Oh my goodness, let me tell you about my absolute favorite comfort food: creamy kielbasa gnocchi soup! There’s just something magical about curling up with a warm bowl of this deliciousness on a chilly night. I remember the first time I made it; I was exhausted after a long day, but as soon as I took that first spoonful, all my worries melted away. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to whip up! With just a few simple ingredients, you can have a hearty meal ready in no time, making it the perfect fit for my busy lifestyle. Trust me, once you try this soup, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients for Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup
Gathering your ingredients is the first step to creating this delightful soup! Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced into bite-sized pieces – This smoky sausage is the star of the show, bringing tons of flavor.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil – A little oil to help brown the kielbasa and sauté the veggies.
- 1 onion, diced – I love using yellow onion for its sweetness, but you can use whatever you have on hand!
- 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch that elevates the soup.
- 4 cups chicken broth – You can use homemade or store-bought, just be sure it’s low-sodium for better control over saltiness.
- 1 cup heavy cream – This is what makes the soup creamy and rich! If you want a lighter version, half-and-half works well too.
- 1 package gnocchi (16 oz) – Store-bought gnocchi is super convenient and cooks up quickly.
- 2 cups spinach – Fresh spinach is best here. It wilts down beautifully, adding color and nutrients.
- Salt and pepper to taste – Don’t forget to season to your liking!
Make sure to have everything prepped and ready to go before you start cooking. It’ll make the process so much smoother and more enjoyable!
How to Prepare Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup
Let’s get cooking! Follow these easy steps, and you’ll have a deliciously creamy kielbasa gnocchi soup in no time!
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
First, heat that tablespoon of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. You want it hot enough that it shimmers, but not smoking! This is key for creating a flavorful base for your soup.
Step 2: Cook the Kielbasa
Once your oil is hot, toss in the sliced kielbasa. Cook it for about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s beautifully browned. You’re looking for that lovely caramelization, which adds so much depth to the soup!
Step 3: Add Onion and Garlic
Next, stir in the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook for another 3-4 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. You’ll know it’s ready when your kitchen smells divine—trust me, it’s the best part!
Step 4: Incorporate Chicken Broth
Now, pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Keep an eye on it; you want to see those bubbles rolling! This is where all the flavors start to meld together.
Step 5: Add Gnocchi
Once boiling, add the gnocchi and cook according to the package instructions—usually about 2-3 minutes. They’re done when they float to the top, which is super satisfying to watch!
Step 6: Stir in Heavy Cream and Spinach
Now, reduce the heat and stir in the heavy cream and fresh spinach. Cook for just a couple of minutes until the spinach wilts down. You want the soup to look rich and creamy—so good!
Step 7: Season to Taste
Finally, don’t forget to taste and season with salt and pepper as you like! This is your chance to make it just perfect for your palate. Serve it hot, and enjoy every comforting spoonful!
Tips for Success with Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup
To make this creamy kielbasa gnocchi soup even better, here are my top tips! First, don’t rush the browning of the kielbasa; that caramelization adds incredible flavor! Also, make sure your broth is at a rolling boil before adding the gnocchi, as this helps them cook perfectly. If you want an extra layer of flavor, consider adding some herbs like thyme or parsley while it simmers. And don’t skimp on the seasoning—taste as you go, and adjust to your liking! Finally, serve it with some crusty bread for dipping; trust me, you’ll thank me later!
Nutritional Information
Let’s talk about what you’re getting in each delicious bowl of creamy kielbasa gnocchi soup! While I always encourage enjoying food without guilt, it’s nice to know what’s in your meal. Keep in mind that these values are estimates, and can vary based on specific brands and ingredients you use. Here’s a breakdown for one serving:
- Calories: 450
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Cholesterol: 80mg
So, as you enjoy this comforting soup, you can savor not just the flavors, but also the hearty nutrition packed in each bowl! Happy cooking!
Frequently Asked Questions About Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup
Can I use a different type of sausage?
Absolutely! While kielbasa is my favorite for this soup, you can easily swap it out for any type of sausage you prefer. Italian sausage, turkey sausage, or even a spicy chorizo can add a fun twist to the flavor. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time a little if you’re using raw sausage; you want it cooked through before adding the broth!
How can I make this soup healthier?
If you’re looking to lighten things up, consider using half-and-half or even a low-fat milk in place of the heavy cream. You could also add more veggies like carrots or bell peppers for extra nutrients. Another great option is to toss in some beans for added protein and fiber—just make sure they’re cooked before adding them to the soup!
Can I freeze creamy kielbasa gnocchi soup?
Yes, you can freeze this soup, but with a little caution! Since gnocchi can become mushy when frozen, I recommend freezing the soup without them. Just store the cooled soup in an airtight container for up to three months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw the soup in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove. Cook fresh gnocchi separately and stir them in just before serving for the best texture!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this soup is perfect for weeknight dinners when you’re short on time!
- Comfort in a Bowl: The creamy texture and hearty ingredients make each spoonful feel like a warm hug on a cold day.
- Flavorful and Satisfying: The combination of smoky kielbasa, tender gnocchi, and fresh spinach creates a deliciously rich flavor that’s hard to resist.
- Easy to Customize: Feel free to swap in your favorite vegetables or different types of sausage to make it your own!
- One-Pot Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time enjoying your meal and less time scrubbing pots and pans.
- Kid-Friendly: This soup is a hit with kids thanks to its creamy goodness and comforting flavors, making it a family favorite!
Serving Suggestions for Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup
To make your meal complete, I love serving this creamy kielbasa gnocchi soup with some fresh, crusty bread—there’s nothing quite like dipping a warm slice into that rich broth! A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette adds a refreshing crunch that balances the creaminess of the soup. If you’re in the mood for something heartier, roasted vegetables or a cheesy garlic bread would pair beautifully too. Trust me, adding these sides will elevate your dining experience and leave everyone at the table feeling satisfied and happy!
For more information on the health benefits of spinach, check out this Healthline article.
To learn more about the nutritional value of kielbasa, visit this Livestrong page.
Print
Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup: 7 Easy Steps to Comfort
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A creamy and hearty soup featuring kielbasa and gnocchi.
Ingredients
- 1 pound kielbasa, sliced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package gnocchi (16 oz)
- 2 cups spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned.
- Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions.
- Stir in heavy cream and spinach, cooking until spinach wilts.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Serve hot.
Notes
- Use fresh spinach for best flavor.
- Substitute sausage for a different flavor.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Polish
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 15g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 30g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 15g
- Cholesterol: 80mg
Keywords: creamy kielbasa gnocchi soup
