If you’re on the hunt for a soul-warming meal that combines cheesy goodness with a savory crunch, this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe is going to be your new best friend. Creamy, hearty, and packed with flavor, it’s the kind of comfort food that wraps you up in a cozy blanket with every spoonful.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Comfort in Every Spoon: The rich blend of creamy cheddar and crispy bacon creates a comforting soup that hits all the right notes.
- Quick & Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s the perfect go-to for both busy weeknights and lazy weekends.
- Gnocchi Magic: Those pillowy gnocchi pieces add a delightful twist, making the soup satisfyingly hearty.
- Family Favorite: It’s a recipe that wins over all ages thanks to its approachable ingredients and flavors.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe lies in its simple, wholesome ingredients that come together to create layers of flavor. Each one plays a crucial role—from the salty crunch of bacon to the smooth richness of cheddar and cream.
- Bacon: The star for that irresistible savory crunch and smoky depth.
- Butter or Olive Oil: Helps to soften the veggies and build a flavorful base.
- Onion & Carrots: These add sweetness, texture, and a subtle earthiness.
- Chicken Broth: Provides the savory soup foundation, elevating all other flavors.
- Salt, Pepper, Garlic Powder, Thyme, Red Chili Flakes: These seasonings bring warmth and a gentle kick, balancing the soup beautifully.
- Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy dumplings that are the heart of the dish.
- Heavy Cream or Half-and-Half: Makes the soup unbelievably creamy and indulgent.
- Cheddar Cheese: The gooey, sharp finish that melts into every spoonful with pure comfort.
Variations
Feel free to make this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe your own! It’s wonderfully adaptable, so whether you want it a little spicier or dairy-free, or need to swap out ingredients based on what you have, it’s got your back.
- Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and use smoked paprika to add that savory depth instead, plus add some mushrooms for an earthy touch.
- Cheese Swap: Try gouda or Monterey Jack for a milder, creamier twist, or toss in pepper jack if you love a spicy kick.
- Gnocchi Alternatives: Use small pasta like shells or ditalini if gnocchi isn’t available; it’ll still be deliciously hearty.
- Heavy Cream Substitute: For a lighter soup, swap cream for full-fat coconut milk or cream cheese for a tangy richness.
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Cook the Bacon to Crispy Perfection
Start by frying those bacon slices in a large pot over medium heat until they’re irresistibly crispy. The aroma alone will have you hooked. Once cooked, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to drain off excess grease. Leave about a tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot—this will add incredible flavor to the soup.
Step 2: Sauté Your Veggies
Add your butter or olive oil to the pot with the reserved bacon fat. Toss in the diced onions and sliced carrots, stirring often so they soften evenly and release their natural sweetness, about 5 to 7 minutes. This creates a fragrant, flavorful base that sets the stage for the soup’s depth.
Step 3: Season and Simmer
Pour in the chicken broth, then sprinkle in salt, black pepper, garlic powder (or fresh minced garlic), dried thyme, and red chili flakes. Give it a good stir and bring everything to a gentle simmer. This is where those seasonings infuse and the soup starts coming to life.
Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi
Add the gnocchi directly into the simmering broth. They’ll float to the top once cooked, usually within 2 minutes. Their pillowy texture absorbs the soup’s flavor perfectly, making every bite a delight.
Step 5: Craft the Creamy Cheese Finish
Lower your heat to medium-low and slowly pour in the heavy cream. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, allowing it to melt smoothly without clumping. This step transforms the soup from simple broth to a luscious, velvety dream.
Step 6: Add Bacon and Serve
Stir in most of your crispy bacon pieces, reserving some for garnish. Ladle the soup into warm bowls and sprinkle extra cheese and bacon on top for that extra wow factor. Serve immediately, and prepare for instant comfort food bliss.
Pro Tips for Making Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Crisp Bacon First: Cooking bacon to crispy perfection before the soup lets you save the bacon fat for amazing flavor without making the soup greasy.
- Add Cheese Gradually: Adding cheddar slowly and off the highest heat prevents it from curdling and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
- Simmer Gently: Keep the soup at a gentle simmer to avoid overcooking the gnocchi, which can turn mushy quickly.
- Balance the Heat: Adjust the red chili flakes carefully for your comfort level so the spicy notes enhance rather than overpower the flavors.
How to Serve Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Garnishing your soup is the perfect way to add a little texture and visual appeal. Sprinkle crispy bacon bits, extra shredded cheddar, and even some freshly chopped green onions or parsley for a pop of color and brightness. A sprinkle of cracked black pepper right before serving also amps up the flavor.
Side Dishes
This rich soup pairs wonderfully with something light to balance it out. Think crusty garlic bread, a simple green salad with a zingy vinaigrette, or roasted Brussels sprouts. These sides offer crunch and freshness that complement the soup’s creamy, cheesy heartiness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup in mini bread bowls for a rustic, cozy vibe. You could also layer the soup and toppings in clear bowls to showcase those enticing layers of cheese, bacon, and gnocchi. Finally, offer a small tray of mix-in toppings like extra cheese, crumbled bacon, and fresh herbs, letting guests customize their bowls.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Once cooled, transfer your soup to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. The flavors actually deepen overnight, making leftovers just as delicious (if not more so) as fresh bowls.
Freezing
You can freeze this soup in portions, but keep in mind the cream and cheese might slightly change texture when thawed. Use freezer-safe containers and consume within 1-2 months for best quality. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stove over low heat to avoid curdling the cheese. Stir frequently, and add a splash of broth or cream if the soup seems too thick. Microwave reheating works too but in short bursts with stirring in between.
FAQs
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Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply omit the bacon and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. Adding smoked paprika or liquid smoke can provide a similar smoky depth to the soup.
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What if I can’t find gnocchi?
You can swap gnocchi for small pasta such as mini shells or ditalini. They won’t have the same pillowy texture, but will still make the soup satisfying and hearty.
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How can I make this soup less rich?
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream, and reduce the amount of cheese slightly. Also, removing some of the bacon grease helps cut down on heaviness without sacrificing flavor.
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Can I prepare this soup ahead of time?
Yes! You can prepare the soup up to 24 hours ahead, then reheat gently before serving. Just be sure to store it in the fridge and add fresh cheese or bacon garnish right before serving for the best texture.
Final Thoughts
This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe is everything comfort food dreams are made of—rich, cheesy, and perfectly cozy. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or just to treat yourself after a long day, it’s guaranteed to warm your heart and your belly. Give it a try, and watch it become a beloved staple in your kitchen!
PrintBacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe
This comforting Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup combines crispy bacon, tender gnocchi, and a creamy cheddar cheese broth for a rich and satisfying meal. Perfect for a cozy dinner, this soup is packed with flavor from sautéed vegetables and warming spices, making it a hearty choice for any day of the week.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8-10 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1-2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder or 4 cloves minced garlic
- 1/4 tsp dried thyme
- 1/2-1 tsp red chili flakes
- 16 oz gnocchi
- 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups cheddar cheese, medium or sharp, shredded
Instructions
- Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Discard most of the bacon grease, leaving about 1 tablespoon in the pot.
- Sauté the Vegetables: Add the butter or olive oil to the pot. Stir in the diced onions and sliced carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes until the vegetables become soft and fragrant.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and red chili flakes. Stir well to combine the flavors and let it simmer briefly to meld the seasonings.
- Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook according to package instructions, usually about 2 minutes, until they float to the surface and are tender.
- Stir in Cream and Cheese: Lower the heat to medium-low and slowly add the heavy cream. Gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese to ensure a smooth, creamy texture without clumps.
- Add Bacon and Serve: Mix in the crispy bacon pieces, reserving some for garnish. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with extra cheese and bacon if desired. Serve warm and enjoy.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase the red chili flakes to your preference.
- Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version of the soup.
- Leftover soup can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Substitute turkey bacon for a leaner option.
- Fresh garlic cloves can be used instead of garlic powder for a stronger garlic flavor.
