Remove from the heat and serve immediately, topped with grated Parmesan cheese.
Sausage Gnocchi Soup recipe steps collage

Storage Instructions

Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. To freeze, place the cooled soup in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months. Reheat gently on the stovetop; if the gnocchi becomes too soft after freezing, consider adding fresh gnocchi when reheating.

Gnocchi Soup with sausage and kale

What to Serve with Sausage Gnocchi Soup

This soup works as a complete meal for smaller appetites, or serve it alongside simple Italian-inspired sides for a fuller spread. Some compatible sides include fresh bread, a crisp green salad, or cheesy rolls to soak up the broth.

  • Warm crusty bread or garlic bread
  • Simple green salad with a light vinaigrette
  • Roasted vegetables or a side of bruschetta
Sausage Pasta Soup
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Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Author: Emily Pecoraro
A spicy, comforting soup featuring savory sausage, tender gnocchi, and bright greens in a tomato-forward broth.
5 from 1 vote
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Prep Time 15
Cook Time 30
Total Time 45

Course Soup
Cuisine American

Servings 6
Calories 428 kcal

Equipment

  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • 8-inch chopping knife
  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven

Ingredients

  

  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 16 oz pork sausage
  • 1 yellow onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • ½ teaspoon fennel seeds
  • ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
  • 2 teaspoons Italian seasoning
  • 3/4 teaspoon salt
  • 15 oz diced tomatoes (canned)
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 16 oz gnocchi
  • 2 cups chopped kale
  • parmesan cheese for garnish

Instructions

 

  • Heat butter in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the sausage and onion and cook until browned.
  • Add the garlic, fennel, red pepper flakes, Italian seasoning, and salt; stir until fragrant.
  • Pour in diced tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.
  • Add the gnocchi and kale and cook 5–7 minutes more, until gnocchi are tender and kale is wilted.
  • Remove from heat and serve hot with grated Parmesan.

Nutrition

428 kcal per servingCarbohydrates: 34 gProtein: 17 gFat: 25 g

Nutrition information is an estimate calculated with online tools and should be used as a general guide.

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The recipe and photos contained herein are the property of the original author and are presented here for personal use.