This creamy tomato gnocchi soup recipe blends rich tomatoes, soft pillowy gnocchi, and warm herbs into a comforting bowl perfect for weeknights. The combination of tender gnocchi and a velvety tomato base gives this creamy tomato gnocchi soup its signature texture that feels homemade, hearty, and completely satisfying.
The popularity of creamy soups has steadily grown because they bring comfort and convenience together in one easy pot. This creamy tomato gnocchi soup works beautifully for busy days, offering a simple stovetop method that still tastes slow-simmered. As you walk through this guide, you’ll find a fully detailed ingredient table, step-by-step instructions, expert tips, common mistakes to avoid, and answers to the most frequently asked questions about making creamy tomato gnocchi soup at home.
This recipe is inspired by the classic idea of pairing tomatoes with cream but adds the delightfully chewy bite of gnocchi to give every spoonful more heartiness. The base includes pantry-friendly staples like crushed tomatoes, broth, and seasonings, making this dish ideal when you want something warm and nourishing without a complicated process. Whether you’re familiar with gnocchi soups or trying them for the first time, this guide breaks everything down so your results turn out smooth, flavorful, and perfectly consistent.
Below, you’ll find a clear outline of ingredients, simple preparation techniques, and valuable cooking insights to help elevate both flavor and texture. By the end, you’ll have all the tools you need to confidently prepare this creamy tomato gnocchi soup on your own, along with tips on customizing it based on your favorite proteins, herbs, or vegetables.
Table of Contents
Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
Description
A cozy, creamy tomato gnocchi soup made with pillowy potato gnocchi, rich tomato broth, and fresh spinach for an easy weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 medium yellow onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons tomato paste
28 ounces crushed tomatoes
4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
1 teaspoon dried basil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 teaspoon kosher salt, more to taste
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 cup heavy cream
1 pound potato gnocchi
2 cups baby spinach, loosely packed
Pinch red pepper flakes (optional)
Fresh basil or grated Parmesan, for serving
Instructions
1. Heat the olive oil in a large soup pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté for 5–6 minutes, until softened and translucent.
2. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, just until fragrant, being careful not to let it brown.
3. Add the tomato paste and cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring, to deepen the flavor and lightly caramelize it.
4. Pour in the crushed tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth, then add the dried basil, dried oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes if using. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
6. Stir in the heavy cream and let the soup return to a gentle simmer without boiling hard.
7. Add the potato gnocchi directly to the pot and cook according to package directions, usually 3–5 minutes, until the gnocchi float to the top and are tender.
8. Fold in the baby spinach and cook for 1–2 minutes, just until wilted.
9. Taste and adjust seasoning with additional salt and pepper if needed.
10. Ladle the creamy tomato gnocchi soup into bowls and top with fresh basil or grated Parmesan before serving.
Notes
For extra richness, replace 1/4 cup of the heavy cream with mascarpone cheese.
To make it spicier, add more red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.
Stir in cooked shredded chicken or Italian sausage for added protein.
Use vegetable broth and a plant-based cream to make a vegetarian-friendly version.
The soup thickens as it sits; thin with a splash of broth or cream when reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients Table
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Olive oil | 2 tablespoons |
| Yellow onion, diced | 1 medium |
| Garlic, minced | 3 cloves |
| Crushed tomatoes | 28 ounces |
| Chicken or vegetable broth | 4 cups |
| Heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Potato gnocchi | 1 pound |
| Baby spinach | 2 cups |
| Salt and pepper | To taste |
| Dried basil and oregano | 1 teaspoon each |
Step-by-Step Instructions
Start by warming the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened, stirring occasionally to help it release its natural sweetness. Stir in the garlic and cook briefly until fragrant.
Next, pour in the crushed tomatoes and broth. Add the basil, oregano, salt, and pepper. Let this mixture simmer for several minutes to blend the flavors. Once heated, stir in the heavy cream to create the smooth and velvety base that defines this creamy tomato gnocchi soup.
Add the gnocchi directly to the pot and simmer until the pieces float and turn tender. This process usually takes just a few minutes, making this soup especially quick to prepare. Once the gnocchi is cooked, fold in the spinach and let it wilt gently into the creamy broth.
Taste the soup and adjust any seasonings as needed. Ladle into bowls and serve warm.
Helpful Tips
For deeper flavor, sauté a small amount of tomato paste with the onions and garlic. If you prefer a richer texture, replace part of the cream with mascarpone cheese. Those who enjoy a hint of spice can add crushed red pepper flakes. To keep gnocchi from overcooking, add it just before serving and simmer only until soft.
Conclusion
This creamy tomato gnocchi soup blends comfort, flavor, and convenience into a single pot. With simple ingredients and minimal preparation time, it is an ideal weeknight dish that tastes warm, homemade, and satisfying. Whether you keep it classic or customize it with herbs, vegetables, or protein, the result is always a cozy bowl worth savoring.
FAQ Section
What makes creamy tomato gnocchi soup thick and smooth?
The combination of crushed tomatoes and heavy cream creates a naturally velvety texture, while simmering allows the flavors to develop fully.
Can I use frozen gnocchi for creamy tomato gnocchi soup?
Yes, frozen gnocchi cooks quickly and works perfectly in this recipe without adjusting the cooking time much.
How can I store leftover creamy tomato gnocchi soup?
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The gnocchi will soften slightly, but the flavors remain delicious.
Can I add chicken to creamy tomato gnocchi soup?
Shredded rotisserie chicken or cooked chicken breast can be stirred in near the end for added protein without changing the cooking process.