Creamy Tomato Basil Gnocchi Soup Recipe

You’re going to love this super-easy Tomato Basil Gnocchi Soup recipe — vegetarian, full of flavor, and ready in about 15 minutes!

Serve with a crispy baguette for dipping and add a Quinoa Caprese Salad for a delicious soup-and-salad combo.

Gnocchi soup in white crocks with spoons

This post has been sponsored by Barilla America, Inc. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Tomato Basil Gnocchi Soup

Gnocchi sits somewhere between pasta and dumplings — pillowy, comforting, and perfect in a warm tomato-basil broth. This quick, vegetarian soup relies on a high-quality tomato and basil sauce to deliver big flavor with very little fuss. It’s an ideal weeknight meal when you want something cozy without a lot of hands-on time.

Tomato basil gnocchi soup in white bowls with spoons

Why this recipe works

This soup is easy because the jarred tomato-basil sauce provides balanced seasoning and a great texture, so you only need a handful of fresh ingredients to finish the dish. Fresh or refrigerated gnocchi cooks quickly right in the simmering soup, and tender spinach and fresh basil brighten the bowl. The result is a satisfying, family-friendly meal in about 15 minutes.

Ingredients

  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 cup diced onion
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups fresh spinach
  • 24 oz tomato & basil pasta sauce
  • 3 cups vegetable broth (or chicken broth if not vegetarian)
  • 24 oz refrigerated gnocchi (or frozen/dry gnocchi; see notes)
  • 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the diced onions, minced garlic, and fresh spinach. Sauté for about 5 minutes, until the onions are translucent and the spinach is wilted.
  3. Pour in the tomato-basil sauce and the vegetable broth. Stir, then bring the soup to a gentle simmer.
  4. Add the refrigerated gnocchi and simmer for 2–3 minutes, until the gnocchi are tender. If using dried or frozen gnocchi, add an extra 1–2 minutes — test one piece to ensure it’s cooked through.
  5. Remove from heat. Ladle into bowls and top with chopped fresh basil. Serve immediately.

Quick tips and variations

  • Extra vegetables: Toss in diced zucchini, bell peppers, or carrots when you sauté the onions for added texture and nutrition.
  • Spice it up: Sprinkle crushed red pepper flakes on top or stir a pinch into the simmering soup for mild heat.
  • Gluten-free option: Use cauliflower gnocchi or a certified gluten-free gnocchi product. The other ingredients here are naturally gluten free.
  • Protein add-ins: If you want to add protein, cooked shredded chicken or a can of drained beans (such as cannellini) work well without overwhelming the flavors.
  • Gnocchi guidance: Fresh/refrigerated gnocchi cooks fastest and gives a soft texture. If using dried or frozen, allow a little more time and check for doneness before serving.

Serving suggestions

Serve this soup with crusty bread or a toasted baguette for dunking. A simple green salad or a caprese-style salad pairs nicely to create a complete meal. Garnish with extra basil and a drizzle of good extra-virgin olive oil for added richness.

Shopping and preparation notes

The jarred tomato and basil sauce used here makes the recipe quick and consistent; look for a high-quality variety with a texture and flavor you enjoy. Fresh refrigerated gnocchi is often found near the deli or refrigerated pasta section, while dry or frozen gnocchi will be in the pasta aisle or freezer section. Adjust cook time according to the gnocchi package instructions.

Nutrition snapshot (per serving)

Approximate values from the original recipe: 456 kcal, 84 g carbohydrates, 11 g protein, 9 g fat, 1946 mg sodium. Nutrition will vary by brand of sauce, broth, and gnocchi used.

Bowl of soup, sitting on Vons bag with two spoons and jar of tomato sauce

Notes

  • Gnocchi: Fresh or refrigerated gnocchi is recommended for the best texture and fastest cook time. If using dried or frozen gnocchi, add 1–2 minutes to the simmering time and test a piece for tenderness.
  • Gluten-free: To make the soup gluten free, choose fresh, frozen, or dried gluten-free gnocchi. All other ingredients in this recipe are naturally gluten free.

Gnocchi soup in white crock on wood serving tray with spoons

This quick Tomato Basil Gnocchi Soup is a dependable, cozy meal that’s easily customized. It’s ideal for busy weeknights when you want a warm, comforting dinner without spending much time in the kitchen.