There’s something undeniably heartwarming about a big pot of Rustic Italian Gnocchi Soup bubbling gently on the stove as autumn leaves dance outside the kitchen window. This soup isn’t just comfort food, it’s a memory in a bowl. It takes me back to chilly October evenings spent in my grandmother’s tiny kitchen. Flour would dust the wooden countertops, a pot of tomato broth would simmer on the back burner, and soft gnocchi pillows, lovingly shaped by hand, would wait to be dropped in.
This soup became a staple in our home because it was hearty, full of flavor, and simple to make with pantry ingredients. Over the years, I’ve carried this tradition into my own kitchen, adding a few touches inspired by rustic trattorias from my travels through Italy. And every time I make it, I’m reminded that the best meals don’t have to be complicated, they just have to be shared.
In this post, I’ll guide you through how to make Rustic Italian Gnocchi Soup from scratch, share tips to make it beginner-friendly, and show you how to adapt it to your preferences, whether you’re eating gluten-free or looking for storage ideas. Whether you’re new to gnocchi or a seasoned soup lover, this one’s for you.
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Rustic Italian Gnocchi Soup
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 5 servings
Description
A cozy, tomato-based gnocchi soup filled with rustic vegetables, herbs, and creamy touches. This Rustic Italian Gnocchi Soup is perfect for crisp autumn days and packed with homemade comfort.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery ribs, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme mix)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth)
- 1 cup baby spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 pound store-bought or homemade gnocchi
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 5–7 minutes until softened and onions are translucent. Stir in garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
- Sprinkle in Italian herbs and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes.
- Pour in crushed tomatoes and broth. Stir well and bring to a low boil. Reduce to a simmer and cook uncovered for 15–20 minutes.
- Stir in chopped spinach or kale, then gently add gnocchi. Simmer until gnocchi float, about 3–5 minutes.
- Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream. Adjust seasoning. Serve hot, topped with parmesan and fresh parsley.
Notes
Use gluten-free gnocchi for a GF version. To make vegan, substitute coconut milk for cream and omit cheese. For extra heartiness, add cooked chicken or sausage during cooking.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients for Rustic Italian Gnocchi Soup
Making this soup is as much about the process as the ingredients. Here’s what you’ll need:
Main Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 2 celery ribs, diced
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme mix)
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for a bit of heat)
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 (14 oz) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if preferred)
- 1 cup baby spinach or kale, chopped
- 1 pound store-bought or homemade gnocchi
- 1/2 cup heavy cream (or full-fat coconut milk for dairy-free)
- 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese (optional)
- Fresh parsley for garnish
For a gluten-free version, simply use gluten-free gnocchi, widely available in many grocery stores.
Step by Step Instructions
Step 1: Build the flavor base
In a large pot over medium heat, heat the olive oil. Add diced onions, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5–7 minutes until they begin to soften and the onions are translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
Step 2: Add herbs and tomato base
Sprinkle in your Italian seasoning and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper. Stir in the tomato paste and let it cook for 1–2 minutes, letting the flavors deepen. Then pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth, stirring well to combine.
Step 3: Simmer and develop depth
Bring everything to a low boil, then reduce to a simmer. Let it cook for 15–20 minutes uncovered. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
Step 4: Add greens and gnocchi
Stir in the chopped spinach or kale. Then gently add in the gnocchi. Let them simmer until they float to the top and become tender, usually 3–5 minutes depending on the brand or freshness.
Step 5: Finish with cream and garnish
Lower the heat and stir in the cream. Taste and adjust seasoning. Ladle into bowls and top with a sprinkle of parmesan and fresh parsley.
For more creamy comfort recipes, you’ll love Velveeta Broccoli Cheese Soup and White Lasagna Recipe, both excellent for cozy nights in.
Tips for Success
Here are a few helpful hints to ensure your Rustic Italian Gnocchi Soup comes out delicious every single time:
- Don’t rush the base: Letting your onions, carrots, and celery soften slowly builds that deep, savory flavor.
- Choose high-quality broth: Since this is a broth-based soup, its flavor will shine through. A homemade or low-sodium store-bought option works great.
- Stir gently after adding gnocchi: They’re soft and tender, so avoid over-stirring or you’ll break them apart.
- Use a wide pot: Gnocchi need room to float without sticking together. A wide Dutch oven or soup pot is perfect.
Try pairing your soup with a crusty sourdough or warm focaccia for the full Italian experience. If you’re in the mood for more soup inspiration, the Asparagus Soup Recipe and Vegan Mushroom Soup are flavorful and satisfying alternatives.
Delicious Variations to Try
No two kitchens are the same, and one of the joys of home cooking is making a recipe your own. Here’s how you can adapt this Rustic Italian Gnocchi Soup:
Gluten-Free Gnocchi Soup
Swap traditional gnocchi for a gluten-free version made with potato flour or cassava. No changes needed to the broth, as it’s naturally gluten-free.
Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup
Add shredded rotisserie chicken in step 4. This adds protein and makes the soup even heartier. Perfect for next-day leftovers!
Vegan Version
Use olive oil instead of butter, skip the cheese, and swap heavy cream with canned coconut milk or cashew cream. The soup stays just as rich and comforting.
Spicy Sausage Gnocchi Soup
Brown sliced Italian sausage with the vegetables in step 1. It brings a smoky, spicy depth. This version pairs wonderfully with a slice of Cheese Broth with Potatoes and Elote.
Add a Crunchy Topping
For texture, try adding croutons or a spoonful of crispy fried shallots just before serving. It adds contrast and a gourmet touch.
Need more soup ideas? Our Autumn Squash Soup is another fall favorite, full of seasonal depth.
Storage and Make-Ahead Tips
One of the best things about Rustic Italian Gnocchi Soup is how well it stores and reheats. Here’s how to make it last:
- Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Reheat gently over the stove, adding a splash of broth or cream to thin if needed.
- Freezing: It’s best to freeze the soup before adding the gnocchi. Gnocchi tend to become mushy after freezing. Freeze the broth base in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Make-Ahead: You can prep all your veggies and even make the tomato broth ahead. Add gnocchi and spinach just before serving for best results.
This soup makes a beautiful addition to meal prep and cozy weeknight dinners. If you’re into wholesome prep ideas, check out Dump and Bake Alfredo for a no-fuss oven meal.
FAQs About Rustic Italian Gnocchi Soup
What type of gnocchi is best for soup?
Shelf-stable potato gnocchi works well, but refrigerated or homemade gnocchi gives the best texture. Avoid frozen gnocchi, which can become gummy in soup.
Can I make this soup dairy-free?
Yes! Use full-fat coconut milk or cashew cream in place of dairy. Skip the parmesan or use a dairy-free alternative.
How do I know when gnocchi is done?
Gnocchi is ready when it floats to the surface of the soup. It should feel pillowy and tender when bitten.
Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely. This soup scales up beautifully for feeding a crowd or freezing for future meals.
Final Thoughts
Rustic Italian Gnocchi Soup is more than just a meal, it’s a way to bring warmth, comfort, and flavor into your kitchen with very little effort. Whether you’re cooking for one or serving family-style, this recipe brings people together around the table. Simple ingredients, a cozy aroma, and the satisfaction of each bite make this a year-round favorite that shines brightest during fall.
For more cozy dishes, don’t miss our Air Fryer Gnocchi Salad and our nourishing Vegan Mushroom Soup.