This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a warm bowl of comfort! With soft gnocchi, crispy bacon, and creamy cheddar cheese, it’s rich and delicious.
The best part? It cooks up quickly, so you can enjoy it any night of the week. I usually make it when I’m craving something cozy and tasty—perfect for chilly days!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Crispy bacon adds a wonderful smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too, though it won’t be as crispy. You can also skip the bacon entirely for a vegetarian version by using olive oil and smoked paprika for a similar flavor.
Gnocchi: Store-bought potato gnocchi saves time, but homemade adds a special touch. If you can’t find gnocchi, consider using small pasta shapes like orzo or even dumplings as a substitute.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the soup a robust flavor. If you want a milder taste, use medium cheddar or a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack. Vegan cheese can be an option for a dairy-free version; just ensure it melts well.
Heavy Cream: This adds richness, but half-and-half or whole milk can work too. For a lighter soup, coconut milk offers creaminess while being dairy-free.
How Do I Make My Gnocchi Soup Creamy and Flavorful?
To achieve a creamy texture without clumps, the key step is to make a roux by combining flour and butter. Cook it gently to avoid a raw flour taste. Then, slowly whisk in the broth and cream. This will give you a smooth base.
- Cook the bacon and set aside to keep its crunch.
- Use the rendered fat to sauté onions and garlic until soft but not browned—this builds flavor.
- When adding the gnocchi, let it cook just until tender—overcooking can make it mushy.
- For the cheddar, stir in off the heat to prevent it from becoming grainy.
Following these steps will give you a deliciously creamy soup that’s hard to resist! Enjoy your cooking!
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded, divided
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20-25 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need roughly 35-40 minutes to enjoy a hearty bowl of this comforting Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by placing a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and cook until it becomes crispy and golden. Once it’s ready, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels to drain. Make sure to leave the bacon fat in the pot for extra flavor!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot, add the unsalted butter into the leftover bacon fat. Once the butter has melted, toss in the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is translucent and soft. Next, add the minced garlic and give it a stir for another minute, until it’s fragrant.
3. Make a Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly to create a roux. Cook for about 2-3 minutes—this will help thicken your soup without any raw flour taste.
4. Add Liquids and Season:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to avoid clumps. Next, stir in the heavy cream, Dijon mustard, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, which will help blend all those lovely flavors together.
5. Cook the Gnocchi:
Add the gnocchi to your simmering soup. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes, until they float to the surface and are tender. This is when the magic happens!
6. Stir in the Cheddar:
Now it’s time to make this soup cheesy! Reduce the heat to low and stir in 1 1/2 cups of the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until it melts and the soup is creamy. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
It’s finally time to enjoy your soup! Serve it hot in bowls, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon, any remaining cheddar cheese, and a sprinkle of freshly chopped parsley. You can also add an extra grind of black pepper for a finishing touch. Enjoy!
This creamy, cheesy soup with tender gnocchi and smoky bacon is perfect for a comforting meal! Enjoy!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi without any issues! Just add it directly to the soup and cook according to package instructions, adjusting the cooking time slightly if needed. No thawing required!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make this soup vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add some diced vegetables like carrots or celery for added flavor and texture!
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup up to a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge without the gnocchi in an airtight container. When you’re ready to serve, reheat it on the stove and add the gnocchi to cook fresh.
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently over medium heat on the stove, stirring occasionally until heated through. If the soup thickens, you can add a splash of broth or milk to loosen it up.
