I still remember the first time I made this gnocchi soup — it was a cold day, and I just wanted something creamy, hearty, and comforting without spending hours in the kitchen.
You know that kind of meal that makes you feel like everything’s okay in the world? That’s this soup. If you’ve ever tried Olive Garden’s gnocchi soup, this one is right up there — maybe even better because it’s homemade, fresher, and full of flavor.
So grab a spoon, my friend. We’re making something special.
What Makes Gnocchi Soup So Special
Gnocchi soup is like the ultimate comfort food in a bowl. It’s thick, creamy, full of soft potato gnocchi, tender chicken, and fresh veggies swimming in a rich broth. It’s not just soup — it’s a full meal that warms you up inside and out.
Unlike regular soups, gnocchi adds that soft, chewy bite that makes it feel extra satisfying. The texture alone will make you go back for another spoonful. Plus, the creamy broth feels like a cozy blanket around all those flavors — herbs, garlic, cream, and parmesan cheese.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Here’s what goes into this bowl of happiness:
- Olive oil or butter – for that rich base flavor.
- Onion, garlic, carrots, celery – the classic soup combo that builds flavor.
- Chicken broth – gives the soup body and a savory depth.
- Cooked shredded chicken – leftover chicken or rotisserie chicken works perfectly.
- Potato gnocchi – store-bought or homemade, either works.
- Heavy cream or half-and-half – for that creamy dreaminess.
- Spinach – adds color, nutrients, and freshness.
- Parmesan cheese – for a salty, cheesy finish.
- Salt, pepper, thyme, and Italian seasoning – flavor heroes.
You don’t need anything fancy — just simple ingredients that come together like magic.
Step-by-Step: How to Make Gnocchi Soup
1. Sauté the Base
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a big pot. Toss in chopped onions, carrots, celery, and minced garlic. Let them cook for a few minutes until they smell amazing and look soft.
This step builds the flavor foundation — don’t rush it.
2. Add the Broth and Chicken
Pour in your chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Then add in your cooked shredded chicken. If you’re using rotisserie chicken, even better — it adds so much flavor.
3. Add the Gnocchi
Now, toss in those little gnocchi pillows. They’ll start floating when they’re cooked — that’s how you’ll know they’re ready. It usually takes about 3–5 minutes.
4. Make It Creamy
Reduce the heat, pour in the heavy cream, and stir in grated parmesan cheese. The soup will start to thicken and turn beautifully creamy.
5. Add the Spinach
Finally, toss in a handful of spinach leaves. They’ll wilt perfectly into the soup, adding color and freshness.
Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and herbs.
Why You’ll Love This Gnocchi Soup
I’ll be honest — this soup became an instant favorite in my kitchen. Here’s why you’ll love it too:
- It’s fast. You can make it in under 30 minutes.
- It’s flexible. Add mushrooms, bacon, or use turkey instead of chicken — it still turns out great.
- It’s hearty. The gnocchi makes it filling without needing bread or sides.
- It’s comforting. Every bite feels like a warm hug on a cold day.
Once you try it, you’ll see why I call it the “lazy-day happiness soup.”
Pro Tips for the Perfect Gnocchi Soup
- Don’t overcook the gnocchi. Once they float, they’re done — any longer and they’ll turn mushy.
- Use fresh garlic and herbs. It makes a huge difference in flavor.
- Want it thicker? Stir in a spoon of cornstarch mixed with water before adding the cream.
- Want it lighter? Use milk instead of cream — still delicious!
- Make it vegetarian. Swap chicken broth for veggie broth and skip the chicken.
Serving Ideas
This soup is amazing on its own, but if you want to make it a full meal, here are some simple sides that pair beautifully:
- Garlic bread – because you’ll want something to dip.
- Green salad – adds freshness and crunch.
- Grilled cheese sandwich – for a comfort food double act.
How to Store and Reheat
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm it gently on the stove over low heat. If it thickens too much, add a splash of broth or milk.
Freezer Tip: Cream soups don’t freeze well — the texture changes. So it’s best to enjoy it fresh or within a few days.
Variations to Try
Want to switch things up? Here are fun twists on the classic gnocchi soup:
- Bacon Gnocchi Soup: Add crispy bacon bits for smoky flavor.
- Sausage Gnocchi Soup: Swap chicken for Italian sausage — spicy or mild.
- Vegetable Gnocchi Soup: Add zucchini, corn, or peas for a veggie boost.
- Creamy Pesto Gnocchi Soup: Stir in a spoon of pesto before serving. It adds a fresh, herby kick.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Boiling too hard – It can break down the gnocchi and make your soup cloudy.
- Adding cream too early – Always add it at the end to avoid curdling.
- Skipping the seasoning check – Taste as you go; it’s key for balanced flavor.
Final Thoughts
If you’ve been craving something creamy, cozy, and full of flavor, this gnocchi soup is your answer. It’s simple, satisfying, and perfect for busy weeknights or lazy weekends. Every time I make it, it reminds me how comforting homemade food can be — no fancy tricks, just good ingredients and a bit of love.
So, next time you’re thinking, “What should I make for dinner?” — trust me, this soup’s got you.
FAQs About Gnocchi Soup
Q: Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes! Store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time.
Q: Can I make this soup without cream?
You can. Use milk, coconut milk, or even a splash of cashew cream for a lighter version.
Q: Can I make it gluten-free?
Absolutely. Just use gluten-free gnocchi (most stores carry it now).
Q: How long does gnocchi take to cook in soup?
Usually around 3–5 minutes. Once it floats, it’s done.
Q: Can I use frozen spinach?
Yes, thaw it first and squeeze out extra water before adding.
Q: What protein can I use instead of chicken?
Turkey, sausage, shrimp, or even tofu — it’s all up to you!
