When comfort food calls, this Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup answers with rich, savory notes and a velvety texture that makes every spoonful feel like a warm hug. Smoky kielbasa sausage brings a satisfying depth to the dish, while pillowy gnocchi soak up the luscious broth, creating the ultimate one-pot wonder. It’s the kind of soup that feels both rustic and indulgent, perfect for chilly evenings or a cozy weekend lunch.

Spinach adds a pop of color and nutrition, while garlic and herbs infuse the soup with aromatic warmth. The creamy base is perfectly balanced with the savory bite of sausage and the slight chew of gnocchi. Whether you’re feeding a family or just want a quick, soul-soothing dinner, this recipe delivers big flavor with minimal fuss.

Ingredients for Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup

1 tablespoon olive oil
12 oz kielbasa sausage, sliced into coins
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 small yellow onion, diced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
2 cups baby spinach
½ cup grated Parmesan cheese (plus more for garnish)

Step 1: Brown the Kielbasa

Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or soup pot over medium heat. Add the sliced kielbasa and cook until browned and slightly crispy on the edges, about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving the flavorful oil in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

In the same pot, add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, around 4 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic, smoked paprika, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Cook for another 30 seconds, just until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Base

Pour in the chicken broth and use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pot — this adds tons of flavor. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Add Gnocchi and Simmer

Add the gnocchi directly into the pot and simmer for 3-5 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the top and are tender. No need to pre-cook them — they cook right in the broth!

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Spinach

Reduce the heat to low and slowly stir in the heavy cream. Add the spinach and let it wilt for about 1-2 minutes. Return the kielbasa to the pot and simmer everything together for another 2-3 minutes to blend the flavors.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Turn off the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted and the soup is creamy. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle into bowls, garnish with extra Parmesan and cracked black pepper, and serve hot.

Estimated Nutrition (per serving, based on 6 servings)

Calories: ~480 kcal
Protein: 16g
Carbohydrates: 32g
Fat: 32g
Saturated Fat: 15g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 1050mg

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on exact ingredients and portions.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of gnocchi should I use?

Shelf-stable potato gnocchi works perfectly for this recipe. You can also use fresh or frozen gnocchi — just adjust the cooking time slightly as needed.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes! Use full-fat coconut milk or an unsweetened non-dairy cream alternative, and skip the Parmesan or replace it with nutritional yeast.

Is there a good substitute for kielbasa?

Absolutely. Try smoked turkey sausage, andouille, or even plant-based sausage for a meatless twist.

How can I make this soup spicier?

Add red pepper flakes with the garlic, or use a spicy kielbasa. You can also stir in a dash of hot sauce before serving.

Can I use other greens instead of spinach?

Yes, kale or Swiss chard are great alternatives. Just allow slightly more time for them to soften in the soup.

Will the gnocchi get soggy in leftovers?

Gnocchi will soften a bit over time, but the soup is still delicious the next day. Reheat gently and add more liquid if needed.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Yes, but for best texture, make the base (everything except cream and gnocchi) ahead, then add those fresh when reheating.

What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic toast, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup: A Comforting Bowl of Flavor

Author: Lorenzo Devereaux
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: Serves 6

Print Recipe

Description

Craving something warm, creamy, and soul-satisfying? This Creamy Kielbasa Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate cozy comfort dish. Perfect as an easy dinner or hearty lunch, this one-pot wonder combines smoky kielbasa sausage with soft, pillowy gnocchi in a rich, garlicky broth. The blend of spinach and parmesan adds a savory, slightly earthy note, making it a complete meal bursting with flavor and texture. Whether you’re looking for quick weeknight dinners, easy soup recipes, or new dinner ideas, this comforting dish will quickly become a go-to favorite. It’s thick, rich, and every spoonful delivers a satisfying bite.

Instructions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add sliced kielbasa and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.
Add diced onion to the pot and sauté until translucent, about 4 minutes. Stir in garlic, paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper.
Pour in chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the pot. Bring to a simmer.
Add gnocchi and cook for 3-5 minutes until they float to the top and are tender.
Reduce heat and stir in heavy cream and spinach. Let spinach wilt for 1-2 minutes.
Return kielbasa to the pot and simmer for 2-3 minutes more.
Stir in Parmesan cheese, taste and adjust seasoning. Serve hot with extra Parmesan and black pepper.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Dinner