Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup

Instructions:

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it apart with a spoon, and cook until browned and crumbled.
2. Add chopped onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing until softened and fragrant.
3. Pour in chicken broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
4. Add dried basil, oregano, and thyme to the pot, stirring to infuse the broth with flavor.
5. Gently add the potato gnocchi to the simmering soup, allowing them to cook according to package instructions or until they float to the surface.
6. Once the gnocchi are cooked, stir in the baby spinach until wilted.
7. Season the soup with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Ladle the creamy Italian sausage gnocchi soup into bowls, garnish with grated Parmesan cheese, and serve hot.

Storage Methods:

• Allow any leftover soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.

Variations:

• Add diced tomatoes or sun-dried tomatoes for a burst of sweetness and acidity.
• Substitute sweet Italian sausage with spicy Italian sausage for an extra kick of heat.
• Incorporate other vegetables like diced carrots, bell peppers, or mushrooms for added texture and flavor.

Tips and Tricks:

• For a richer flavor, use a combination of sweet and spicy Italian sausage.
• Be careful not to overcook the gnocchi, as they can become mushy. Cook them just until they float to the surface.
• Taste the soup before adding salt, as the Italian sausage and chicken broth may already contain salt.
• Stir the soup occasionally while simmering to prevent the cream from curdling.

Health Benefits of Ingredients:

• Italian sausage adds protein and savory flavor to the soup, while also providing essential nutrients like iron and vitamin B12.
• Spinach is packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, supporting immune health and overall well-being.
• Olive oil offers heart-healthy fats and anti-inflammatory properties, promoting cardiovascular health.
• Gnocchi provides carbohydrates for energy and a comforting, pillowy texture to the soup.

Conclusion: Nonna Sofia’s Creamy Italian Sausage Gnocchi Soup was more than just a dish; it was a culinary masterpiece that transported taste buds to the rolling hills of Tuscany with each spoonful. With its rich flavors, velvety texture, and comforting aroma, this soup embodied the essence of Italian home cooking and the warmth of family gatherings. So gather your ingredients, channel your inner chef, and indulge in a bowl of this soul-soothing delight that brings a taste of Italy to your table. Buon appetito!