As the evenings grow chillier, there’s nothing quite like the cozy aroma of a simmering soup wafting through the house. This Comforting Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup is a soulful dish that brings together tender chicken, pillowy gnocchi, and vibrant spinach in a creamy parmesan broth. Not only is it a family-friendly option perfect for busy weeknights, but the beauty of this recipe lies in its effortless preparation—just set it and forget it! Imagine coming home to a steaming bowl of goodness, ready to warm you up after a long day. Plus, the gentle embrace of comfort food makes every spoonful a delightful experience. Ready to dive into this heartwarming recipe that’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen? Let’s get cooking!
Why is this soup perfect for busy nights?
Effortless Preparation: This Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup requires minimal hands-on time—just toss in the ingredients and let your crock pot do the work.
Comforting Warmth: Each bowl is like a warm hug, combining the rich flavors of chicken and creamy broth with the lightness of spinach.
Customizable Ingredients: Change it up with sweet potatoes, or use rotisserie chicken for even quicker prep! For more ideas on versatile meals, check out my Slow Cooker Garlic Parmesan Chicken and Potatoes recipe.
Family Favorite: Kids and adults alike will love the tender gnocchi and savory goodness, making this soup a hit around the dinner table.
Storing Made Easy: Leftovers keep well in the fridge, allowing you to enjoy it throughout the week without hassle.
Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup Ingredients
For the Base
• Celery – adds a fresh, aromatic crunch to the soup.
• Carrots – provides natural sweetness and color to the broth.
• Onion – enhances overall flavor with a savory base.
• Dried parsley – contributes herbal notes to the dish.
• Garlic – infuses the soup with a rich flavor.
• Dried thyme – contributes earthy undertones to the soup.
• Salt & Pepper – essential for seasoning the soup.
For the Protein
• Chicken breasts – main protein source that deepens the broth’s flavor.
• Chicken broth – acts as the soup’s base, crucial for flavor.
For Creaminess
• Heavy cream – creates a rich, creamy texture.
• Ground nutmeg – adds warmth and depth to the broth.
• Cornstarch – thickens the soup elegantly for a velvety finish.
For the Main Ingredients
• Gnocchi – main component that gives heartiness and texture.
• Fresh spinach – provides a vibrant note and essential nutrients.
• Parmesan cheese – enhances flavor and richness of the soup.
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup
Step 1: Prepare Vegetables
Begin by dicing the celery, carrots, and onion into uniform 1/4-inch pieces to ensure even cooking. In a large mixing bowl, combine these veggies with the dried parsley, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper. This aromatic medley will amp up the flavor of your comforting Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup, setting a delicious foundation.
Step 2: Combine Ingredients
Pour 4 cups of chicken broth into the slow cooker. Next, add the whole chicken breasts followed by the seasoned vegetable mixture prepared in the first step. Stir gently to combine everything well, ensuring the chicken is submerged in the rich broth. This will create a flavorful base that will enhance as it simmers.
Step 3: Cook
Set your slow cooker to low and let it work its magic for 6-7 hours, or use the high setting for 3-4 hours. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken is tender enough to easily shred with forks. The delightful aroma wafting through your kitchen is a sure sign that this Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup is coming together beautifully.
Step 4: Shred Chicken
Once the cooking time is up, carefully remove the chicken breasts from the slow cooker and allow them to cool slightly. After a few minutes, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces using two forks, then set aside. This step ensures the chicken is evenly distributed throughout the soup, adding hearty substance to each bowl.
Step 5: Make Creamy Base
In a separate bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg until the mixture is smooth and free of lumps. This luscious cream base will enrich your soup, providing that irresistible creamy consistency that makes the Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup so comforting.
Step 6: Combine
Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, and then pour in the cream mixture. Stir everything together gently, integrating the creamy base into the flavorful broth and chicken. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes to thicken slightly, creating a luxurious texture that’s perfect for a cozy meal.
Step 7: Add Gnocchi
Increase the slow cooker heat to high and add 3 cups of gnocchi to the pot. Cook for an additional hour, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are tender and have absorbed the delicious flavors of the broth. This step will transform the soup into a filling dish, with pillowy gnocchi creating a delightful texture.
Step 8: Finish with Spinach and Cheese
Stir in 1 1/2 cups of fresh spinach and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving. The spinach should wilt beautifully, while the cheese melts, merging into the hearty broth. This final touch elevates the Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup with added nutrients and a burst of flavor.
Step 9: Serve
Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed, adding more salt or pepper based on your preference. Ladle the comforting Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup into warm bowls, ready to be enjoyed. Pair it with crusty bread or a simple salad, and savor the warm, delicious flavors created effortlessly.
What to Serve with Comforting Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup
Discover the delightful pairings that can elevate your meal and enhance the cozy experience of this hearty soup.
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Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, its crispy exterior and soft inside complement the creamy soup beautifully, soaking up every tasty drop.
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Garlic Knots: Soft, buttery, and garlicky, these knots add both flavor and texture, making each bite of soup even more satisfying together.
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Simple Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing provide a refreshing contrast, balancing the soup’s richness while adding vibrant color to your table.
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Roasted Vegetables: Caramelized on the outside and tender on the inside, a medley of seasonal veggies like carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers serves as a nutritious accompaniment.
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Parmesan Crisps: Add a crunchy texture that pairs splendidly with the soft gnocchi, creating an irresistible bite filled with cheesy goodness.
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Sparkling Water with Citrus: A refreshing drink like sparkling water with a squeeze of lemon or lime can cleanse the palate, enhancing the soup’s comforting flavors.
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Apple Crisp: For dessert, a warm apple crisp topped with ice cream creates a sweet finish to the meal, embracing the cozy comfort theme perfectly.
Crafting the perfect meal around your comforting Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup is sure to warm your heart and delight your taste buds!
Expert Tips for Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup
Add Gnocchi Later: Always introduce gnocchi in the last hour of cooking. This prevents them from becoming mushy and keeps their delightful texture intact.
Whisk Cream Thoroughly: For a smooth finish, whisk the heavy cream and cornstarch together before adding to the soup. This avoids any clumping in your comforting Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup.
Shred Chicken Small: Shred your cooked chicken into small, bite-sized pieces. This ensures even distribution throughout the soup, enhancing every bowl’s texture and flavor.
Season at the End: Always taste your soup before serving and adjust the seasonings as needed. This allows the flavors to develop beautifully as they cook, making your soup even more delectable.
Fresh Spinach Addition: Add the spinach right before serving. Overcooking can cause it to wilt too much, losing its vibrant color and nutritional benefits.
How to Store and Freeze Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days. Make sure to let the soup cool completely before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup without adding the gnocchi and cream. This way, it can stay fresh for up to 3 months.
Reheating: Gently warm on the stove over low heat, adding extra broth or cream as needed to restore consistency. Consider adding fresh spinach during reheating for a vibrant touch.
Serving Suggestion: Always taste and adjust seasoning after reheating to ensure the flavors shine in your comforting Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup.
Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup Variations
Feel free to add your personal touch to this comforting dish, exploring flavors and ingredients that excite your palate!
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Vegetable Boost: Add peas, corn, or bell peppers for extra color and nutrition. These vibrant additions will make every spoonful even more delightful.
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Gluten-Free Option: Swap traditional gnocchi with gluten-free potato gnocchi to accommodate dietary needs. It allows everyone to enjoy the comfort without compromise!
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Creamy Mushroom Twist: Include sliced mushrooms for an earthy flavor profile. Sauté them before adding to the soup for an aromatic depth that pairs beautifully with the creaminess.
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Herbal Infusion: Consider adding fresh herbs like basil or dill near the end of cooking. Their aromatic qualities will enhance the soup’s freshness, offering a burst of garden flavor.
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Spicy Kick: If you’re feeling adventurous, add a dash of red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for a heat element. This fiery twist contrasts the creamy broth remarkably well.
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Substituting Protein: Instead of chicken, try using turkey breast or even shredded rotisserie chicken for quick prep. These options lend their flavors nicely while saving time in the kitchen.
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Cheese Variation: Experiment with cheeses! A sharp Cheddar or Gouda can add a new creamy dimension that takes your soup to the next level.
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Herbal Broth: Enhance the broth by using homemade chicken stock or adding a bay leaf during cooking. Homemade broth brings a rich, wholesome flavor that can elevate your soup experience.
For more ideas on versatile meals, check out my Coconut Curry Soup or Meatball Mashed Potato recipes to spark your culinary creativity!
Make Ahead Options
This Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep, allowing you to save time during busy weeknights! You can chop the vegetables (celery, carrots, and onion) and mix them with spices up to 24 hours in advance. Store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. You can also cook the chicken and broth mixture ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days; just reheat it before adding the gnocchi. When ready to serve, complete the recipe by whisking in cream, cornstarch, and spices, then add the gnocchi and finish with spinach. This multitasking approach will ensure your soup is just as delicious and comforting, making meal planning a breeze!
Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of potatoes work best for gnocchi?
I recommend using starchy potatoes like russets or Yukon golds for making gnocchi, as they yield a light and pillowy texture. Avoid waxy varieties as they might result in a denser gnocchi.
How should I store leftover Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup?
Store your leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Allow the soup to cool completely before sealing to maintain its flavor and freshness. When reheating, you may need to add a little extra broth or cream to restore the consistency.
Can I freeze Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup?
Absolutely! For optimal texture, freeze the soup before adding the gnocchi and cream. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to a freezer-safe container, where it can be stored for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it, defrost in the fridge overnight and reheat gently on the stove, adding the gnocchi and cream shortly before serving.
What should I do if the soup is too thick?
If your Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup turns out thicker than you’d like, simply stir in some additional chicken broth or water. For a creamier texture, add a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half, and reheat gently until warmed through. This will restore the soup to a lovely, comforting consistency.
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Yes, you can easily turn this into a vegetarian version by swapping out the chicken for a plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu, and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. To keep it creamy, you can substitute heavy cream with a plant-based cream or coconut milk.
Crock Pot Potato Gnocchi Soup: A Cozy Comfort Delight
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Begin by dicing the celery, carrots, and onion into uniform 1/4-inch pieces. In a large mixing bowl, combine these veggies with the dried parsley, garlic, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Pour 4 cups of chicken broth into the slow cooker. Next, add the whole chicken breasts followed by the seasoned vegetable mixture. Stir gently to combine.
- Set your slow cooker to low and let it cook for 6-7 hours or use high setting for 3-4 hours until chicken is tender.
- Remove the chicken from the slow cooker, shred it into bite-sized pieces using two forks, then set it aside.
- In a separate bowl, whisk together 3/4 cup of heavy cream, 1 tablespoon of cornstarch, and 1/4 teaspoon of ground nutmeg until smooth.
- Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker, pour in the cream mixture, and stir gently. Let it cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Increase the heat to high and add 3 cups of gnocchi. Cook for an additional hour until the gnocchi are tender.
- Stir in 1 1/2 cups of fresh spinach and 1/4 cup of grated Parmesan cheese just before serving.
- Taste the soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Ladle into warm bowls and serve.
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