Creamy and Hearty Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup Recipe

There’s nothing quite like a warm, creamy bowl of soup on a chilly day, and if you’re craving something indulgent yet comforting, Olive Garden’s Gnocchi Soup is the perfect choice.

A delicious combination of pillowy gnocchi, rich cream, savory vegetables, and just the right amount of seasoning, this soup has become a favorite at Olive Garden for good reason.

What if you could make it right in your own kitchen?

In this recipe, we’ll guide you through how to recreate this beloved soup, bringing that restaurant-quality experience to your home with simple ingredients and easy steps.

Whether you’re making it for a cozy weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this gnocchi soup is sure to impress.

What is Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup?

Olive Garden’s Gnocchi Soup is a creamy, hearty soup that blends the soft texture of potato gnocchi with a velvety, flavorful broth.

The dish is known for its combination of tender gnocchi, fresh spinach, and aromatic vegetables like carrots and celery, all swimming in a rich and creamy base made from chicken broth and heavy cream.

What makes this soup so irresistible is the balance of flavors—the savory vegetables complement the richness of the cream, while the gnocchi adds a satisfying, pillowy bite.

Originally a staple on Olive Garden’s menu, this soup has earned a loyal following due to its comfort food qualities.

Whether enjoyed as a light meal or paired with other dishes, it provides a sense of warmth and satisfaction that only the best comfort foods can deliver.

The beauty of this recipe lies in how easy it is to prepare at home while still capturing that signature restaurant flavor.

It’s a dish that feels gourmet but is simple enough to prepare on any busy day, making it a perfect go-to option for busy families or anyone looking for a heartwarming meal.

Health Benefits:

• Rich in Fiber: This soup contains a good amount of fiber from the gnocchi and vegetables, helping to support digestive health and maintain a feeling of fullness.
  
• Good Source of Protein: The soup offers a nice serving of protein, especially from chicken, which helps in muscle repair, immune function, and overall body maintenance.
  
• High in Vitamins: With ingredients like spinach and carrots, this soup provides a boost of essential vitamins like Vitamin A and Vitamin C, which promote healthy skin, vision, and immune function.
  
• Supports Bone Health: The calcium in this recipe, from the dairy and spinach, contributes to maintaining strong bones and teeth.
  
• Antioxidant Properties: The vegetables in this soup, such as spinach and carrots, are packed with antioxidants, which help fight oxidative stress and reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

Ingredients Needed for Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup

To create a delicious, homemade version of Olive Garden’s famous Gnocchi Soup, you’ll need a handful of simple yet flavorful ingredients.

Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need:

• Gnocchi: The star of the soup. You can use store-bought gnocchi or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous.
  
  Fresh gnocchi works best, but frozen gnocchi is a convenient alternative.
  
• Chicken Broth: Provides the savory base for the soup. You can opt for low-sodium chicken broth to control the salt levels or use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
  
• Heavy Cream: This is what gives the soup its signature rich and velvety texture. Don’t skimp on the cream—it’s what makes this soup so indulgent.
  
• Carrots and Celery: These vegetables add both flavor and texture, bringing a bit of crunch and sweetness to the soup.
  
• Fresh Spinach: For a pop of color and added nutrition. Fresh spinach wilts perfectly into the creamy broth, adding a delicate and mild flavor.
  
• Garlic and Onion: These aromatics are essential for building the base flavors of the soup.
  
• Olive Oil: Used for sautéing the vegetables, giving them a bit of richness and depth.
  
• Thyme and Parsley: Fresh thyme adds an earthy note, while parsley is a great garnish to add a fresh, herby finish.
  
• Salt and Pepper: For seasoning the soup to taste, these simple seasonings are essential to highlight all the flavors.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup

Now that you have your ingredients ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions to make this cozy soup.

This recipe is simple, yet incredibly flavorful, and with these easy steps, you’ll be savoring your own homemade Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup in no time.

Step 1: Prepare the Vegetables

Start by prepping your vegetables.

Peel and slice the carrots, chop the celery, and dice the onion. Mince the garlic.

This will help speed up the cooking process once you start sautéing.

In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat about 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium heat.

Add the diced onion, minced garlic, and sliced carrots.

Sauté for 3-4 minutes, until the onion is translucent and the carrots begin to soften.

Step 2: Make the Soup Base

Once the vegetables are softened and aromatic, pour in the chicken broth.

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, scraping the bottom of the pot to release any bits of flavor that may have stuck.

After the broth is simmering, add the heavy cream.

Stir everything together, allowing the soup to come to a low boil.

This will create the base of your creamy soup.

Step 3: Add the Gnocchi

Now it’s time to add the gnocchi. Gently drop the gnocchi into the simmering soup and stir.

Let the gnocchi cook in the broth for 2-3 minutes, or until they float to the top.

This floating indicator means the gnocchi are perfectly cooked and ready to soak up the delicious flavors of the soup.

Step 4: Add the Spinach

Once the gnocchi is cooked, stir in the fresh spinach.

Allow the spinach to wilt into the soup for 1-2 minutes.

The spinach will soften and add a burst of color, not to mention a nutritional boost.

Stir the soup to combine everything, ensuring the spinach is fully incorporated.

Step 5: Final Touches

Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning to your liking.

Add salt, pepper, and a pinch of fresh thyme if desired.

You can also sprinkle in some fresh parsley or additional thyme for extra flavor.

Once everything is balanced, give the soup one final stir and remove it from heat.

Tips and Tricks for the Perfect Gnocchi Soup

While making Olive Garden’s Gnocchi Soup is a simple process, a few helpful tips can ensure your soup turns out perfectly every time.

Here are some tricks to elevate your dish:

1. Use Fresh Gnocchi for Best Results

While frozen gnocchi can work in a pinch, fresh gnocchi will give you the softest, most tender texture.

If you’re up for it, making homemade gnocchi is a great way to take the soup to the next level, though store-bought varieties are quick and convenient for most home cooks.

2. Avoid Overcooking the Gnocchi

Gnocchi cooks quickly, typically floating to the surface after 2-3 minutes of simmering in the broth.

If you leave it in too long, it may become mushy. Keep an eye on it as it cooks for the perfect texture.

3. Don’t Skimp on the Cream

Heavy cream is what gives this soup its rich and velvety texture.

For the creamiest result, use full-fat cream and resist the temptation to substitute with lighter options like half-and-half or milk.

The richness is key to recreating the restaurant-style experience.

4. Add Flavorful Herbs

Fresh thyme, rosemary, and parsley not only add a pop of color but also enhance the flavor of the soup.

Feel free to play around with the seasoning to suit your taste.

Adding a pinch of Italian seasoning can also give the soup an extra burst of flavor.

5. Season to Taste

Cream-based soups can often benefit from a good amount of seasoning to cut through the richness.

Always taste the soup before serving, and adjust the salt, pepper, and any additional herbs as needed.

A squeeze of lemon juice can also help brighten up the flavor.

6. Make It a Hearty Meal

If you’d like to make this soup even more substantial, consider adding protein.

Grilled chicken, sausage, or even crispy bacon bits can be added to make it a more filling dish.

Alternatively, adding some extra vegetables like zucchini or potatoes can increase the soup’s heartiness without changing the flavor profile.

7. Store Leftovers Properly

If you have leftovers, let the soup cool before storing it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

The gnocchi will absorb more of the broth as it sits, so you may want to add a little extra chicken broth or cream when reheating to keep the soup at the right consistency.

How to Serve Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup

Serving Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup is an opportunity to make the meal feel even more special.

Here’s how to bring everything together for a restaurant-worthy experience:

1. Pair with a Side Salad

The creamy richness of the soup can be nicely complemented with a light, fresh salad.

A simple side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, red onions, and a tangy balsamic vinaigrette dressing will balance the heaviness of the soup and add a refreshing contrast.

2. Serve with Crusty Bread

No bowl of soup is complete without some bread for dipping.

A warm, crusty baguette or Italian bread will do the trick.

You can even serve a side of garlic bread to enhance the flavors of the soup and create a more indulgent meal.

Just slice and toast the bread for the perfect accompaniment.

3. Garnish with Fresh Herbs

Garnishing your soup with fresh parsley adds a touch of color and a light burst of flavor that enhances the overall presentation.

If you’re feeling extra indulgent, a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese or a drizzle of extra cream on top can take it up a notch.

4. Serve in Individual Bowls

For a more elegant presentation, serve the soup in individual bowls instead of a communal pot.

This allows your guests to enjoy the soup at its freshest and also adds a personal touch to the meal.

5. Pair with a Wine or Beverage

This creamy soup pairs beautifully with a light white wine, such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

For a non-alcoholic option, sparkling water or iced tea with a slice of lemon will work well, adding a refreshing contrast to the richness of the soup.

With these tips on how to serve Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup, you can create a memorable, satisfying meal that rivals the restaurant version.

Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or a cozy gathering, this soup will undoubtedly become a new favorite.

Storage Instructions:

• Refrigerator: Allow the soup to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container.
  
  It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
  
• Freezer: For longer storage, you can freeze the soup.
  
  Place it in a freezer-safe container and freeze for up to 3 months.
  
  When ready to enjoy, thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat on the stove over low heat.
  
• Reheating: Reheat leftovers on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally.
  
  Add a splash of water or broth if the soup thickens too much during storage.

Recipe Variation:

1. Vegetarian Version: Replace the chicken with vegetable broth and add more veggies like carrots, celery, and spinach for a hearty vegetarian version of the soup.
   
2. Spicy Option: For a kick of spice, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the soup for a flavorful heat.
   
3. Dairy-Free: For a dairy-free alternative, substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk or a dairy-free cream alternative. You can also use dairy-free cheese if desired.
   
4. Meat Lover’s Version: Add cooked sausage or bacon to the soup for a richer, more indulgent version.
   
5. Herb Twist: Experiment with different herbs like rosemary or thyme for a fresh, aromatic flavor in the soup.

Conclusion

Olive Garden’s Gnocchi Soup is a comforting, hearty dish that brings warmth and flavor with every spoonful.

Its creamy texture, tender gnocchi, and savory vegetables make it the perfect choice for a cozy dinner, and the best part is, it’s easy to recreate at home.

With a handful of simple ingredients and a few easy steps, you can enjoy this beloved soup any time you crave something satisfying and indulgent.

Whether you’re making it for a weeknight meal or serving it to guests, this homemade version is sure to impress.

So, grab your ingredients, follow the recipe, and treat yourself to a delicious bowl of comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

• Can I make Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup in advance?

Yes! You can prepare the soup in advance and store it in the fridge for up to 3 days.

The flavors may even develop and improve overnight.

When reheating, add a little extra chicken broth or cream if the soup has thickened too much, as gnocchi will absorb the liquid over time.

• Can I freeze Olive Garden Gnocchi Soup?

It’s not recommended to freeze this soup, as the cream and gnocchi may not hold up well when thawed and reheated.

The texture of the gnocchi can become mushy, and the cream might separate.

If you plan on freezing, consider leaving the gnocchi out and adding it fresh when you reheat the soup.

• Can I use frozen gnocchi instead of fresh?

Absolutely! While fresh gnocchi tends to be softer, frozen gnocchi works just as well in this recipe.

Just add it directly to the soup, and it will cook in the same way as fresh gnocchi.

• How can I make this soup vegetarian?

To make a vegetarian version of this soup, simply substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth.

Skip any meat add-ins like chicken or sausage, and keep the rest of the ingredients the same.

The soup will still be rich and flavorful thanks to the creamy base and savory vegetables.

• How can I make this soup spicier?

If you enjoy a little heat, you can add a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes, chopped fresh chili peppers, or even a dash of hot sauce to the soup.

Add them when you’re seasoning the soup to taste in the final step to control the level of spiciness.