This recipe is a delightful combination of flavors from hearty Italian sausage, pillowy gnocchi, and tangy tomato soup. The soup is enriched with a medley of vegetables, making it a comforting, filling, and nutritious meal. It's perfect for a family dinner or a cozy get-together, and its warmth is sure to make you feel at home.
This recipe involves ingredients that are generally easy to find. The exception might be gnocchi, which are small Italian dumplings made from potato, semolina, or flour, usually served with sauce or in soups. They can be found in the pasta aisle of most supermarkets. Additionally, you might want to check the produce section for fresh baby spinach, and the spice aisle for Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes.
Ingredients for Italian Sausage, Gnocchi, and Tomato Soup
Italian sausage: A key ingredient that adds a hearty, flavorful base to the soup.
Olive oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables and browning the sausage.
Onion, carrots, celery, and bell peppers: These vegetables add a nutritional boost and depth to the soup.
Garlic: Adds an aromatic touch.
Dry red wine: Used for deglazing the pot and adding a depth of flavor.
Chicken stock: Forms the broth base of the soup.
Tomato sauce and tomatoes: Gives the soup its tangy tomato character.
Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes: Adds herbs and a little heat, respectively.
Gnocchi: The pillowy Italian dumplings that give the soup its body.
Spinach: Adds a fresh, leafy touch to the dish.
Parmesan cheese, fresh parsley, and basil: Used for garnishing and adding a final layer of flavor.
One reader, Hillard Kemper says:
This Italian sausage, gnocchi, and tomato soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the gnocchi adds a delightful texture. It's a perfect blend of savory and hearty, and it's become a family favorite. I highly recommend trying it out!
Techniques Required for Making This Soup
How to brown the sausage: Cook the sausage in a large stockpot over medium-high heat, crumbling it with a spoon as you go until it is cooked through.
How to sauté the vegetables: Sauté the onion for 3 minutes, then add the carrots, celery, bell peppers, and garlic, and sauté for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
How to deglaze the pot: Add in the wine and use a wooden spoon to deglaze the pot, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom.
How to simmer the soup: Continue cooking until the soup reaches a simmer. Then reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 5 to 10 more minutes, or until the vegetables are completely tender.
How to cook the gnocchi: Add in the cooked sausage, gnocchi, and spinach or kale, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the gnocchi begins to float and is cooked through.
How to season the soup: Taste and season with salt and pepper and/or extra crushed red pepper flakes as needed.
How To Make Italian Sausage, Gnocchi, and Tomato Soup
Prepare a hearty and flavorful soup recipe for cold days with this Italian Sausage, Gnocchi, and Tomato Soup made with a variety of herbs and spices.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbground Italian sausagespicy or mild
- 1tbspolive oildivided
- 1white onionmedium, diced
- 2carrotslarge, diced
- 3celery stalksdiced
- 2bell peppersdiced
- 5garlic clovespeeled and minced
- ½cupdry redor white wine
- 4cupschicken stock
- 30oztomato sauce
- 15oztomatoesdiced
- 1tbspItalian Seasoning
- 1tspred pepper flakesor more to taste
- 16ozgnocchi
- 2fresh baby spinachor roughly-chopped kale
- Parmesan cheesefreshly-grated, optional topping
- fresh parsleyfinely-chopped, optional topping
- basiloptional topping
Instructions
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Brown the sausage in a large stockpot over medium-high heat crumbling it with a spoon as you g until it is cooked through.
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Use a slotted spoon to transfer the sausage to a separate plate, leaving behind about 1 to 2 tablespoons of grease in the pot. Remove any excess grease, or add a little bit of olive oil if there is not enough remaining.
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Add the onion and sauté for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. Add the carrots, celery, bell peppers, garlic, and sauté for 5 more minutes, stirring occasionally.
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Add in the wine, and use a wooden spoon to deglaze the pot. Add in the chicken stock, tomato sauce, diced tomatoes, Italian seasoning, red pepper flakes, and stir to combine.
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Continue cooking until the soup reaches a simmer. Then reduce heat to medium-low, cover, and simmer for 5 to 10 more minutes, or until the vegetables are completely tender.
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Add in the cooked sausage, gnocchi, and spinach or kale, and cook for 5 to 7 minutes, stirring occasionally, or until the gnocchi begins to float and is cooked through.
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Taste and season with salt and pepper and/or extra crushed red pepper flakes as needed.
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Serve immediately, sprinkled with your desired toppings.
Nutrition
- Calories: 544.73kcal
- Fat: 29.47g
- Saturated Fat: 9.66g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 13.54g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 4.00g
- Carbohydrates: 49.05g
- Fiber: 7.88g
- Sugar: 13.97g
- Protein: 22.81g
- Cholesterol: 76.88mg
- Sodium: 1664.59mg
- Calcium: 132.48mg
- Potassium: 1657.96mg
- Iron: 6.29mg
- Vitamin A: 483.70µg
- Vitamin C: 104.73mg
Technique Tip for Enhancing the Flavors in This Soup
When cooking the gnocchi, it's important to remember that they are done as soon as they float to the surface of the soup. Overcooking them can result in a mushy texture. Also, to enhance the flavor of the Italian sausage, you can consider browning it well before adding it to the soup. This caramelization process, known as the Maillard reaction, adds a depth of flavor to the sausage and the overall dish.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Hearty Soup
Prep ahead: Chop vegetables and measure out ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
One-pot wonder: Opt for a single pot or pan to minimize cleanup and simplify the cooking process.
Multitask: While the soup simmers, prepare the garnishes or set the table to make the most of your time in the kitchen.
Efficient chopping: Use a food processor to quickly chop vegetables for the soup, saving time and effort.
Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to avoid a cluttered workspace and make post-cooking cleanup a breeze.
Substitute Ingredients For Italian Sausage, Gnocchi, and Tomato Soup Recipe
Italian sausage - Substitute with Beyond Meat Italian sausage: This plant-based alternative provides a similar flavor and texture to traditional Italian sausage, making it a suitable substitute for those looking for a vegetarian or vegan option.
Gnocchi - Substitute with Cauliflower gnocchi: Cauliflower gnocchi offers a lower-carb alternative while still providing a similar texture and taste to traditional potato gnocchi, making it a great option for those seeking a lighter dish.
Tomato sauce - Substitute with Roasted red pepper sauce: The roasted red pepper sauce adds a unique smoky sweetness that complements the other flavors in the dish, offering a delicious alternative to traditional tomato sauce.
Best Way to Present This Comforting Soup
Elevate the plating: When presenting this dish, focus on creating a visually stunning plate. Use white, shallow bowls to showcase the vibrant colors of the soup and ingredients. Arrange the gnocchi, sausage, and vegetables in an artful and appealing manner.
Garnish with fresh herbs: Sprinkle the dish with freshly chopped parsley and basil to add a pop of color and a burst of fresh flavor. The vibrant green hues will contrast beautifully with the rich reds and oranges of the soup.
Incorporate Parmesan crisps: Create delicate Parmesan crisps to add an elegant and crunchy element to the dish. These can be placed strategically on top of the soup or served alongside for added texture and flavor.
Use high-quality serving utensils: When presenting the dish, opt for polished and elegant serving utensils. This attention to detail will enhance the overall dining experience and demonstrate a commitment to excellence.
Consider the placement of the soup: Pour the soup into the bowl with precision, ensuring that it is evenly distributed and visually appealing. Take care to avoid any spills or smudges on the rim of the bowl.
Emphasize the aroma: As the dish is presented, allow the enticing aroma of the soup to waft towards the judges, creating an immersive sensory experience that complements the visual appeal of the dish.
Highlight the gnocchi: Showcase the gnocchi as a focal point of the dish by arranging it in a visually appealing manner. Consider layering the gnocchi to create height and dimension on the plate.
Use complementary serving ware: Select elegant, complementary serving ware that enhances the overall presentation of the dish. Consider the color and design of the bowls and utensils to ensure they harmonize with the visual elements of the soup.
Essential Tools for Making Italian Sausage, Gnocchi, and Tomato Soup
Large stockpot: This is used for cooking the soup and can accommodate a large volume of liquid and ingredients.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is used for stirring and deglazing the pot when making the soup.
Slotted spoon: This is used for transferring the cooked sausage to a separate plate, leaving behind the excess grease in the pot.
Chef's knife: A chef's knife is essential for chopping the vegetables and garlic.
Cutting board: This provides a stable surface for chopping and preparing the vegetables and other ingredients.
Measuring cups and spoons: These are used for accurately measuring the ingredients such as chicken stock, wine, and spices.
Vegetable peeler: This is used for peeling the carrots.
Grater: A grater is used for grating the parmesan cheese as a topping for the soup.
Stock ladle: This is used for serving the soup into bowls.
Soup bowls: These are used for serving the finished soup.
Parmesan cheese grater: This is used for grating parmesan cheese as a topping for the soup.
Soup ladle: A soup ladle is used for serving the finished soup into bowls.
Tongs: Tongs are used for stirring and serving the gnocchi and spinach in the soup.
How To Store and Freeze Leftover Soup
- Let the italian sausage, gnocchi, and tomato soup cool completely before storing or freezing.
- Transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container or a freezer-safe bag, leaving some space at the top for expansion during freezing.
- If using a container, make sure to seal it tightly with a lid to prevent any air from entering.
- Label the container or bag with the date and the name of the soup for easy identification.
- Store the italian sausage, gnocchi, and tomato soup in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- To freeze the soup, place the airtight container or freezer-safe bag in the freezer and store it for up to 2-3 months.
- When ready to reheat, transfer the frozen soup to the refrigerator and let it thaw overnight.
- Once thawed, pour the soup into a pot and reheat it over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until it is heated through and the gnocchi is tender.
- If the soup appears too thick after reheating, add a little chicken stock or water to thin it out to your desired consistency.
- Taste the reheated soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, or additional italian seasoning if needed before serving.
How To Reheat Leftover Soup
Stovetop method: transfer the leftover italian sausage, gnocchi, and tomato soup to a pot and reheat it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until it reaches the desired temperature. This method allows you to control the heat and ensure that the gnocchi and vegetables don't become overcooked or mushy.
Microwave method: place the desired portion of leftover soup in a microwave-safe bowl and cover it with a damp paper towel or a microwave-safe lid. Heat the soup in 30-second intervals, stirring between each interval, until it reaches the desired temperature. Be careful not to overheat the soup, as it may cause the gnocchi to become rubbery.
Slow cooker method: transfer the leftover soup to a slow cooker and heat it on the low setting for 1-2 hours, or until it reaches the desired temperature. This method is ideal if you want to reheat a large batch of soup without having to monitor it constantly. It also allows the flavors to meld together even more.
Oven method: preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover soup to an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and heat for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup reaches the desired temperature. This method is suitable if you want to reheat a large portion of soup and keep it warm for an extended period.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to stir the soup well to ensure that it heats evenly. If the soup appears too thick after reheating, you can add a small amount of chicken stock or water to thin it out to your desired consistency. Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed before serving.
Random Fact About Italian Sausage, Gnocchi, and Tomato Soup
The Italian sausage, gnocchi, and tomato soup recipe is a hearty and comforting dish that combines the flavors of Italian sausage, tender gnocchi, and a rich tomato broth. This dish is a perfect example of Italian comfort food, which is known for its simple yet delicious flavors. It's a great way to warm up on a cold day and is sure to satisfy your cravings for a hearty and flavorful meal. Buon appetito!
Is Making This Soup at Home Economical?
The Italian sausage, gnocchi, and tomato soup recipe is quite cost-effective for a household. The combination of affordable ingredients like Italian sausage, vegetables, and gnocchi makes it a budget-friendly option. The total cost for a household of 4 people is approximately $20, making it an economical choice. The rich flavors and hearty nature of the dish make it a satisfying and filling option for a family meal. Overall Verdict: 9/10
Is This Hearty Soup Healthy or Unhealthy?
The Italian sausage, gnocchi, and tomato soup recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option. Here's an analysis of the recipe:
- The recipe includes a significant amount of Italian sausage, which is high in saturated fat and sodium. Consuming excessive amounts of saturated fat can increase the risk of heart disease and other health issues.
- The recipe also contains a considerable amount of tomato sauce and diced tomatoes, which are good sources of vitamins and antioxidants. However, some canned tomato products may contain added sugars or sodium.
- The inclusion of vegetables like onions, carrots, celery, bell peppers, and spinach or kale adds essential nutrients and fiber to the dish.
- The use of chicken stock and red wine contributes to the depth of flavor but may also add extra sodium and calories.
- Gnocchi, a type of Italian dumpling, is typically made from potatoes and flour. While it provides carbohydrates for energy, it is relatively low in fiber and may have a high glycemic index, which can cause blood sugar spikes.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Use lean Italian chicken or turkey sausage instead of traditional pork sausage to reduce the amount of saturated fat
- Opt for low-sodium chicken stock and tomato products to control the overall sodium content of the dish
- Increase the proportion of vegetables in the recipe, such as adding more carrots, celery, and spinach or kale, to boost the nutrient and fiber content
- Experiment with whole-wheat or legume-based gnocchi to increase the fiber content and lower the glycemic index of the dish
- Use a moderate amount of parmesan cheese as a topping, or opt for a low-fat alternative to reduce the overall fat content
Editor's Thoughts on This Comforting Italian Soup Recipe
This Italian sausage, gnocchi, and tomato soup recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The savory Italian sausage pairs perfectly with the pillowy gnocchi and the rich tomato base. The addition of vegetables adds a wonderful depth to the soup, while the hint of red pepper flakes gives it a subtle kick. The use of fresh herbs and Parmesan cheese as garnish adds a beautiful finishing touch. Overall, this recipe is a comforting and satisfying dish that is sure to impress anyone who tries it.
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Why trust this Italian Sausage, Gnocchi, and Tomato Soup Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of Italian sausage, gnocchi, and tomato soup, creating a comforting and flavorful dish. The use of fresh vegetables and herbs enhances the dish's nutritional value and adds depth to the flavors. The inclusion of parmesan cheese and fresh parsley as toppings further elevates the dish, providing a satisfying and visually appealing presentation. The step-by-step instructions ensure a seamless cooking experience, and the use of quality ingredients guarantees a delicious outcome. Trust in this recipe for a hearty and satisfying meal that will surely impress your taste buds.
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