As the leaves turn and the air gets crisp, I find myself craving something warm and comforting. That’s where my Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup comes in. This delightful dish is not just a meal; it’s a hug in a bowl! Perfect for busy days, it comes together quickly, making it an ideal choice for moms and professionals alike. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your loved ones with minimal effort. Trust me, once you try this creamy, hearty soup, it will become a staple in your fall recipe rotation!
Why You’ll Love This Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup
- Quick and easy to prepare, perfect for busy weeknights.
- Rich, creamy texture that warms the soul.
- Packed with nutritious ingredients like butternut squash and kale.
- Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite veggies.
- Deliciously satisfying, making it a hit with the whole family.
Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Diet: Vegetarian
Description
A hearty and creamy soup made with butternut squash and gnocchi, perfect for fall.
Ingredients
- 2 to 3 tablespoons olive oil (add more if necessary)
- 1 to 2 cups crumbled plant-based sausage
- 1 medium yellow onion (chopped)
- 3 cloves garlic (finely chopped)
- 2 tablespoons sun-dried tomatoes in oil (chopped)
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon dried rosemary
- 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme
- 6 to 7 cups vegetable broth (use 6 cups for frozen squash and 7 cups for fresh, adjust as needed)
- 2 1/2 cups butternut squash (cut into bite-sized pieces, fresh or frozen)
- Salt and pepper (to preference)
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (from the pasta section)
- 1 1/2 cups half-and-half
- 4 cups kale (chopped)
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese
Instructions
- In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
- Add the crumbled plant-based sausage and cook until browned.
- Stir in the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until softened.
- Add the sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, rosemary, and thyme, stirring to combine.
- Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
- Add the butternut squash and season with salt and pepper. Cook until the squash is tender.
- Stir in the potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions.
- Once the gnocchi is cooked, stir in the half-and-half and chopped kale, cooking until the kale is wilted.
- Serve hot, topped with freshly grated parmesan cheese.
Notes
- Adjust the amount of vegetable broth based on whether you are using fresh or frozen squash.
- Feel free to add more vegetables or spices according to your taste.
- This soup can be made ahead of time and reheated.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients for Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup
Gathering the right ingredients is the first step to creating your Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup. Here’s what you’ll need:
- Olive oil: A staple in many kitchens, it adds richness and helps sauté the ingredients.
- Plant-based sausage: This crumbled goodness gives the soup a hearty texture and flavor. Feel free to use your favorite brand!
- Yellow onion: Chopped finely, it brings sweetness and depth to the soup.
- Garlic: Freshly chopped garlic adds a fragrant kick that elevates the dish.
- Sun-dried tomatoes: These little bursts of flavor add a tangy sweetness that complements the squash.
- Garlic powder: A handy shortcut to enhance the garlic flavor without chopping.
- Dried rosemary and thyme: These herbs bring a warm, earthy aroma, perfect for fall.
- Vegetable broth: The base of your soup, it adds moisture and flavor. Adjust the amount based on whether you’re using fresh or frozen squash.
- Butternut squash: The star of the show! It’s creamy and sweet, making the soup comforting and nutritious.
- Salt and pepper: Essential for seasoning, adjust to your taste preferences.
- Potato gnocchi: These little pillows of goodness cook quickly and soak up the flavors beautifully.
- Half-and-half: This creamy addition makes the soup luscious and rich.
- Kale: Chopped kale adds a pop of color and a nutritious boost, making it a hearty vegetarian squash gnocchi soup.
- Freshly grated parmesan cheese: A sprinkle on top adds a savory finish that ties everything together.
For exact measurements, check the bottom of the article where you can find everything listed for easy printing!
How to Make Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup
Now that you have all your ingredients ready, let’s dive into making this Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal in no time!
Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil
Start by heating 2 to 3 tablespoons of olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. The oil should shimmer but not smoke. This is where the magic begins!
Step 2: Cook the Plant-Based Sausage
Add 1 to 2 cups of crumbled plant-based sausage to the pot. Cook it until it’s nicely browned, about 5 to 7 minutes. This adds a hearty flavor to your soup, making it feel more filling.
Step 3: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Next, toss in the chopped yellow onion and finely chopped garlic. Sauté them until they’re softened and fragrant, about 3 to 4 minutes. The aroma will make your kitchen feel cozy!
Step 4: Add Sun-Dried Tomatoes and Spices
Stir in the chopped sun-dried tomatoes, garlic powder, dried rosemary, and thyme. Mix everything well, allowing the spices to bloom for about a minute. This step enhances the flavor profile of your creamy butternut squash gnocchi soup.
Step 5: Pour in the Vegetable Broth
Now, it’s time to pour in 6 to 7 cups of vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will create a flavorful base for your soup.
Step 6: Add Butternut Squash
Add 2 1/2 cups of butternut squash to the pot. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Let it cook until the squash is tender, about 10 to 15 minutes. The squash will soften and infuse the soup with its natural sweetness.
Step 7: Stir in the Gnocchi
Once the squash is tender, stir in 1 pound of potato gnocchi. Cook according to the package instructions, usually just a few minutes. The gnocchi will soak up all those delicious flavors!
Step 8: Incorporate Half-and-Half and Kale
After the gnocchi is cooked, stir in 1 1/2 cups of half-and-half and 4 cups of chopped kale. Cook until the kale is wilted, about 2 to 3 minutes. This adds creaminess and a nutritious boost to your hearty vegetarian squash gnocchi soup.
Step 9: Serve and Enjoy
Finally, ladle the soup into bowls and top with freshly grated parmesan cheese. Serve hot and enjoy the warmth of this fall gnocchi soup recipe with your loved ones!
Tips for Success
- Use fresh butternut squash for a sweeter flavor, but frozen works just as well!
- Don’t skip the sun-dried tomatoes; they add a unique depth to your butternut squash gnocchi soup with plant-based sausage.
- Adjust the seasoning gradually; taste as you go for the best results.
- For a thicker soup, blend a portion of the soup and stir it back in.
- Make it ahead of time; the flavors deepen as it sits!
Equipment Needed
- Large pot: A sturdy pot is essential for simmering your soup. A Dutch oven works great too!
- Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and mixing ingredients without scratching your pot.
- Measuring cups: Handy for measuring out your ingredients accurately.
- Knife and cutting board: Essential for chopping your veggies with ease.
Variations To Try
- Swap the greens: Instead of kale, try spinach or Swiss chard for a different flavor and texture.
- Add beans: For extra protein, toss in a can of white beans or chickpeas.
- Spice it up: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a little heat, or a dash of smoked paprika for a smoky flavor.
- Use different pasta: If gnocchi isn’t your thing, substitute with small pasta shapes like ditalini or orzo.
- Make it vegan: Use coconut cream instead of half-and-half and skip the cheese for a completely plant-based version.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair your Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup with crusty bread or garlic knots for a delightful dip.
- Serve alongside a fresh green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette to balance the richness of the soup.
- For drinks, a crisp white wine or sparkling water with lemon complements the flavors beautifully.
- Garnish with extra parmesan and a sprinkle of fresh herbs for a lovely presentation.
FAQs about Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! This hearty vegetarian squash gnocchi soup tastes even better the next day. Just store it in the fridge and reheat when you’re ready to enjoy.
Can I freeze Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup?
Yes, you can freeze it! However, I recommend adding the gnocchi fresh when you reheat the soup. This keeps the gnocchi from becoming mushy.
What can I substitute for plant-based sausage?
If you prefer, you can use regular sausage or even skip it altogether for a lighter version. The soup will still be delicious!
How can I make this soup spicier?
For a kick, add red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce while cooking. It’s a great way to spice up your fall gnocchi soup recipe.
Is this soup gluten-free?
To make it gluten-free, simply use gluten-free gnocchi. The rest of the ingredients are naturally gluten-free, making it a great option for those with dietary restrictions.
Final Thoughts
Cooking this Savory Butternut Squash Gnocchi Soup is more than just preparing a meal; it’s about creating a warm, inviting experience for your family. The rich flavors and creamy texture wrap around you like a cozy blanket on a chilly evening. Each spoonful is a reminder of the joys of fall and the comfort of home-cooked meals. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or enjoying a quiet moment to yourself, this soup brings happiness to the table. I hope it becomes a cherished recipe in your kitchen, just as it has in mine!