Name: Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Cuisine: Italian
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons olive oil; 3 garlic cloves, minced or sliced; 1 yellow onion, diced; 2 red bell peppers, chopped; 2 cups cherry or grape tomatoes; 1 teaspoon smoked paprika; 2 plant-based Italian sausages (or regular, if preferred), crumbled; 4 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 cup ricotta cheese; 16 oz potato gnocchi; 1/4 cup fresh basil, chopped; Salt and pepper, to taste; Optional: red pepper flakes

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This Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup is a cozy, hearty, and flavorful dish that combines pillowy potato gnocchi, crumbled veggie sausage, and a creamy red pepper and tomato base. With ricotta for richness, smoked paprika for warmth, and fresh basil for brightness, this soup delivers comfort and nutrition in every spoonful.

Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup is the perfect balance of creamy, hearty, and healthy. The gnocchi makes it filling, while the vegetable base provides plenty of vitamins and flavor. It’s completely vegetarian, customizable, and easy to make in just 45 minutes. Whether for weeknight dinners or meal prep, this recipe is satisfying, wholesome, and comforting.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oil
garlic, minced or sliced
yellow onion, diced
red bell peppers, chopped
cherry or grape tomatoes
smoked paprika
plant-based Italian sausages (or regular if preferred)
vegetable broth
ricotta cheese
potato gnocchi
fresh basil
salt and pepper
optional: red pepper flakes

Directions

Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium-high heat.
Add onion and garlic; sauté for 2–3 minutes until fragrant.
Stir in red bell peppers, tomatoes, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 10 minutes until softened.
In a separate pan, cook veggie sausages according to package instructions, crumbling into small pieces.
Add vegetable broth to the soup pot and stir in ricotta cheese. Blend with an immersion blender until smooth and creamy (or use a standard blender, working in batches).
Bring the blended soup to a boil, then add uncooked gnocchi and crumbled sausage. Cook for 2 minutes, or according to gnocchi package directions.
Remove from heat and stir in fresh basil. Adjust seasoning and add red pepper flakes if desired.
Serve hot, garnished with extra basil, ricotta, or black pepper.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep time: 15 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 45 minutes

Variations

Roasted flavor: Roast the peppers, tomatoes, onion, and garlic at 400°F for 20–30 minutes before blending.
Vegan option: Use dairy-free ricotta or cashew cream instead of ricotta.
Gluten-free: Use certified gluten-free gnocchi and sausages.
Protein boost: Add white beans or lentils along with the veggie sausage.
Spicy twist: Use spicy sausages or add chili flakes for extra heat.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. If the soup thickens, add a splash of broth or water before reheating. Freezing is not recommended as gnocchi may change texture.

FAQs

Can I use fresh gnocchi instead of packaged?

Yes, just adjust cooking time—fresh gnocchi cooks in about 1–2 minutes.

Do I need to peel the bell peppers?

No, once blended, the skins add flavor and texture.

Can I make this soup without ricotta?

Yes, you can omit it or replace with cream, mascarpone, or a vegan alternative.

Can I use meat sausages instead of vegetarian?

Yes, Italian pork or chicken sausages work well.

How do I make the soup creamier?

Add extra ricotta or stir in a splash of heavy cream or coconut milk.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, but for best texture, cook the gnocchi just before serving.

Can I add more vegetables?

Absolutely—zucchini, spinach, or carrots would all be great additions.

What can I serve with this soup?

It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, garlic bread, or a light green salad.

How spicy is this soup?

It’s mild as written. Add red pepper flakes or spicy sausage for heat.

Can I blend the soup completely smooth?

Yes, for a silky consistency, blend everything before adding gnocchi and sausage.

Conclusion

This Vegetarian Gnocchi Soup is a rich, comforting meal that’s perfect for cozy evenings. With creamy tomato and red pepper broth, hearty gnocchi, and flavorful veggie sausage, it’s a nourishing dish that feels indulgent but is packed with wholesome ingredients. Simple to prepare and endlessly customizable, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.