This slow cooker gnocchi sausage kale soup recipe is a hearty, comforting dish that's perfect for chilly weather. The combination of hot Italian sausage and gnocchi makes for a satisfying, tasty meal, while the addition of kale adds a healthy punch. The slow cooking process allows the flavors to meld together, resulting in a flavor-packed dish that's bound to become a household favorite.
Photos of Slow Cooker Gnocchi Sausage Kale Soup Recipe
The ingredients for this recipe are pretty straightforward and should be easily found in your local grocery store. However, gnocchi, a type of Italian dumpling, might not be as common. You can usually find gnocchi in the pasta aisle. Also, hot Italian sausage is used in this recipe for a spicy kick but feel free to substitute it with mild Italian sausage if you prefer less heat.
Ingredients for Slow Cooker Gnocchi Sausage Kale Soup
Ground hot Italian sausage: This sausage adds a spicy kick to the soup, but can be replaced with mild Italian sausage for a less spicy version.
Onion: It's a base ingredient that adds depth and sweetness to the soup.
Carrots and Celery: These add crunch and nutrition to the soup.
Garlic: Garlic gives the soup a robust flavor.
Chicken broth: Acts as the liquid base of the soup.
Italian Seasoning: This adds additional Italian flavor to the soup.
Evaporated milk: Evaporated milk is thicker than regular milk and adds creaminess to the soup.
Gnocchi: These little Italian dumplings add a delightful chewy texture to the soup.
Kale: Adds texture, color, and is a great way to sneak in some greens.
One reader, Fara Crites says:
This slow cooker gnocchi sausage kale soup recipe is a game-changer! The flavors are rich and comforting, and the ease of using a slow cooker makes it a weeknight favorite. The combination of sausage, gnocchi, and kale is simply divine. It's a must-try for anyone who loves hearty, flavorful soups.
Techniques Required for Making Slow Cooker Gnocchi Sausage Kale Soup
How to brown sausage: In a skillet, cook the sausage over medium heat, breaking it into small pieces with a spatula until it is browned and cooked through.
How to chop vegetables: Wash and peel the carrots, then chop them into small pieces. Cut the celery sticks into small slices. Peel and chop the onion into small pieces. Mince the garlic cloves.
How to thicken soup: In a small bowl, mix the cornstarch with a small amount of cold water to create a slurry. Add this mixture to the soup and stir well. Allow the soup to simmer for a few minutes until it thickens.
How to wilt kale: Add the chopped kale to the soup and cover the pot. Let the kale cook for a few minutes until it begins to wilt.
How To Make Slow Cooker Gnocchi Sausage Kale Soup
This gnocchi sausage kale soup filled with kale, celery, and carrots is thick, creamy, and heavenly, it’s the perfect comfort food you’re looking for.
Serves:
Ingredients
- 1lbground hot Italian sausage,browned, or any other sausage such as chicken, pork, beef or turkey
- 1onion,peeled, diced
- 2carrots,peeled, diced
- 2celery sticks,diced
- 5garlic cloves,or 1½ tbsp minced garlic
- 4cupschicken broth,good quality
- 2tspItalian seasoning
- 2tspvegetable stock powder,such as Vegeta, or chicken or beef bouillon powder
- 1tsponion powder
- 1tspgarlic powder
- ¾tspsalt,adjust to your taste
- ⅓tspblack pepper,cracked, adjust to your taste
- 2⅓cupsevaporated milk,or half and half, or reduced-fat cream
- 3tbspcornstarch,heaping, dissolved in milk
- 2cupemilk,2% milk
- 1lbgnocchi,fresh 500g
- 4cupskale leaves,shredded, stems removed, or baby spinach leaves
- salt and pepper,additional, to taste
- Parmesan cheese,optional topping, freshly grated
- crispy bacon,optional topping
Instructions
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Place the browned sausage, onion, carrots, celery, garlic, broth, Italian seasoning, Vegeta (or bouillon), onion powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a crockpot or slow cooker. Cover and cook on High for 4 to 5 hours or Low for 6 to 8 hours.
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Add the evaporated milk, milk and cornstarch mixture, and gnocchi. Stir and replace the cover. Cook for another 30 minutes until the soup has thickened and the gnocchi has softened.
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Add in the chopped kale or spinach. Cover for an extra 5 minutes or until just beginning to wilt.
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Taste test and season with extra salt and pepper, if desired. Serve immediately with parmesan cheese and bacon if desired.
Recipe Notes
If the soup thickens too much when cold, just add extra milk in ½-cup increments until you achieve the desired consistency while warming it up to serve.
Nutrition
- Calories: 329.53kcal
- Fat: 16.95g
- Saturated Fat: 6.88g
- Trans Fat: 0.00g
- Monounsaturated Fat: 7.05g
- Polyunsaturated Fat: 1.87g
- Carbohydrates: 30.79g
- Fiber: 2.01g
- Sugar: 7.60g
- Protein: 13.20g
- Cholesterol: 52.65mg
- Sodium: 578.28mg
- Calcium: 169.46mg
- Potassium: 566.90mg
- Iron: 1.88mg
- Vitamin A: 149.39µg
- Vitamin C: 15.62mg
Helpful Technique for Perfecting Slow Cooker Gnocchi Sausage Kale Soup
When preparing your gnocchi for the soup, it's important to not overcook them. Gnocchi should be tender and slightly chewy. If overcooked, they can become mushy and lose their shape. To avoid this, add them towards the end of the cooking process, just long enough for them to heat through and absorb some of the soup's flavors. Also, using a slow cooker helps to infuse the flavors more deeply into the gnocchi and other ingredients, enhancing the overall taste of your soup.
Time-Saving Tips for Preparing This Slow Cooker Soup
Prep ahead: Chop and measure all ingredients in advance to streamline the cooking process.
Use pre-made broth: Save time by using store-bought chicken broth instead of making it from scratch.
Multi-task: While the soup is cooking, use the time to prepare other dishes or clean up the kitchen.
Organize ingredients: Arrange all the ingredients and utensils in an orderly manner before starting to cook for easy access.
Quick cleanup: Clean as you go to minimize the post-cooking mess and save time on cleanup later.
Efficient chopping: Master the art of efficient chopping to speed up the prep work for the recipe.
One-pot meal: Opt for recipes that can be cooked in a single pot or slow cooker to minimize cleanup and save time.
Substitute Ingredients For Slow Cooker Gnocchi Sausage Kale Soup Recipe
ground hot italian sausage - Substitute with ground chorizo: Chorizo has a similar spicy and flavorful profile to Italian sausage, adding a unique twist to the soup.
chicken broth - Substitute with vegetable broth: Vegetable broth can be used as a vegetarian alternative and still provides a rich base for the soup.
evaporated milk - Substitute with heavy cream: Heavy cream will add a rich and creamy texture to the soup, similar to evaporated milk.
gnocchi - Substitute with potato dumplings: Potato dumplings can be used as a substitute for gnocchi, providing a similar texture and flavor.
kale leaves - Substitute with swiss chard: Swiss chard can be used as a substitute for kale, offering a similar earthy flavor and texture.
parmesan cheese - Substitute with pecorino romano: Pecorino Romano has a similar salty and tangy flavor to Parmesan and can be used as a substitute.
crispy bacon - Substitute with pancetta: Pancetta can be used as a substitute for bacon, providing a similar savory and salty flavor to the soup.
Presentation Tips for Gnocchi Sausage Kale Soup
Elevate the plating: When presenting the dish, focus on creating a visually appealing arrangement. Use edible flowers and microgreens to add color and texture to the dish.
Incorporate artistic drizzling: Use a reduction sauce to create elegant and artistic drizzles on the soup. This adds a touch of sophistication to the presentation.
Attention to detail: Pay close attention to the rim of the serving bowl, ensuring it is clean and free of any spills or smudges. This attention to detail demonstrates professionalism and care.
Garnish with precision: Sprinkle freshly grated parmesan cheese and crispy bacon with precision, ensuring an even distribution and a polished presentation.
Use high-quality serving ware: Select elegant and high-quality serving bowls or plates to showcase the soup. The right serving ware can elevate the overall presentation of the dish.
Essential Kitchen Tools for Making Slow Cooker Soups
Food processor: A food processor is a versatile kitchen appliance that can be used for chopping, slicing, shredding, and pureeing ingredients. It's great for quickly preparing vegetables, making dough, and blending sauces.
Mixing bowl: A mixing bowl is an essential kitchen tool for combining ingredients, marinating meats, and mixing batters. It comes in various sizes and materials, such as stainless steel, glass, or ceramic.
Slow cooker: A slow cooker, also known as a crockpot, is a convenient kitchen appliance for slow-cooking soups, stews, and other dishes. It allows for long, low-temperature cooking, making it ideal for tenderizing meats and developing rich flavors.
Skillet: A skillet, or frying pan, is a flat-bottomed pan used for frying, searing, and browning foods. It's a versatile tool for cooking meats, sautéing vegetables, and making sauces.
Chef's knife: A chef's knife is a multipurpose kitchen knife with a broad blade that tapers to a point. It's suitable for a variety of kitchen tasks, including chopping, slicing, and dicing ingredients.
Cutting board: A cutting board provides a stable surface for cutting and preparing ingredients. It helps protect countertops and keeps knives sharp.
Measuring cups and spoons: Measuring cups and spoons are essential for accurately measuring ingredients in cooking and baking. They come in various sizes and are used for both dry and liquid ingredients.
Ladle: A ladle is a long-handled spoon with a deep bowl, used for serving soups, stews, and sauces. It's a convenient tool for portioning and serving liquid-based dishes.
Tongs: Tongs are versatile kitchen tools used for gripping and lifting foods, such as turning meats on a grill, tossing salads, or serving pasta.
Wooden spoon: A wooden spoon is a traditional kitchen tool for stirring, mixing, and tasting dishes. It's gentle on cookware and ideal for tasks that require precision.
Grater: A grater is a kitchen tool used to grate or shred ingredients such as cheese, vegetables, and citrus zest. It comes in various sizes and styles for different grating needs.
Soup ladle: A soup ladle is a larger ladle specifically designed for serving soups and stews. It has a deep bowl and a long handle for easy serving.
Soup bowls: Soup bowls are deep, wide-mouthed bowls designed for serving soups and stews. They come in various materials and sizes to accommodate different portion sizes.
Soup tureen: A soup tureen is a serving dish with a cover, used for serving and keeping soups and stews warm at the table. It often has a ladle for easy serving.
Storage and Freezing Instructions for Gnocchi Sausage Kale Soup
- Allow the soup to cool completely before storing or freezing.
- For storing in the refrigerator, transfer the cooled soup to an airtight container. It will keep well in the fridge for up to 4-5 days.
- When reheating refrigerated soup, you may need to add a splash of chicken broth or milk to thin it out, as the gnocchi will continue to absorb liquid over time.
- For freezing, transfer the cooled soup to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags, leaving some space at the top for expansion. Label the containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
- To reheat frozen soup, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator. Reheat the soup gently in a pot on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. You may need to add some extra broth or milk to achieve the desired consistency.
- If you plan on freezing the soup, consider undercooking the gnocchi slightly, as they will continue to soften when reheated.
- Alternatively, you can freeze the soup without the gnocchi and add freshly cooked gnocchi when reheating the soup. This will help maintain the texture of the gnocchi.
How To Reheat Leftover Gnocchi Sausage Kale Soup
To reheat leftover slow cooker gnocchi sausage kale soup, start by transferring the desired portion into a microwave-safe bowl. Cover the bowl with a damp paper towel to prevent the soup from drying out during the reheating process. Microwave on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup is heated through and steaming.
For a stovetop method, pour the leftover soup into a saucepan and heat it over medium-low heat. Stir the soup frequently to ensure even heating and to prevent the gnocchi from sticking to the bottom of the pan. If the soup appears too thick, add a splash of chicken broth or water to thin it out. Heat the soup until it reaches your desired temperature, then serve immediately.
If you have a considerable amount of leftover soup, you can reheat it in your slow cooker. Transfer the soup to the slow cooker and set it to low heat. Cover and let the soup warm through for about 1-2 hours, stirring occasionally. This method is particularly useful if you need to keep the soup warm for an extended period, such as during a party or gathering.
For a crispy twist, try reheating the soup in the oven. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer the leftover soup to an oven-safe dish and cover it with foil. Place the dish in the preheated oven and bake for 15-20 minutes, or until the soup is heated through. Remove the foil during the last 5 minutes of baking to allow the top of the soup to brown slightly and the gnocchi to crisp up.
Regardless of the reheating method you choose, be sure to taste the soup and adjust the seasoning as needed before serving. The flavors may have mellowed during storage, so a sprinkle of fresh parmesan cheese, a dash of black pepper, or a squeeze of lemon juice can help revive the soup's taste. Garnish with fresh herbs, such as basil or parsley, for added freshness and visual appeal.
Interesting Fact About Gnocchi Sausage Kale Soup
Gnocchi sausage kale soup is a hearty and comforting dish that is perfect for a cozy night in.
Is Making Gnocchi Sausage Kale Soup at Home Cost-Effective?
The cost-effectiveness of this slow cooker gnocchi sausage kale soup recipe is quite high. The ingredients are relatively affordable and can be found in most grocery stores. The use of Italian sausage, gnocchi, and kale provides a hearty and satisfying meal for a family of four. The approximate cost for this recipe is around $20, making it a budget-friendly option. The overall verdict for this recipe is 9/10, as it offers a delicious, nutritious, and economical meal for the whole family.
Is This Comforting Soup Healthy or Unhealthy?
The slow cooker gnocchi sausage kale soup recipe is a hearty and flavorful dish, but it may not be the healthiest option due to several factors:
- The use of high-fat ingredients like ground hot Italian sausage and evaporated milk can increase the overall calorie and saturated fat content of the soup.
- The recipe calls for a significant amount of salt, which may be a concern for those watching their sodium intake.
- While the soup does include some vegetables like onions, carrots, celery, and kale, the proportion of these ingredients compared to the sausage and gnocchi is relatively low.
To make this recipe healthier, consider the following suggestions:
- Swap the ground hot Italian sausage for a leaner protein option, such as ground turkey or chicken sausage, to reduce the overall fat content.
- Use low-fat or skim milk instead of evaporated milk to decrease the calorie and fat content while still maintaining a creamy texture.
- Increase the amount of vegetables in the soup, such as doubling the carrots, celery, and kale, to boost the fiber and nutrient content.
- Reduce the amount of salt used in the recipe and consider using low-sodium chicken broth to help control the overall sodium levels.
- Opt for whole wheat or legume-based gnocchi to increase the fiber content and nutritional value of the dish.
- Serve the soup with a side salad or additional steamed vegetables to create a more balanced and nutrient-dense meal.
Editor's Opinion on This Comforting Gnocchi Sausage Kale Soup
This slow cooker gnocchi sausage kale soup recipe is a delightful combination of flavors and textures. The hot Italian sausage adds a rich and spicy kick, while the gnocchi provides a comforting and hearty element. The addition of kale brings a fresh and nutritious component to the dish. The use of evaporated milk and cornstarch creates a creamy and luscious base, making this soup a truly satisfying meal. The incorporation of parmesan cheese and crispy bacon as garnishes adds a delightful finishing touch. Overall, this recipe is a wonderful choice for a cozy and flavorful soup that is sure to impress.
Enhance Your Slow Cooker Gnocchi Sausage Kale Soup Recipe with These Unique Side Dishes:
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Why trust this Slow Cooker Gnocchi Sausage Kale Soup Recipe:
This recipe offers a delightful combination of flavors and textures, creating a hearty and satisfying soup. The hot Italian sausage brings a spicy kick, while the addition of gnocchi provides a comforting and filling element. The inclusion of kale adds a nutritious touch, and the blend of Italian seasoning and aromatic garlic infuses the dish with rich, savory notes. The use of evaporated milk and cornstarch results in a creamy and luscious texture, elevating the overall dining experience. Trust in the harmonious blend of ingredients to deliver a truly delightful and comforting soup.
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