As the chilly breeze of autumn dances through the trees, nothing warms the heart quite like a steaming bowl of comforting soup. This Easy Slow Cooker Italian Meatball & Gnocchi Soup is my go-to recipe for those busy evenings when the family craves a hearty meal without the fuss. With tender meatballs and soft gnocchi simmered in a rich, flavorful broth, it strikes the perfect balance between indulgence and wholesome nourishment. Plus, it’s wonderfully versatile—you can swap the meatballs for turkey or plant-based alternatives depending on your dietary needs. Not only is this dish a family-friendly choice that even picky eaters will adore, but it’s also an easy, slow cooker meal that allows you more time to relax after a long day. Ready to dive into a bowl of this Italian-inspired comfort? Let’s get cooking! Why is This Soup a Must-Try? Comforting, hearty meal: This Italian Meatballs & Gnocchi Soup envelops you in warmth with every spoonful, ensuring a cozy evening. Minimal Prep: Just toss the ingredients into the slow cooker and let it work its magic—ideal for busy families! Flavorful Variety: You can easily customize the recipe to suit your taste—try using Teriyaki Turkey Meatballs for a twist! Nutritional Boost: Packed with vegetables and protein, it’s not only filling but also nourishing. Crowd-Pleaser: Even picky eaters can’t resist this combination of tender meatballs and soft gnocchi in a rich tomato broth. Experience true comfort this autumn with a steaming bowl of this delightful soup! Italian Meatball & Gnocchi Soup Ingredients • Get ready for comfort in a bowl! For the Meatballs Ground Beef or Turkey – These provide essential protein; turkey is a leaner option. Breadcrumbs – Helps bind the meatballs together; gluten-free breadcrumbs can be used for dietary needs. Egg – Acts as a binder; replace with a flax egg for a vegan option. Parmesan Cheese – Adds flavor; optional for gluten-free or vegan versions. Italian Seasoning – Brings that classic Italian flair; feel free to adjust based on preference. For the Soup Base Canned Tomatoes (2 cans, 400g each) – Form the rich broth’s base; opting for crushed tomatoes gives a thicker texture. Vegetables (Carrots, Celery, Onions) – Adds nutrients and depth; use whatever you have on hand for versatility. Vegetable or Chicken Stock – Enhances the soup’s flavor; low sodium versions are smart for controlling salt. For the Gnocchi Gnocchi – Soft, pillowy goodness that acts as the star in this dish; both fresh or frozen work wonders. Garnishes Fresh Basil – Sprinkle on top for added visual appeal and freshness. Parmesan Cheese (for garnish) – Elevates the dish’s flavors; sprinkle it generously before serving. Ready to savor the comforting embrace of this Italian Meatball & Gnocchi Soup? Let’s bring these simple ingredients together for a meal that’s sure to delight! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Easy Slow Cooker Italian Meatball & Gnocchi Soup Step 1: Combine Ingredients In your slow cooker, begin by adding the ground meatballs, canned tomatoes, and any chopped vegetables like carrots and celery. Pour in enough chicken or vegetable broth to cover the mixture well. Stir gently to combine the ingredients evenly, ensuring the broth is well mixed with the tomatoes and vegetables. This forms the hearty base for your Italian Meatballs & Gnocchi Soup. Step 2: Cook Low and Slow Set your slow cooker to low and cover it with the lid. Allow the soup to cook for 4 to 5 hours, which lets the flavors meld beautifully. Check occasionally and ensure the meatballs are cooked through and the vegetables are tender. You’ll know it’s ready when you can easily bite into a meatball and see the vibrant color of the soup. Step 3: Add Gnocchi About 30 minutes before serving, gently add the gnocchi to the slow cooker. Stir the gnocchi into the bubbling soup, allowing them to soften and cook without becoming mushy. This is when your Easy Slow Cooker Italian Meatball & Gnocchi Soup comes together, and the aroma will start to fill your kitchen with comforting, mouthwatering scents. Step 4: Serve and Garnish Once the gnocchi have cooked through and the soup is bubbling, it’s time to serve! Ladle the steaming soup into bowls, ensuring each serving gets a good mix of meatballs, gnocchi, and broth. Top each bowl with a sprinkle of grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil for an extra touch of flavor and color. Enjoy your hearty meal! What to Serve with Easy Slow Cooker Italian Meatball & Gnocchi Soup As the rich aromas fill your home, it’s delightful to think about what delicious sides can accompany this comforting bowl of goodness. Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the flavorful broth, crusty bread adds a satisfying crunch and is a classic companion. Garlic Toast: The buttery, garlicky goodness pairs beautifully with the soup, adding a touch of crunch and flavor. Fresh Salad: A light arugula or spinach salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the hearty soup. Roasted Vegetables: Tossed with olive oil and herbs, roasted seasonal vegetables not only enhance the nutritional value but also add a wonderful depth of flavor. Parmesan Cheese: A sprinkle on top before serving enhances every bite and elevates the dish’s classic Italian flavors. Wine Pairing: A glass of Chianti complements the tomato base wonderfully, making it perfect for a cozy night in. Trying different pairings can elevate your meal to new heights, making dinner a truly special occasion! How to Store and Freeze Italian Meatballs & Gnocchi Soup Fridge: Store leftover Italian Meatballs & Gnocchi Soup in an airtight container for up to 2 days. This will keep the flavors fresh while allowing for easy reheating later. Freezer: To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to freezer-safe containers. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Reheating: Reheat your soup thoroughly on the stove or in a microwave-safe bowl. If the gnocchi appears too soft after freezing, consider adding fresh, cooked gnocchi to the reheated soup for better texture. Serving Size: When preparing to freeze, portion out individual servings to make it convenient to enjoy a warm bowl of comfort whenever the craving strikes! Expert Tips for Italian Meatballs & Gnocchi Soup Browning Meatballs: Consider browning your meatballs in a skillet before adding to the slow cooker for added flavor, although it’s not mandatory. Cooking Time Adjustment: Every slow cooker is different; test doneness earlier to avoid overcooking the meatballs and gnocchi. Frozen Gnocchi: If using frozen gnocchi, add them just 15 minutes before serving to prevent mushiness. Vegetable Variety: Feel free to mix in any leftover veggies; just ensure they cook down nicely in the soup. Add Fresh Herbs: Stir in fresh herbs like parsley or thyme right before serving to elevate the flavor of your Italian Meatballs & Gnocchi Soup. Italian Meatballs & Gnocchi Soup Variations Feel free to customize your Italian Meatballs & Gnocchi Soup for delightful new flavors and textures! Turkey Meatballs: Swap in ground turkey for a leaner alternative while keeping all the deliciousness intact. They add a lighter touch, making the soup a healthier option without sacrificing flavor. Plant-Based Meatballs: Use your favorite plant-based meatballs to create a vegan version. This swap caters to veggie lovers while ensuring every spoonful is still hearty and enjoyable. Different Pasta: Try tortellini or ditalini instead of gnocchi for a fun change in texture. The different shapes add a unique flair, giving the soup a whole new personality! Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to raise the heat level and give your soup a warming kick. This addition is perfect for those who love a little spice in their meal. Leafy Greens: Toss in fresh spinach or kale in the last 10 minutes of cooking. Not only will it brighten the dish with color, but it will also boost the nutritional value wonderfully! Herb Infusion: Mix in fresh or dried herbs like rosemary or thyme to enhance the flavor profile. A subtle herbaceous note can transform your soup into a fragrant masterpiece. Creamy Twist: Stir in a splash of cream or coconut milk before serving for a luxurious, creamy texture. This makes for a rich finish that adds depth to your comforting bowl of soup. Canned Tomatoes Variations: Experiment with different varieties of canned tomatoes, like fire-roasted or diced with garlic. Each type brings its unique flavor, ensuring every batch is a bit different! Feel free to dive into these variations and make this Italian Meatballs & Gnocchi Soup your own! For more recipe ideas, consider pairing this with a comforting Zucchini Soup or serve it alongside a delicious Cowboy Soup for a delightful meal experience. Make Ahead Options This Easy Slow Cooker Italian Meatball & Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can prepare the meatballs and vegetable mixture up to 24 hours in advance—simply combine them in your slow cooker insert and store it in the refrigerator to keep everything fresh. When you’re ready to cook, just add the stock and set your slow cooker to low. For the best quality, add the gnocchi during the last 30 minutes of the cooking time, allowing them to absorb all the flavors without turning mushy. With this strategy, you’ll have a comforting, hearty meal that feels home-cooked, even on the busiest of evenings! Italian Meatballs & Gnocchi Soup Recipe FAQs How do I choose the right meatballs for my soup? Absolutely! The choice of meatballs can greatly affect the flavor and texture of your soup. I recommend using ground beef for traditional meatballs, but if you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey meatballs are a fantastic alternative. For a plant-based version, consider using vegetarian meatballs that still offer that comforting heartiness. Whichever you choose, just make sure they are cooked through before serving. What’s the best way to store leftover Italian Meatballs & Gnocchi Soup? Very good question! Store your leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. This helps preserve the rich flavors while making it easy to reheat later. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, just warm it up on the stove or in the microwave. Make sure to stir it well to evenly heat the soup! Can I freeze Italian Meatballs & Gnocchi Soup? Yes, indeed! To freeze your soup, first, allow it to cool completely. Then, transfer it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. You can freeze it for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to serve, simply thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop. If the gnocchi become too soft after freezing, add some freshly cooked gnocchi just before serving for a perfect texture. What should I do if my soup is too thick? Very common! If you find your soup a bit thicker than desired, simply stir in some additional broth or water until you reach the desired consistency. I often recommend doing this gradually, checking the texture as you go, to ensure it’s just how you like it. Are there any dietary considerations I should be aware of? Absolutely! This Easy Slow Cooker Italian Meatball & Gnocchi Soup can be easily adapted for various dietary needs. For a gluten-free version, use gluten-free breadcrumbs in the meatballs and ensure your gnocchi is gluten-free. If you have concerns about allergies, be cautious with the cheese and choose plant-based alternatives if necessary. This soup is nut-free and can be made egg-free by substituting the egg in the meatballs with a flax egg (1 tablespoon of ground flaxseed mixed with 3 tablespoons of water). How long does it take to cook in a slow cooker? For this cozy dish, let your slow cooker work its magic for about 4 to 5 hours on low. Cooking times can vary by model, so check for meatballs being fully cooked and veggies being tender after the 4-hour mark. If you’re using frozen meatballs, I suggest checking them a bit earlier to prevent overcooking. Comforting Italian Meatballs & Gnocchi Soup for Cozy Nights This Italian Meatballs & Gnocchi Soup is the perfect comforting dish for chilly nights, combining rich flavors and hearty ingredients. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 5 hours hrsTotal Time 5 hours hrs 15 minutes mins Servings: 6 servingsCourse: SoupCuisine: ItalianCalories: 350 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Meatballs1 lb Ground Beef or Turkey Turkey is a leaner option.1 cup Breadcrumbs Use gluten-free breadcrumbs for dietary needs.1 large Egg Can substitute with a flax egg for a vegan option.1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Optional for gluten-free or vegan versions.1 tbsp Italian Seasoning Adjust based on preference.For the Soup Base2 cans Canned Tomatoes 400g each; crushed tomatoes recommended.2 cups Vegetables (Carrots, Celery, Onions) Use whatever you have on hand.4 cups Vegetable or Chicken Stock Low sodium recommended.For the Gnocchi1 lb Gnocchi Fresh or frozen works well.Garnishes1/4 cup Fresh Basil For added flavor.1/2 cup Parmesan Cheese Sprinkle generously before serving. Equipment Slow Cooker Method Cooking InstructionsIn your slow cooker, add the ground meat, canned tomatoes, and chopped vegetables. Pour in enough stock to cover the mixture and stir to combine.Set your slow cooker to low and cover. Cook for 4 to 5 hours until flavors meld and meatballs are cooked through.About 30 minutes before serving, gently add the gnocchi to the slow cooker and stir to combine.Serve in bowls topped with grated Parmesan cheese and fresh basil. Nutrition Serving: 1bowlCalories: 350kcalCarbohydrates: 40gProtein: 25gFat: 12gSaturated Fat: 5gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 4gCholesterol: 70mgSodium: 800mgPotassium: 700mgFiber: 3gSugar: 5gVitamin A: 300IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 150mgIron: 3mg NotesConsider browning the meatballs for added flavor. You can use leftover vegetables for added nutrients. Adjust cooking time based on your slow cooker model. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
