There’s something incredibly satisfying about a warm bowl of soup on a chilly night, and this Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup takes comfort food to a whole new level. The moment you plunge your spoon into the velvety broth, the crispy bacon and rich cheddar envelop your senses, while the gnocchi offers a delightful pillowy texture that’s hard to resist. I can’t tell you how many times this quick 38-minute recipe has saved me on busy weeknights or cozy weekends when I crave something hearty yet simple.
What I love most about this soup is its versatility; whether you’re looking to indulge after a long day or impress guests at your next gathering, it adapts effortlessly. Plus, it’s customizable—swap in turkey bacon for a lighter take or add your favorite veggies for an extra nutrient boost. It’s like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a cold day, and trust me, you’re going to want seconds!
Why is Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup a Must-Try?
Comforting Warmth: This soup wraps you in cozy flavors, perfect for chilly nights.
Quick to Make: Ready in just 38 minutes, it’s ideal for busy schedules.
Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves the combination of creamy cheese and savory bacon!
Customizable Goodness: Easily swap pork bacon for turkey or add seasonal veggies for variety.
Hearty Texture: The gnocchi provide a satisfying bite, making this soup hearty enough for dinner.
Satisfy your cravings with this recipe that delivers comforting warmth and quick goodness, just like homemade food.
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Ingredients
For the Soup Base
• Bacon – Use thick-cut bacon for added crunch and deep, savory flavor.
• Butter or Olive Oil – Adds depth of flavor for sautéing the vegetables beautifully.
• Onion (1 large, diced) – Serves as a sweet base, enhancing the overall flavor of the soup.
• Carrots (2 large, peeled and sliced) – Adds a hint of sweetness and texture; consider celery for a different flavor profile.
• Chicken Broth (4 cups) – The essential base of the soup; opt for low-sodium to control salt levels.
• Salt (1-2 teaspoons) – Enhances all flavors; adjust based on the saltiness of your broth.
• Pepper (1 teaspoon) – Adds mild heat and complexity to your soup.
• Garlic Powder (1 teaspoon or 4 cloves minced garlic) – Provides savory depth to the mix; either works based on what you have available.
For the Flavor Boost
• Dried Thyme (1/4 teaspoon) – Brings aromatic earthiness; fresh thyme can brighten the flavor even more.
• Red Chili Flakes (1/2-1 teaspoon) – Adds a slight kick; adjust according to your heat preference.
For the Creamy Delight
• Gnocchi (16 ounces) – The main carbohydrate; both fresh and frozen options work great.
• Heavy Cream or Half-n-Half (2 cups) – Contributes to a rich, creamy texture; half-n-half lightens it up while maintaining creaminess.
• Cheddar Cheese (2 cups, grated) – Offers robust flavor and creaminess; sharp cheddar is highly recommended for the best taste.
Dive into the delicious world of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup that brings comforting warmth and satisfying flavors straight to your dinner table!
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
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Cook the Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the thick-cut bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Set it aside on paper towels to drain, then chop it once cooled.
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Sauté Vegetables: Use the same pot and heat 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil. Add diced onion and sliced carrots, cooking for 10-15 minutes until they’re tender and the onion is translucent.
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Add Broth: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and increase the heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
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Incorporate Cream and Spices: Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in 2 cups of heavy cream or half-n-half, 1-2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/2-1 teaspoon of red chili flakes. Let simmer gently for about 5 minutes.
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Melt Cheese: Gradually add 2 cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese to the pot, stirring continuously until it melts completely, giving you a silky, creamy texture.
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Cook Gnocchi: Stir in 16 ounces of gnocchi and cook for about 2 minutes, just until tender. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
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Finish with Bacon: Add the chopped bacon back into the soup and stir well. Serve warm, topping with optional green onions and additional cheese if desired.
Optional: Garnish with freshly chopped herbs for a pop of color and freshness.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup preparations are perfect for busy home cooks looking to save time without sacrificing flavor! You can chop the vegetables (onion and carrots) and cook the bacon up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can batch-cook the soup base (steps 3 to 5) and refrigerate for up to 3 days; just wait to add the gnocchi and cheese until you’re ready to serve. When reheating, gently warm the soup on the stove and stir in the gnocchi and cheddar until melted, ensuring that your soup remains just as delicious and comforting as when it was first made!
Expert Tips for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
- Cheese Melting Technique: Gradually add cheese in small amounts while stirring to ensure it melts smoothly, avoiding clumps in your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup.
- Avoid Boiling: Once you’ve added cream, don’t let the soup boil; this preserves the creamy texture and prevents the cheese from separating.
- Season to Taste: Always taste before serving! Adjust salt and pepper levels based on the flavors of your broth to achieve the perfect seasoning.
- Explore Veggie Options: Feel free to add spinach or peas just before serving for a pop of color and nutrition without altering the comfort of the soup.
- Perfect Gnocchi Texture: Cook gnocchi only until just tender, as they will continue to cook slightly when added to the hot soup.
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Variations
Feel free to personalize this delightful soup with your favorite flavors and dietary needs!
- Turkey Bacon: Swap pork bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner alternative without sacrificing flavor.
- Cheese Varieties: Experiment with different cheeses like mozzarella for stretchiness or gouda for a smoky twist.
- Vegetable Medley: Stir in seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
- Herb Infusion: Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can elevate the aroma and taste. Simply chop and sprinkle just before serving.
- Spice It Up: Boost the heat with diced jalapeños or switch red chili flakes for a spicier pepper blend.
- Plant-Based Option: Use vegetable broth, dairy-free cream, and coconut bacon for a vegan-friendly version that feels just as cozy.
- Extra Creaminess: Add a splash of cream cheese or sour cream for an even thicker, richer broth.
- Noodle Twist: Swap gnocchi for other small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini for a different texture and experience.
Storage Tips for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Fridge: Store leftover Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps keep its rich flavors intact while chilled.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the soup in individual portions in airtight freezer bags or containers for up to 3 months. Just remember to label them!
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw frozen soup overnight in the fridge. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring in a splash of broth or cream to restore its creamy texture.
Avoid overcooking: Always reheat gently to avoid separating the cheese and cream, ensuring a smooth and comforting bowl of soup every time!
What to Serve with Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup?
A warm bowl of soup is delightful on its own, but pairing it with the right accompaniments takes your meal to the next level.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for dipping, the crispy exterior and soft interior provide a delightful contrast to the creamy soup.
- Fresh Garden Salad: A refreshing mix of greens lightens the richness of the soup, adding a burst of color and vitamins to your meal.
- Garlic Breadsticks: These buttery, garlicky delights offer a satisfying crunch that complements the velvety texture of the gnocchi soup.
- Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Their caramelized edges bring a nutty flavor and delightful crunch, making an excellent side to this hearty dish.
- Cheddar Biscuit: Soft and flaky, these biscuits echo the cheeseiness of the soup while providing an additional layer of comfort.
- Sliced Avocado: Creamy and nutritious, avocado adds a fresh, rich element that enhances the soup’s savory notes.
- Crisp Apple Slices: Sweet and crisp apples offer a refreshing contrast, cleansing your palate between bites of hearty soup.
- Cold White Wine: A chilled glass of white wine elevates the meal, balancing the savory flavors and providing a refreshing sip alongside the creaminess.
- Chocolate Chip Cookies: End your meal on a sweet note with soft, warm cookies that pair perfectly with a bowl of comforting soup.
These delightful pairings not only complement the Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup but also enhance your dining experience, making it memorable and fulfilling!
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of bacon should I use for the Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup?
Absolutely! I recommend using thick-cut bacon for a satisfying crunch and deeper flavor. This will enhance the broth’s richness and complement the creamy texture of the soup beautifully.
How should I store leftover Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To keep the flavors intact, make sure to seal it well. When reheating, gently warm it on the stovetop, stirring in a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its original creamy consistency.
Can I freeze Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup?
Yes, you can! To freeze, portion the soup into airtight freezer bags or containers, making sure to remove excess air. It will keep well for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stove, stirring frequently.
What should I do if the soup’s texture isn’t creamy after adding the cheese?
Very! If the soup doesn’t achieve that desired creamy texture, a few steps can help. First, make sure to add the cheese gradually, stirring continuously to ensure it melts smoothly. If it still seems clumpy, try blending a small portion of the soup in a blender and returning it to the pot. This can create a lovely, velvety base for the rest of the soup.
Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind?
Definitely! If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily customize this soup. Substitute pork bacon with turkey bacon for a leaner option or use dairy-free cream and cheese alternatives for a vegan version. Additionally, always check for allergies, particularly with ingredients like cheese or any added spices. Feel free to swap out veggies based on personal preferences or allergies too!
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup: Creamy Comfort in 38 Minutes
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the thick-cut bacon until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Set it aside on paper towels to drain, then chop it once cooled.
- Use the same pot and heat 2 tablespoons of butter or olive oil. Add diced onion and sliced carrots, cooking for 10-15 minutes until they’re tender and the onion is translucent.
- Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and increase the heat. Bring it to a gentle simmer, allowing the flavors to meld together beautifully.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low and stir in 2 cups of heavy cream or half-n-half, 1-2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/2-1 teaspoon of red chili flakes. Let simmer gently for about 5 minutes.
- Gradually add 2 cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese to the pot, stirring continuously until it melts completely, giving you a silky, creamy texture.
- Stir in 16 ounces of gnocchi and cook for about 2 minutes, just until tender. Taste and adjust seasoning with more salt and pepper if needed.
- Add the chopped bacon back into the soup and stir well. Serve warm, topping with optional green onions and additional cheese if desired.
