Are you ready to dive into a bowl of warmth and flavor? My Slow Cooker Creamy Tuscan Gnocchi Soup is your new go-to comfort dish! Packed with rich ingredients like onion, garlic, and savory broth, this soup only takes minutes to prep. Perfect for busy days, it’s creamy, satisfying, and oh-so-delicious. Join me as we explore how to make this cozy meal that will warm your heart and delight your taste buds!

Ingredients
Essential Ingredients
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 medium carrots, diced
– 2 celery stalks, diced
– 4 cups vegetable broth
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes, undrained
– 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs (basil, oregano, thyme)
– 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi (store-bought)
– 1 cup heavy cream
– 2 cups fresh spinach, roughly chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
This soup is simple yet full of flavor. The olive oil adds a nice base. Onions, garlic, carrots, and celery blend well and give a rich taste. Vegetable broth and diced tomatoes provide depth and a hint of sweetness.
Gnocchi is the star here. It soaks up all those tasty flavors. The heavy cream makes the soup rich and creamy. Spinach adds a fresh touch, bringing color and nutrients. Always season with salt and pepper to taste.
Optional Ingredients
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
– Grated Parmesan cheese for serving
Red pepper flakes can spice things up. They add a nice kick if you like heat. Grated Parmesan cheese is a great finishing touch. It gives extra flavor and makes your soup feel gourmet.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Prepping the Vegetables
First, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Next, dice 1 medium onion, 2 medium carrots, and 2 celery stalks. Add these to the skillet. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the vegetables soften. Then, mince 3 cloves of garlic and add them to the skillet. Sauté for an extra 1-2 minutes until fragrant. This step builds a great base for your soup.
Combining Ingredients in the Slow Cooker
After sautéing, transfer the vegetables to the slow cooker. Pour in 4 cups of vegetable broth and add 1 can of undrained diced tomatoes. Sprinkle in 1 teaspoon of dried Italian herbs and 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes if you like heat. Stir everything well to combine the flavors.
Cooking Process
You can cook the soup on low for 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours. Choose what fits your schedule best. About 30 minutes before you plan to serve, add 1 package of gnocchi to the slow cooker. Let them cook until soft. Once they are tender, reduce the heat to low. Now, stir in 1 cup of heavy cream and 2 cups of roughly chopped spinach. Let this warm for 5-10 minutes. Taste the soup and season with salt and pepper as needed. This will make your soup creamy and rich.
Tips & Tricks
Perfecting the Flavor
– First, taste the soup as it cooks. Adjust the salt and pepper to your liking.
– Add more Italian herbs if you want a stronger flavor.
– Just before serving, sprinkle grated Parmesan on top for a rich finish.
Ensuring the Right Consistency
– For a creamy texture, stir the heavy cream in slowly after cooking.
– Keep the slow cooker on low when you add the cream. This helps it blend well.
– Avoid overcooking the gnocchi. They should be soft but still hold their shape.
Serving Suggestions
– Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra Parmesan cheese.
– Add a few fresh spinach leaves for color and freshness.
– Serve with crusty bread or a light salad for a complete meal.
Variations
Making it Vegetarian
To make this soup vegetarian, you can swap heavy cream for coconut milk. Coconut milk adds a rich texture without meat. You can also use cashew cream for a nutty flavor. Both options keep the soup creamy and satisfying.
Adding Protein
If you want to add protein, cooked chicken or sausage works great. Just shred cooked chicken and stir it in. For sausage, slice and brown it before adding to the pot. This change makes the soup heartier and fills you up.
Seasonal Ingredients
Using fresh herbs can brighten the soup. Basil or parsley adds a fresh taste. You can also throw in seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. These veggies add color and nutrients, making the soup even better.
Storage Info
Refrigeration Guidelines
You can store leftovers of this soup in the fridge for up to three days. Make sure to place it in an airtight container. Cool the soup before sealing to maintain freshness. When you reheat, always check for any changes in texture or flavor.
Freezing Tips
If you want to keep the soup longer, freezing is a great option. Use freezer-safe containers, leaving some space at the top for expansion. The soup can last for up to three months in the freezer. When ready to eat, move it to the fridge overnight to thaw.
Reheating the Soup
To reheat, use a pot on low heat. Stir often to keep the texture smooth. If the soup seems thick, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it. You can also microwave it in short bursts, stirring in between. Just make sure it heats evenly to keep that creamy goodness!
FAQs
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi. Frozen gnocchi cooks well in this soup. Just add it directly to the slow cooker during the last 30 minutes of cooking. You do not need to thaw it first. This saves time and keeps the soup easy to make.
What can I substitute for vegetable broth?
If you don’t have vegetable broth, you can use chicken broth. This will add a richer flavor. Water with added seasonings can also work in a pinch. Just use herbs and spices to boost the taste.
How to make this soup dairy-free?
To make this soup dairy-free, replace heavy cream with coconut milk. Almond milk can also work, but it may change the flavor a bit. For cheese, use a dairy-free alternative or nutritional yeast. This keeps your soup creamy and adds flavor.
This blog post outlined key ingredients and steps for making a delicious soup. We talked about essential items like olive oil, vegetables, and gnocchi. You learned how to sauté, combine, and cook everything in a slow cooker.
I shared tips to perfect flavor and keep a creamy texture. Try variations with proteins or seasonal veggies for a twist. Store leftovers well, and reheat to enjoy later. Now, you have the tools to create a comforting meal that you can enjoy anytime.
