Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup

Cozy, One-Pot Comfort in Every Spoonful

Few dishes deliver comfort as effortlessly as a warm bowl of soup—but creamy tomato gnocchi soup takes that comfort to a whole new level. Imagine tender, pillowy gnocchi floating in a velvety tomato broth enriched with cream, garlic, and aromatic herbs. It’s hearty yet refined, cozy yet elegant, and simple enough for weeknights while impressive enough for guests.

This soup brings together the nostalgic flavor of classic tomato soup and the satisfying texture of gnocchi, creating a dish that feels both familiar and exciting. Unlike traditional tomato soup that relies on bread or grilled cheese for substance, this version is a complete meal in one bowl.

Whether you’re craving a cozy winter dinner, a rainy-day lunch, or an easy one-pot recipe that tastes restaurant-worthy, this creamy tomato gnocchi soup delivers every time.


Why This Recipe Works So Well

This recipe is carefully balanced to achieve richness without heaviness and comfort without blandness.

  • Gnocchi adds heartiness without needing meat
  • Crushed tomatoes provide depth and natural sweetness
  • Cream smooths acidity for a luxurious finish
  • Garlic and onion build flavor from the base up
  • One-pot method keeps cleanup minimal

The result is a soup that tastes slow-simmered but comes together quickly—perfect for busy days when you still want something special.


🍅 Ingredients

Soup Base

  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 small onion, finely diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 1 can (28 oz) crushed tomatoes
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp salt (adjust to taste)
  • ½ tsp black pepper
  • ½ tsp dried basil
  • ½ tsp dried oregano

Gnocchi & Cream

  • 1 lb potato gnocchi (shelf-stable or fresh)
  • ¾ cup heavy cream
  • ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional but recommended)

Garnish (Optional)

  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Cracked black pepper
  • Extra Parmesan
  • Cream drizzle

🥣 Instructions

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and sauté for 4–5 minutes until soft and translucent.
  3. Add garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
  4. Stir in tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen flavor.
  5. Pour in crushed tomatoes and vegetable broth, stirring well.
  6. Add salt, pepper, basil, and oregano. Bring to a gentle simmer.
  7. Simmer uncovered for 10 minutes to blend flavors.
  8. Add gnocchi and cook according to package instructions (usually 2–3 minutes).
  9. Reduce heat to low and stir in heavy cream.
  10. Add Parmesan cheese if using and stir until melted.
  11. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  12. Serve hot, garnished with fresh basil and extra cream if desired.

What Makes Gnocchi Perfect for Soup

Gnocchi are small Italian dumplings traditionally made from potatoes, flour, and egg. Unlike pasta, gnocchi are soft and pillowy, making them ideal for soups where texture matters.

In this creamy tomato gnocchi soup, they absorb just enough broth to become tender without falling apart. Their mild flavor allows the tomato base to shine while adding substance that turns soup into a full meal.


Tips for the Best Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup

  • Use crushed tomatoes, not diced, for a smooth texture
  • Don’t overcook gnocchi—they’re done when they float
  • Add cream after simmering, never before boiling
  • Taste before serving—tomatoes vary in acidity
  • For extra richness, finish with a knob of butter

Delicious Variations

Spinach Tomato Gnocchi Soup

Stir in fresh spinach at the end for color and nutrients.

Spicy Tomato Gnocchi Soup

Add red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne.

Vegan Version

Use coconut cream or cashew cream instead of dairy.

Protein Boost

Add white beans or cooked Italian sausage.

Roasted Tomato Version

Roast tomatoes first for deeper flavor.


Serving Suggestions

This soup pairs beautifully with:

  • Grilled cheese sandwiches
  • Garlic bread or focaccia
  • Simple green salad
  • Roasted vegetables
  • Crusty sourdough

It’s hearty enough on its own but shines even brighter with a crispy, buttery side.


Storage & Reheating

  • Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days
  • Reheat gently over low heat
  • Add a splash of broth or cream when reheating
  • Avoid freezing (cream and gnocchi don’t reheat well frozen)

Cultural & Comfort Context

Tomato-based soups have long been associated with warmth, nostalgia, and comfort. By incorporating gnocchi—a staple of Italian home cooking—this soup bridges cultures, blending rustic European tradition with modern one-pot convenience.

It’s the kind of dish that feels like a hug in a bowl.


Why This Soup Is Perfect for Any Season

While especially comforting in colder months, creamy tomato gnocchi soup is surprisingly versatile. Light enough for spring evenings, rich enough for winter nights, and easy enough for busy weekdays—it’s a year-round favorite.

Creamy Tomato Gnocchi Soup

A cozy one-pot soup featuring pillowy gnocchi simmered in a rich, creamy tomato broth with garlic and herbs.
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 bowls
Course: Dinner, Soup
Cuisine: Comfort, Italian
Calories: 410

Ingredients
  

Soup Base
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 onion diced
  • 4 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tbsp tomato paste
  • 28 oz crushed tomatoes canned
  • 4 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 0.5 tsp black pepper
  • 0.5 tsp dried basil
  • 0.5 tsp dried oregano
Gnocchi & Cream
  • 1 lb potato gnocchi
  • 0.75 cup heavy cream
  • 0.25 cup Parmesan cheese optional

Equipment

  • Large pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon
  • Knife
  • Cutting board

Method
 

  1. Heat olive oil in a large pot and sauté onion until soft.
  2. Add garlic and tomato paste, cooking until fragrant.
  3. Stir in crushed tomatoes, broth, and seasonings.
  4. Simmer for 10 minutes to develop flavor.
  5. Add gnocchi and cook until tender.
  6. Lower heat and stir in cream and Parmesan.
  7. Taste, adjust seasoning, and serve hot.

Notes

Add spinach or basil at the end for extra freshness.