Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal

Why Make This Recipe

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is perfect for chilly days or when you need a cozy meal. This soup is rich, creamy, and packed with flavor. It’s a wonderful way to combine the deliciousness of bacon and cheese with soft, pillowy gnocchi. Plus, it’s easy to make and will quickly become a favorite in your household.

How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

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)
• ¼ tsp dried thyme
• ½-1 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
• 16 oz gnocchi
• 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
• 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp)

Directions

1. Cook the bacon until it is crispy. Once done, chop it and set it aside.
2. In a large pot, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sliced carrots. Sauté until they are tender.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
4. Add the heavy cream, seasonings, and shredded cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese melts and the mixture is smooth.
5. Now, add the gnocchi to the pot and cook for about 2 minutes or until they are soft.
6. Stir in the cooked bacon, adjust seasonings if needed, and serve hot.

How to Serve Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

Serve the soup in bowls and garnish with extra cheese or a sprinkle of green onions if desired. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping. A light salad can also be a nice addition to balance the meal.

How to Store Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

You can store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it on the stove over low heat before serving. You may need to add a splash of chicken broth or cream to loosen it up, as it may thicken when stored.

Tips to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

• For extra flavor, you can use homemade chicken broth if you have it.
• Feel free to adjust the spice level by adding more or less red chili flakes, depending on your taste.
• If you want a lighter soup, you can substitute half-and-half with regular milk or use less cream.

Variation

You can add vegetables like spinach or kale for a nutritious boost. If you prefer a vegetarian version, you can omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

FAQs

Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works well. Just add it directly to the soup without thawing.

Can I make this soup in advance?
Yes, but it’s best to add the gnocchi just before serving to keep them from getting mushy.

What can I use instead of cheddar cheese?
You can use other types of cheese, such as Gruyère or mozzarella, but cheddar adds a distinct flavor that is hard to beat.