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When the temperature drops, nothing warms you up quite like a bowl of Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana. You'll find that these 9 cozy Instant Pot recipes blend the comforting textures of tender gnocchi with rich flavors from Italian sausage and fresh greens. Each recipe offers a creative twist, making it easy to customize based on what you have on hand. Curious about which version could become your new favorite? Let's explore the options.
Key Takeaways
- Explore various cozy Instant Pot gnocchi zuppa toscana recipes featuring Italian sausage, fresh greens, and creamy broth for comforting meal options.
- Customize your soup with different vegetables, greens, or seasoning to suit your family's tastes and dietary preferences.
- Enjoy quick preparation methods in the Instant Pot, allowing you to create hearty soups in under 30 minutes.
- Incorporate variations like Tomato Basil Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana for a unique twist on the classic recipe.
- Serve your soups with crusty bread or garnished with Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of comfort and flavor.
Classic Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana

Classic Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana is a delightful and hearty soup that combines the comforting flavors of Italian sausage, fresh greens, and tender gnocchi, all simmered in a rich broth. This dish is perfect for chilly evenings when you crave something warm and filling.
The Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy to prepare, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully in a fraction of the time it would take on the stove.
This recipe isn't only delicious but also versatile, as you can easily customize it to include your favorite vegetables or adjust the seasonings to suit your taste. With its creamy texture and savory notes, Classic Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana is sure to become a favorite in your household.
Let's explore the ingredients and cooking instructions for this comforting meal.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (mild or spicy, depending on preference)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 3 cups kale or spinach, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Olive oil for sautéing
Cooking Instructions:
- Begin by selecting the sauté function on your Instant Pot. Add a drizzle of olive oil, then add the diced onion and Italian sausage. Cook until the sausage is browned and the onion is translucent, breaking the sausage into smaller pieces as it cooks.
- Stir in the minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Once the sausage and onion mixture is ready, pour in the chicken broth, scraping the bottom of the pot to deglaze. Add the heavy cream, gnocchi, chopped kale or spinach, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Stir to combine. Close the lid, set the valve to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 3 minutes. After the cooking time is up, do a quick release of the pressure. Serve hot and enjoy!
Extra Tips:
When preparing Classic Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana, feel free to experiment with different greens such as Swiss chard or collard greens for added flavor and nutrition.
If you prefer a lighter soup, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream. Additionally, for a thicker consistency, consider adding a tablespoon of cornstarch mixed with a bit of water before sealing the pot. Enjoy your comforting bowl of soup!
Creamy Spinach and Gnocchi Soup

This recipe isn't only delicious but also nutritious, making it an ideal choice for families looking for a hearty meal.
The creamy base, coupled with the tender gnocchi and vibrant spinach, creates a delightful combination of textures and flavors. Serve it with some crusty bread for a complete meal that will warm your heart and fill your belly.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 pound fresh gnocchi
- 4 cups fresh spinach, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute until fragrant. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Add the gnocchi and Italian seasoning, then secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to pressure cook on high for 2 minutes.
Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the pressure. Carefully remove the lid, then stir in the chopped spinach and heavy cream.
Season with salt and pepper to taste, and let the soup sit for a few minutes until the spinach wilts and the soup becomes creamy. Serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Extra Tips:
For a lighter version of this soup, you can substitute half-and-half for the heavy cream.
Additionally, feel free to customize your soup by adding other vegetables like carrots or peas, or even some cooked chicken for extra protein. Enjoy the flexibility of this recipe, making it your own while still savoring its cozy flavors!
Sausage and Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana

Sausage and Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana is a hearty, comforting soup that brings together the savory flavors of Italian sausage, tender gnocchi, and fresh kale in a creamy broth. This Instant Pot version allows for a quick and easy preparation, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a cozy dinner.
The combination of spices and creamy texture will warm you up from the inside out, making this dish a favorite for both families and friends alike. The beauty of this recipe lies not only in its rich flavors but also in its simplicity. With the Instant Pot, you can have a delicious, homemade soup on the table in no time.
The gnocchi cooks to pillowy perfection, soaking up all the delicious broth, while the sausage adds a satisfying bite. Top it off with some grated Parmesan cheese for an extra touch of flavor and enjoy!
Ingredients:
- 1 pound Italian sausage (sweet or spicy, your choice)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound gnocchi (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving
Cooking Instructions:
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it apart with a spoon as it cooks. Once browned, remove the sausage and set it aside, leaving the drippings in the pot.
- Add the diced onion to the pot and sauté for about 3 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and Italian seasoning, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Return the sausage to the pot and add the gnocchi. Seal the Instant Pot lid and set to manual high pressure for 4 minutes. Once finished, perform a quick release.
- After the pressure has been released, open the lid and stir in the heavy cream and chopped kale. Allow it to heat through for a couple of minutes before seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot with grated Parmesan cheese on top.
Extra Tips:
For a little extra flavor, consider adding a splash of red pepper flakes for some heat or swap out the kale for spinach if you prefer a milder green.
You can also make this dish ahead of time; just reheat gently on the stovetop. If you find the soup too thick after refrigerating, add a bit more chicken broth to loosen it up. Enjoy your comforting bowl of Sausage and Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana!
Vegetable-Loaded Gnocchi Soup

Using the Instant Pot makes this soup quick and easy to prepare, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully while retaining the nutritional benefits of the veggies. You can customize the ingredient list based on what you have on hand, making it a versatile option for any day of the week.
Serve it with crusty bread or a sprinkle of cheese for an extra touch of comfort.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 carrots, sliced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 can (14.5 ounces) diced tomatoes
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (16 ounces) gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Grated Parmesan cheese (for serving)
Cooking Instructions:
1. Turn the Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent.
Then, add the sliced carrots, diced celery, chopped zucchini, and diced bell pepper, stirring everything together for about 5 minutes.
2. Next, pour in the diced tomatoes (with juices) and vegetable broth. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Close the lid, ensuring the valve is set to sealing, and cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release.
3. After releasing the pressure, open the lid and add the gnocchi and spinach to the pot. Stir gently and allow it to sit for a few minutes until the gnocchi are heated through and the spinach has wilted.
Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Extra Tips:
For added depth of flavor, consider sautéing some chopped fresh herbs like basil or thyme along with the onions and garlic.
You can also use frozen gnocchi if that's what you have on hand—just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly.
Feel free to experiment with different seasonal vegetables or even add beans for extra protein!
Spicy Italian Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana

In this recipe, the rich flavors of Italian sausage infuse the broth, while the gnocchi adds a satisfying texture.
With just a few simple ingredients and the convenience of the Instant Pot, you can whip up a warm and filling bowl of Zuppa Toscana that will impress your family and friends.
Get ready to savor each bite!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb spicy Italian sausage (casings removed)
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 lb gnocchi
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Red pepper flakes (optional for extra spice)
Cooking Instructions:
1. Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode. Add the spicy Italian sausage and cook until browned, breaking it up into smaller pieces with a wooden spoon.
Once the sausage is browned, add the diced onion and minced garlic, sautéing until the onion is translucent.
2. Pour in the chicken broth, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pot. Stir in the Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure.
3. After the pressure has released, open the lid and add the gnocchi, kale, and heavy cream.
Stir well to combine. Switch to the sauté mode again and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the gnocchi is heated through and the kale is wilted.
Serve hot, garnished with red pepper flakes if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine after browning the sausage and before adding the broth.
This will enhance the overall taste of the soup. Additionally, feel free to adjust the spice level by using mild sausage if you prefer less heat or adding more red pepper flakes for a kick.
Enjoy your cozy meal!
Gnocchi and Kale Soup With Parmesan

Gnocchi and Kale Soup With Parmesan is a hearty and comforting dish that warms you from the inside out. The combination of tender gnocchi, nutrient-packed kale, and rich Parmesan creates a flavorful and satisfying meal that can be made quickly in your Instant Pot. Perfect for a cozy dinner or an easy lunch, this soup is certain to become a favorite.
Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it also allows for flexibility in ingredients. You can use fresh or frozen gnocchi and feel free to add in other vegetables or proteins to customize it to your taste. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you'll have a delicious soup ready to enjoy in no time.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 pound gnocchi (fresh or frozen)
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Optional: red pepper flakes for heat
Cooking Instructions:
Begin by setting your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the olive oil, diced onion, and minced garlic, cooking until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Pour in the vegetable or chicken broth, then add the gnocchi, chopped kale, dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir everything together to combine.
Close the lid of the Instant Pot and make sure the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is up, carefully perform a quick release of the pressure.
Once it has fully released, open the lid and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until melted. Serve hot, with extra Parmesan on top if desired.
Extra Tips:
For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon juice or a sprinkle of nutmeg right before serving.
If you prefer a creamier soup, you can stir in a splash of heavy cream or half-and-half after cooking. Additionally, feel free to experiment with other leafy greens like spinach or Swiss chard, and adjust the seasoning to suit your taste preferences.
Enjoy your cozy bowl of gnocchi and kale soup!
Tomato Basil Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana

The creamy broth infused with garlic, Italian spices, and a hint of heat from red pepper flakes makes this soup irresistible.
Topped with fresh basil and a sprinkle of parmesan, it's a dish that will leave you feeling cozy and satisfied. Let's gather the ingredients and get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
- 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, with juices
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup fresh basil, chopped
- Grated parmesan cheese, for serving
Cooking Instructions
- Set the Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in the minced garlic and red pepper flakes, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.
- Add the diced tomatoes (with juices), vegetable broth, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
- Then, carefully add the gnocchi to the pot. Close the lid and set the valve to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes, then quick release the pressure.
- After releasing the pressure, stir in the heavy cream and chopped basil. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.
- Let the soup heat through for a couple of minutes, then serve hot, garnished with grated parmesan cheese.
Extra Tips
For a heartier version, feel free to add cooked sausage or chopped kale to the soup before sealing the Instant Pot.
You can also substitute the heavy cream with coconut milk for a dairy-free option.
If you want to enhance the flavor even more, consider adding a splash of balsamic vinegar or a squeeze of lemon juice before serving. Enjoy your cozy meal!
Lemon Herb Gnocchi Soup

Lemon Herb Gnocchi Soup is a delightful dish that combines the comforting texture of gnocchi with the invigorating brightness of lemon and herbs. Perfect for a cozy night in or an easy weeknight meal, this soup isn't only simple to prepare but also bursting with flavor.
The Instant Pot makes it quick and efficient, allowing the ingredients to meld beautifully while keeping the gnocchi tender yet firm. This soup is a wonderful option for those looking to incorporate more comforting vegetarian dishes into their diet.
The combination of vegetables, herbs, and lemon creates a harmonious balance that's both satisfying and uplifting. Serve it with crusty bread for a complete meal that's sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup water
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 cup frozen gnocchi
- 1 cup fresh spinach
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Zest of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Cooking Instructions:
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the diced onion, garlic, carrots, and celery. Sauté for about 5 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the vegetables start to soften.
- Add the vegetable broth, water, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir well, then secure the lid on the Instant Pot, ensuring the valve is set to sealing. Cook on high pressure for 5 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of the steam.
- After releasing the steam, open the lid and stir in the frozen gnocchi, spinach, lemon juice, and lemon zest. Let the soup sit for about 5 minutes to allow the gnocchi to heat through and the spinach to wilt. Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Extra Tips:
For added depth of flavor, consider adding a splash of white wine during the sautéing process. You can also customize the soup by incorporating other vegetables you have on hand, such as zucchini or bell peppers.
If you prefer a thicker soup, use a potato masher to slightly mash some of the vegetables before adding the gnocchi. This will give the soup a creamier texture without the need for heavy cream. Enjoy your comforting Lemon Herb Gnocchi Soup!
Bacon and Potato Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana

Bacon and Potato Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana is a delightful twist on the traditional Italian dish, bringing together the comforting flavors of creamy soup, crispy bacon, and tender gnocchi. This recipe harnesses the convenience of the Instant Pot, making it an ideal weeknight meal that can be prepared in a fraction of the time.
With its rich broth and hearty ingredients, this zuppa is perfect for cozy evenings or family gatherings. This dish combines the savory essence of bacon, the earthiness of potatoes, and the delightful texture of gnocchi, resulting in a satisfying and warming soup.
The addition of kale not only adds a pop of color but also packs in nutrients, making this dish both delicious and wholesome. With just a few simple ingredients and a quick cooking process, you'll have a comforting bowl of goodness ready to enjoy in no time.
Ingredients:
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 medium potatoes, peeled and diced
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 2 cups kale, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Grated Parmesan cheese for serving (optional)
Instructions:
- Set your Instant Pot to the sauté mode and add diced bacon. Cook until crispy, then remove the bacon and set aside, leaving the drippings in the pot. Add chopped onion and garlic to the pot and sauté until the onion is translucent.
- Add the diced potatoes, chicken broth, and Italian seasoning. Stir well, then secure the lid and set the Instant Pot to manual high pressure for 8 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, perform a quick release of pressure.
- Open the lid and add the gnocchi and chopped kale to the pot. Stir in the heavy cream and let the mixture simmer on sauté mode for about 5 minutes, or until the gnocchi are cooked through. Stir in the reserved bacon, and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.
Extra Tips:
To enhance the flavor of your Zuppa Toscana, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes for a bit of heat. You can also substitute the heavy cream with half-and-half or a dairy-free alternative for a lighter version.
If you're short on time, you can use pre-cooked bacon to expedite the cooking process. This soup is best enjoyed fresh but can be stored in the refrigerator for a couple of days—just be sure to reheat gently to maintain the gnocchi's texture!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Homemade Gnocchi in These Recipes?
Absolutely, you can use homemade gnocchi in these recipes! Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary slightly, so adjust as necessary to guarantee your gnocchi turns out tender and delicious. Enjoy your meal!
What Is the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Did you know that properly stored leftovers can last up to four days in the fridge? To keep your leftovers fresh, place them in airtight containers and refrigerate immediately after cooling to maintain quality and safety.
How Long Does It Take to Cook Gnocchi in the Instant Pot?
Cooking gnocchi in the Instant Pot takes about 1 to 2 minutes under high pressure. Just make sure to release the pressure quickly afterward to keep them from getting mushy. Enjoy your perfectly cooked gnocchi!
Can I Substitute Ingredients for Dietary Restrictions?
Ah, the culinary art of substitution! Of course you can swap ingredients for dietary restrictions. Just remember, while your taste buds may sulk, your stomach will thank you for the thoughtful adjustments. Happy cooking!
Is There a Vegetarian Version of Gnocchi Zuppa Toscana?
Yes, you can definitely make a vegetarian version of gnocchi zuppa toscana. Just substitute the broth with vegetable broth, omit any meat, and add more veggies like kale or spinach for a hearty, delicious meal.