Copycat Gnocchi Soup Recipe

Gnocchi soup is a cozy, comforting dish that brings together the soft, pillowy texture of gnocchi with the hearty warmth of a soup base. Imagine slurping up a velvety broth with tender gnocchi floating around, paired with savory vegetables, herbs, and a subtle richness that coats your tongue. It’s one of those meals that wraps you up in a comforting hug, especially on chilly days when all you want is something satisfying and nourishing. What makes this soup even more irresistible is its versatility and how easy it is to make from scratch.

While there are many variations of gnocchi soup, today we’re diving into a copycat version of one of the most popular comfort foods out there. If you’ve ever craved a hearty, creamy soup with a bit of Italian flair, this recipe is going to tick all the boxes.

Now, let’s break down the recipe. This is a copycat gnocchi soup that’s inspired by the one you may find in your favorite Italian-themed restaurant, with a few tweaks to make it just right for your kitchen. It’s a balanced dish with a lovely, rich broth, fresh veggies, and, of course, tender gnocchi that absorb all the flavors.

The beauty of this soup is how easily it can be prepared, using ingredients that you may already have on hand. So, let’s jump into the ingredients and get cooking!

Ingredients Needed

For this soup, we’re working with a combination of pantry staples and fresh ingredients to get the perfect balance of flavors. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 tablespoon olive oil: For sautéing the vegetables.
1 medium onion, diced: Adds a mild sweetness and depth to the soup.
3 garlic cloves, minced: Infuses the broth with that essential garlic flavor.
3 medium carrots, diced: Adds some color and a gentle sweetness.
2 celery stalks, diced: Provides that crisp, refreshing flavor that balances the other veggies.
1 teaspoon dried thyme: A savory, earthy herb that complements the other flavors.
1 teaspoon dried rosemary: A warm, aromatic herb to elevate the broth.
4 cups chicken broth: Forms the base of the soup, adding richness.
2 cups whole milk: For a creamy texture without being too heavy.
1 cup heavy cream: To make the soup luscious and indulgent.
16 oz package of gnocchi: The star of the dish, these little potato dumplings add heartiness to the soup.
1 cup baby spinach (optional): A fresh burst of greenery to balance the richness.
Salt and pepper to taste: To season and bring all the flavors together.
Freshly grated Parmesan cheese: For topping, bringing a salty, nutty finish to the soup.

Cooking Instructions

Now that you’ve got all your ingredients gathered, let’s get cooking! The process is straightforward but requires some patience to allow the flavors to develop fully.

Prepare the vegetables: Begin by heating the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and fragrant.
Add the garlic, carrots, and celery: Toss in the minced garlic, diced carrots, and celery. Stir to combine, and cook for another 4-5 minutes, allowing the vegetables to soften and absorb all those delicious aromas.
Season the soup base: Sprinkle in the dried thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper. Let the herbs bloom by cooking them for about a minute, stirring them into the vegetables.
Add the broth and bring to a simmer: Pour in the chicken broth, stirring to combine. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for 10-15 minutes, so the vegetables become tender and the flavors meld together.
Add the milk and cream: Pour in the whole milk and heavy cream, stirring to create a creamy base. Let the soup continue to simmer for another 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Cook the gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the soup and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes, until they float to the top. This signals that they’re done.
Finish with spinach: If you’re using spinach, stir it into the soup just before serving. It’ll wilt into the broth and add a fresh burst of color and nutrition.
Serve and garnish: Ladle the soup into bowls, and finish with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese. The cheese will melt into the soup, adding an extra layer of richness and flavor.

Ingredient Insights

Each ingredient in this gnocchi soup plays a crucial role in creating the perfect balance of flavors:

Gnocchi: These soft, pillowy dumplings are made from potatoes, flour, and eggs. They absorb the flavors of the broth and bring an irresistible texture to the soup. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can use store-bought gnocchi, but making your own from scratch takes this dish to another level of authenticity.
Olive Oil: Besides its role in sautéing, olive oil is a great source of healthy fats. It also contributes to the overall flavor profile, offering a subtle, fruity note to the soup.
Chicken Broth: A good-quality chicken broth forms the backbone of this soup. It’s rich in flavor, providing a savory, umami base that complements the gnocchi perfectly.
Milk and Cream: These are your creamy elements, creating a silky texture in the broth. The combination of both is key to achieving a soup that’s smooth and not too thick.
Herbs and Vegetables: Thyme, rosemary, carrots, and celery not only add depth to the flavor but also a lovely, aromatic profile that makes each bite feel more complex.

Expert Tips

Don’t overcook the gnocchi: Gnocchi cooks quickly-just a couple of minutes. If you leave them in the broth too long, they’ll become soggy. Once they float to the top, they’re ready to go.
Use homemade broth for extra depth: If you have the time, make your own chicken broth or use bone broth for a richer flavor. The homemade variety is far superior in taste compared to store-bought, and it adds a personal touch to your dish.
Add protein: If you want to make the soup even heartier, consider adding cooked chicken, sausage, or even bacon. Just toss it into the soup when you add the gnocchi.
Adjust the creaminess: If you prefer a lighter soup, reduce the amount of cream and increase the broth. If you like your soup extra creamy, feel free to add more cream or even a dollop of mascarpone.
Storage and reheating: This soup stores well in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or milk since the gnocchi may absorb some of the liquid over time.

Recipe Variations

While this version is delicious on its own, there are plenty of ways to customize the gnocchi soup to fit your tastes:

Vegetarian Version: Omit the chicken broth and use vegetable broth instead. You can also skip the bacon or sausage and load up on more vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, or mushrooms.
Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to introduce some heat into the soup. This gives it an exciting kick and a little extra depth.
Vegan Version: Swap the heavy cream for coconut cream and use plant-based milk, such as almond or oat milk. Use vegan gnocchi or make your own to keep it plant-based.
Lemon Zest: For a refreshing zing, grate a little lemon zest over the soup just before serving. It’ll cut through the richness and add a citrusy brightness.
Herb Variations: Instead of rosemary and thyme, try adding fresh basil or oregano for a different twist. You can also sprinkle fresh herbs over the top just before serving for a burst of color.

Final Words

This gnocchi soup recipe is all about simplicity, comfort, and flavor. The ingredients come together effortlessly to create a meal that’s perfect for busy weeknights or leisurely weekends. Whether you’re a novice cook or a seasoned chef, the step-by-step process ensures that anyone can recreate this delicious dish at home.

Copycat Gnocchi Soup Recipe