If you’re craving something that wraps you up in a warm, cozy hug, let me introduce you to my absolute favorite comfort food: the Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup Recipe. This soup has the perfect balance of rich, velvety cream and vibrant tomato tang, elevated by tender pillow-like gnocchi that soak up all those amazing flavors. It’s one of those dishes that feels fancy but comes together in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or when you want to impress friends with something truly heartwarming and satisfying.
Ingredients You’ll Need
This recipe calls for a handful of simple, pantry-friendly ingredients, yet each one plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor, texture, and color in this soup. From the sweetness of tomatoes to the silky cream and the herbs that brighten every spoonful, every element is essential for that perfect comforting bite.
- Olive oil: Helps to sauté onions gently without burning while adding subtle earthiness.
- Butter: Adds richness and depth to the soup’s flavor from the start.
- Onion (1/2 medium, finely chopped): Provides sweetness and aromatic complexity when softened.
- Garlic (4 cloves, minced): Gives the soup a fragrant punch that enhances the tomato base.
- Crushed tomatoes (1 – 28 ounce can): The soup’s bright, satisfying heart full of natural acidity and sweetness.
- Chicken or vegetable broth (4 cups): Builds the savory foundation and balances the creaminess.
- Heavy cream (1 cup): Creates that signature creamy texture and mellow flavor.
- White sugar (1/2 tablespoon): A small touch to mellow the tomato’s acidity.
- Italian seasoning (1/2 teaspoon): Brings in warm, herbal notes that tie the flavors together.
- Uncooked potato gnocchi (1 pound): Tender, pillowy dumplings that make every bite feel indulgent.
- Salt & pepper (to taste): Essential seasonings that bring out all the flavors perfectly.
- Fresh basil (1 generous handful, torn): Bright, aromatic finishing touch to lift the whole soup.
How to Make Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by melting the olive oil and butter together in a large pot over medium-high heat. This combo gives the soup a lush, buttery background. Then, add your finely chopped onion and slow-cook it for about 5 to 7 minutes until it’s beautifully softened and just beginning to turn golden. This step is key because it draws out the natural sweetness that forms the soup’s flavorful base.
Step 2: Add Garlic and Get it Fragrant
Next, stir in the minced garlic and cook it for about 30 seconds until it’s fragrant and just starting to bloom. You want to be careful here not to burn it but to release those wonderful garlicky aromas that make the soup so inviting.
Step 3: Bring the Soup Together
Pour in the crushed tomatoes, broth, heavy cream, sugar, Italian seasoning, and your uncooked gnocchi all at once. Turn up the heat to high and bring everything to a gentle boil—a bubbling pot signals that the magic is happening. Then lower the heat and let it simmer uncovered for 15 to 20 minutes. As it cooks, the gnocchi releases starch, thickening the broth into a luxuriously creamy texture that makes every spoonful pure comfort.
Step 4: Season and Add Fresh Basil
Before serving, taste and season generously with salt and pepper to enhance all those complex flavors. Finish by stirring in torn fresh basil leaves for a burst of fresh herbal brightness that perfectly balances the soup’s rich creaminess and tangy tomato notes. Now you’re ready to enjoy a bowl of pure deliciousness!
How to Serve Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra virgin olive oil can elevate the presentation and flavor. Some chili flakes add a welcome kick if you love a hint of spice. Fresh basil leaves on top always give a lovely color contrast and aroma that’s irresistible.
Side Dishes
This soup pairs beautifully with a crisp green salad or warm, crusty bread to soak up every last drop. Garlic bread or a classic grilled cheese sandwich make for a perfect duo that’s sure to satisfy the heartiest appetites.
Creative Ways to Present
Serve it in a rustic bread bowl for a striking, cozy presentation that’s bound to impress guests. Or ladle the soup into small bowls for a charming appetizer at your next dinner party. Adding a swirl of cream or pesto on top can also add a visual and flavor flourish.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This soup keeps well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen, making the leftovers taste even better the next day. Just give it a gentle stir before reheating to redistribute the creaminess.
Freezing
While gnocchi doesn’t always freeze perfectly because it can become a bit soft, if you want to freeze the soup, it’s best to do so before adding the gnocchi. Freeze the tomato and cream base separately, then stir fresh gnocchi in when you reheat for the best texture.
Reheating
Heat leftovers slowly on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally to prevent scorching. Add a splash of broth or cream if it thickens too much. Avoid microwaving directly for best texture and flavor.
FAQs
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply swap out the chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ll have a delicious vegetarian version without compromising on flavor.
What kind of gnocchi should I use?
I recommend potato gnocchi, which you can find fresh or frozen at most grocery stores. They cook quickly and become wonderfully tender in the soup.
Is there a way to make this soup lighter?
You can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. The soup won’t be quite as rich but will still be creamy and delicious.
Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Yes, you can! Use about 2 pounds of ripe tomatoes, roughly chopped and simmered down before adding the broth to create a fresh tomato base.
How long does this soup take to make?
From start to finish, it takes about 35 minutes. It’s quick enough for a weeknight but satisfying like a slow-cooked meal.
Final Thoughts
This Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup Recipe is truly one of those dishes that makes you feel instantly at home. It’s simple, comforting, and bursting with flavor — perfect for sharing with loved ones on any chilly day. Once you try it, I’m confident it will become a cherished staple in your kitchen just as it is in mine. So go ahead, grab your pot, and enjoy every spoonful of warmth!
Print
Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Description
This Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup is a comforting and hearty dish featuring tender potato gnocchi simmered in a rich and flavorful tomato-based broth enriched with cream, fresh basil, and Italian seasoning. Perfect for a cozy meal, this soup balances creamy texture with fresh and aromatic flavors.
Ingredients
Soup Base
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 (28 ounce) can crushed tomatoes
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy/whipping cream
- 1/2 tablespoon white sugar
- 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt & pepper, to taste
Main Ingredient
- 1 pound uncooked potato gnocchi
Garnish
- 1 generous handful fresh basil, torn
Instructions
- Sauté Aromatics: Melt the olive oil and butter in a large pot over medium-high heat. Add the finely chopped onion and sauté for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion turns lightly browned and translucent, developing a sweet, caramelized flavor.
- Add Garlic: Stir in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn the garlic for a perfect aromatic base.
- Combine Soup Ingredients: Pour in the crushed tomatoes, chicken or vegetable broth, heavy cream, white sugar, and Italian seasoning. Stir to combine everything evenly. Add the uncooked potato gnocchi to the pot.
- Simmer Soup: Increase the heat to high and bring the soup to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking. During this time, the starch from the gnocchi will thicken the broth, creating a creamy consistency.
- Season and Garnish: Taste the soup and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper generously according to your preference. Just before serving, stir in the torn fresh basil to add a burst of freshness and herbal aroma. Serve hot and enjoy!
Notes
- The white sugar helps balance the acidity of the crushed tomatoes for a smoother taste.
- Using fresh basil at the end preserves its flavor and vibrant color.
- You may substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Do not overcook the gnocchi to prevent them from becoming mushy; keep an eye on their texture during simmering.
