One Pot Tuscan Sausage Gnocchi Soup – Creamy, Cozy, and Perfect for Any Night

There’s something magical about a soup that tastes like it simmered for hours—but only took you about 30 minutes from start to finish. That’s exactly what you get with this one pot Tuscan sausage gnocchi soup, a dreamy, creamy, ultra-comforting dish that delivers layers of rich flavor with minimal effort.

This recipe has all the classic Tuscan-inspired ingredients we adore: savory Italian sausage, sun-dried tomatoes, fresh spinach, garlic, onions, parmesan, herbs, and a silky broth made luxurious with heavy cream. Add in soft, pillowy gnocchi, and suddenly you’ve got a bowl that feels like a warm hug—filling, hearty, and deeply satisfying.

What makes this soup especially irresistible is the combination of textures. The sausage brings savory richness and little crispy browned bits that boost flavor in every spoonful. The sun-dried tomatoes add a punch of tangy sweetness and that signature Tuscan depth. The spinach melts into the broth and rounds everything out with freshness. And then, of course, the gnocchi—those delicate potato dumplings—absorb all the flavors of the soup while staying tender and chewy.

This is a one-pot meal that shines in every season. In the winter, it’s warm and cozy. In the fall, the hearty sausage and creamy broth make it the perfect comfort food. In the spring and summer, the brightness from sun-dried tomatoes and fresh spinach keeps the soup from feeling too heavy. It’s balanced, flavorful, and truly versatile.

Another bonus? This soup is incredibly easy. From browning the sausage to simmering the gnocchi, every step is simple. You won’t need multiple pots or complicated techniques. Everything happens in one pot, and everything works together beautifully.

Let’s dive deeper into the flavors, textures, and why this soup has become a go-to for busy families, meal preppers, and anyone who craves a comforting bowl of goodness.

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Ingredients:

• 1 lb Italian sausage (mild or hot)
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper (optional)
• 1/2 cup chopped sun-dried tomatoes (oil-drained)
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 package (16–18 oz) potato gnocchi
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 2 cups fresh spinach
• 1/2 cup grated parmesan
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (if needed)

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Instructions:

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon. Drain excess grease if needed.
3. Add onion and cook until softened, about 4 minutes.
4. Stir in garlic, Italian seasoning, and crushed red pepper; cook 30 seconds until fragrant.
5. Add sun-dried tomatoes and chicken broth. Bring to a simmer.
6. Add gnocchi and cook 3–5 minutes, or until tender and floating.
7. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream.
8. Add spinach and parmesan, stirring until wilted and melted.
9. Taste and season with salt and pepper.
10. Simmer 2 more minutes, then serve warm with extra parmesan.

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Tips & Tricks

• Use hot sausage if you love spice; mild works great for families.
• Don’t overcook the gnocchi—they only need a few minutes.
• Add cream last to prevent curdling.
• Sun-dried tomatoes in oil give richer flavor—just blot excess oil.
• For thicker soup: simmer uncovered for 3–5 extra minutes.
• For thinner soup: add a splash more broth.

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Variations

• Tomato-Based Version: Add 1 can of crushed tomatoes for a richer red broth.
• Lighter Version: Use half-and-half or evaporated milk.
• Veggie-Packed: Add mushrooms, zucchini, kale, or carrots.
• Cheesy: Stir in extra parmesan or even a handful of mozzarella for creaminess.
• Chicken Sausage: Swap sausage for a lighter protein.
• Low-Carb: Use cauliflower gnocchi (air fry or pan-sear before adding).

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Serving Suggestions

Serve with:

• crusty bread or garlic bread
• side salad (Caesar, Tuscan, or arugula)
• roasted veggies
• a simple antipasto plate

For a full Italian-inspired meal, pair with a glass of red wine and some parmesan crisps.

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Storage Information

Refrigerator: 3–4 days in airtight containers.
Freezer: Not ideal (gnocchi softens), but possible without gnocchi—add fresh when reheating.
Reheat: Gently on stovetop with a splash of broth or cream.
Meal Prep Tip: Make broth + sausage base ahead; add gnocchi and cream right before serving.

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FAQ

Can I use shelf-stable gnocchi?
Yes—fresh, frozen, or shelf-stable all work.

Is this spicy?
Only if using hot sausage or adding peppers.

Can I replace the cream?
Half-and-half or coconut cream works but changes flavor slightly.

Can I make it dairy-free?
Use coconut cream + dairy-free parmesan.

Can I use turkey sausage?
Absolutely! Just add a little oil while browning.

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History / Fun Facts

Tuscan-inspired soups are known for their sunny Mediterranean flavors—sun-dried tomatoes, rich broths, cream, greens, and hearty proteins. Gnocchi, while traditionally Italian, has become a beloved addition to American-style soups thanks to its soft, chewy texture and ability to soak up flavors. Combining these two inspirations creates a modern comfort dish that feels familiar yet sophisticated. Over the past few years, creamy Tuscan soups have gone viral online, and adding gnocchi makes them even more irresistible.

This version balances rustic Italian comfort with creamy American-style richness—easy enough for weeknights, impressive enough for guests, and cozy enough for every season.