Potato Gnocchi Soup is the epitome of comfort food, combining the hearty, pillowy texture of homemade gnocchi with a rich, flavorful broth. Imagine dipping a spoon into a steaming bowl of creamy soup, with each bite soft, warm gnocchi floating gracefully among vegetables, herbs, and a savory base. This soup not only satisfies hunger but does so with elegance and depth. Whether you’re curling up with a bowl during a cold winter day or serving it at a cozy family dinner, Potato Gnocchi Soup will quickly become a favorite in your culinary repertoire.
This dish is a wonderful way to bring the flavors of Italy to your kitchen, offering a satisfying balance between the chewiness of gnocchi and the richness of the soup base. And the best part? It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, even for beginners. Below, I’ll guide you through the recipe, break down each ingredient, offer expert tips for perfecting the dish, and suggest variations to keep it exciting. Let’s dive right in!
Potato Gnocchi Soup Recipe
This Potato Gnocchi Soup recipe is the perfect balance of creamy, savory, and indulgent. Each spoonful feels like a hug for your taste buds. Here’s how you can make it:
Ingredients Needed
- 1 lb (450g) Potato Gnocchi – The star of the show! You can use homemade or store-bought gnocchi, whichever you prefer.
- 1 tbsp Olive Oil – For sautéing and adding richness to the base.
- 1 medium Onion – Chopped. This will help create a fragrant, flavorful base for the soup.
- 2-3 Garlic Cloves – Minced. Garlic infuses the soup with a deep, savory flavor.
- 2 Carrots – Chopped. Adds sweetness and texture to the soup.
- 2 Celery Stalks – Chopped. For that classic soup vegetable crunch and fresh flavor.
- 1 large Russet Potato – Peeled and diced. This adds creaminess and heartiness to the soup base.
- 4 cups Chicken or Vegetable Broth – The foundation of the soup. Chicken broth gives it a rich depth, but vegetable broth works wonderfully for a lighter, vegetarian version.
- 1 cup Heavy Cream – For a luxuriously creamy texture. You can substitute with milk for a lighter version, but it won’t have the same richness.
- 1 cup Spinach – Fresh spinach adds color, vitamins, and a slight bitterness that balances the creamy soup.
- Salt and Pepper – To taste, ensuring all the flavors come together perfectly.
- Parmesan Cheese – Grated, for garnish. Adds a salty, nutty finish when sprinkled on top before serving.
Cooking Instructions
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Prepare The Base
- In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the chopped onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté until the vegetables soften and the onions become translucent (about 5-7 minutes).
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Add The Potatoes
- Toss in the diced russet potato and stir. Let it cook for another 3-4 minutes to slightly brown the edges.
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Broth Time
- Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, lower the heat and let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes or until the potatoes are tender.
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Incorporate The Cream
- Add the heavy cream and stir. Allow it to simmer for another 5 minutes, ensuring everything melds together into a creamy soup base.
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Cook The Gnocchi
- Gently stir in the gnocchi. They should cook in the broth for 2-4 minutes, or until they float to the surface (this means they’re done). Be careful not to overcook them, as they can become mushy if left too long.
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Final Touches
- Once the gnocchi are floating, add in the spinach and cook for another minute, just until it wilts.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Serve
- Ladle the soup into bowls, and sprinkle with fresh, grated parmesan cheese for that final burst of flavor.
Ingredient Insights
- Potato Gnocchi: Gnocchi are traditionally made from a mix of potatoes, flour, and eggs. Their texture is soft yet slightly chewy, making them perfect for soups because they absorb flavors without falling apart. For the most authentic flavor, you can make your own gnocchi, but store-bought versions work just as well, especially when time is short.
- Russet Potatoes: These potatoes are ideal for making gnocchi and for soup bases. They have a starchy quality that helps thicken the broth and add creaminess when they break down. Their light, fluffy texture makes them perfect for creating a smooth soup.
- Spinach: Adding fresh spinach to the soup not only provides a fresh pop of color, but it also adds a slight bitter contrast that balances out the richness of the cream and gnocchi. You could also swap for kale if you prefer something heartier.
Expert Tips
- Don’t Overcook the Gnocchi: Gnocchi are delicate, and when they’re added to the soup, they will cook quickly. They should float to the top in 2-3 minutes. Once they do, they’re ready. If you leave them in the soup too long, they may become mushy.
- Sauté the Vegetables Well: The key to a flavorful soup is in the base. Make sure you properly sauté the onions, garlic, and other vegetables until they’re softened and slightly caramelized. This step builds a deep, savory foundation for the soup.
- Cream Substitute: If you want a lighter version of this soup, you can replace the heavy cream with half-and-half or even whole milk. However, the richness and creaminess of heavy cream make this dish feel luxurious.
- Customize with Herbs: Fresh thyme, rosemary, or a bay leaf can be added during the simmering stage for extra depth of flavor. Be sure to remove any whole herbs before serving.
Recipe Variations
- Vegetarian Version: You can easily make this soup vegetarian by swapping out the chicken broth for vegetable broth. You can also add a variety of vegetables such as zucchini, mushrooms, or bell peppers to make it more hearty.
- Meat Lovers’ Delight: For a meatier version, try adding cooked Italian sausage or bacon. Brown the sausage in the pot before adding the vegetables to let the fat render and infuse the soup with extra flavor.
- Spicy Kick: If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the soup. It’ll give the dish a nice, zesty contrast to the creamy texture.
- Herb-Infused Broth: For a more aromatic soup, try infusing your broth with fresh herbs like thyme or basil while it simmers. Just remember to remove the herbs before serving.
Final Words
Potato Gnocchi Soup is one of those dishes that feel comforting, yet sophisticated. The gnocchi is soft, the soup is creamy, and the vegetables bring just the right amount of texture and freshness. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile-whether you keep it classic or throw in a few variations, you’ll always end up with something delicious.
It’s a meal that works perfectly for a cozy weeknight dinner or as a heartwarming dish for guests. Its simplicity makes it a great weeknight go-to, but it’s also elegant enough to impress at a dinner party.
FAQs
What Are The Main Ingredients Needed For Potato Gnocchi Soup?
The main ingredients for potato gnocchi soup include potato gnocchi, potatoes, vegetable or chicken broth, onions, garlic, carrots, celery, spinach (or kale), and heavy cream. You may also add seasonings like thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
Can I Use Store-bought Gnocchi For This Soup?
Yes, you can use store-bought potato gnocchi for the soup. It saves time and still provides a delicious result. If you’d like, you can also make homemade gnocchi for a more authentic touch.
Is It Necessary To Peel The Potatoes For Potato Gnocchi Soup?
Peeling the potatoes is optional. If you prefer a rustic texture, you can leave the skins on. However, peeling the potatoes will result in a smoother soup. It is important to chop them evenly to ensure uniform cooking.
Can I Make The Soup Ahead Of Time?
Yes, potato gnocchi soup can be made ahead of time. You can prepare the soup and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add the gnocchi last as they can become overly soft if stored for too long.
How Do I Prevent The Gnocchi From Becoming Too Soft In The Soup?
To prevent the gnocchi from becoming too soft, add them near the end of the cooking process. Gnocchi cook quickly and can turn mushy if overcooked, so simmer them for about 2-3 minutes before serving.
Can I Make Potato Gnocchi Soup Vegetarian Or Vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this soup vegetarian or vegan. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth and substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk, almond milk, or a plant-based cream alternative.
What Type Of Broth Is Best For Potato Gnocchi Soup?
The best broth for potato gnocchi soup depends on your preference. Chicken broth offers a rich, savory flavor, while vegetable broth provides a lighter, plant-based option. Both work well, but the choice depends on dietary restrictions and flavor preference.
Can I Add Other Vegetables To The Potato Gnocchi Soup?
Yes, you can add other vegetables to the soup. Some great options include leeks, zucchini, peas, or corn. Just make sure to chop them into small pieces so they cook evenly with the other ingredients.
What Should I Serve With Potato Gnocchi Soup?
Potato gnocchi soup pairs well with a crusty loaf of bread, garlic bread, or a simple side salad. For extra richness, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese can be added to the soup just before serving.
Can I Freeze Potato Gnocchi Soup?
Potato gnocchi soup can be frozen, but the gnocchi may lose some of their texture once thawed. If you plan to freeze the soup, it’s best to freeze the broth and vegetables separately from the gnocchi. Add the gnocchi when reheating the soup.