This creamy soup is a twist on the classic Zuppa Toscana, replacing the traditional pasta with soft, tender gnocchi. The soup is packed with savory Italian sausage, earthy kale, and hearty potatoes, all simmered in a creamy, flavorful broth. It’s a deliciously comforting and filling meal that will warm you up in no time!

Ingredients:

  • 1 lb Italian sausage (spicy or mild, depending on preference)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (if needed to brown the sausage)
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups heavy cream
  • 2 large russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 (16 oz) package gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
  • 3 cups fresh kale, chopped (stems removed)
  • 1 tsp dried Italian seasoning
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Red pepper flakes (optional for extra heat)
  • Fresh parsley (optional for garnish)
  • Fresh grated Parmesan (optional for topping)

Instructions:

  1. Brown the sausage: In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the Italian sausage, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks. Brown the sausage for 5-7 minutes, until it’s fully cooked and crumbly. Remove the sausage from the pot and set it aside. If there’s excess fat, drain some off.
  2. Sauté the onions and garlic: In the same pot, add the chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is soft and translucent.
  3. Add the broth and potatoes: Pour in the chicken broth and add the diced potatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cook for 10-12 minutes, or until the potatoes are fork-tender.
  4. Add the gnocchi: Once the potatoes are tender, stir in the gnocchi. Let the gnocchi cook for 2-3 minutes, or until they begin to float to the top.
  5. Add the cream, kale, and sausage: Stir in the heavy cream, chopped kale, cooked sausage, and Italian seasoning. Bring the soup to a gentle simmer, and cook for another 3-4 minutes, until the kale has wilted and the soup is heated through.
  6. Season to taste: Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes (if using) to your liking.
  7. Serve: Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and grated Parmesan cheese, if desired.

Nutritional Information (per serving, based on 6 servings):

  • Calories: 500 kcal
  • Protein: 25g
  • Carbohydrates: 30g
  • Fiber: 3g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Fat: 32g
  • Saturated Fat: 15g
  • Cholesterol: 80mg
  • Sodium: 850mg
  • Potassium: 700mg
  • Vitamin A: 35% DV
  • Vitamin C: 30% DV
  • Calcium: 10% DV
  • Iron: 15% DV

Note: Nutritional values are estimates and may vary based on specific ingredients used.

This Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana is rich, creamy, and bursting with flavor. The gnocchi add a lovely texture