If you are craving a cozy, rich, and downright comforting bowl to warm up any day, this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe is your new best friend. Creamy and cheesy, with tender gnocchi soaking up all those savory flavors from crisp bacon and a luscious broth, every spoonful is like a warm hug. This isn’t just any soup—it’s a perfect blend of textures and tastes that make it such a satisfying treat. Whether it’s a chilly evening or anytime you want to indulge, this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe has a way of making your kitchen smell like happiness and your taste buds shout with joy.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic behind this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe lies in its simple but essential ingredients. Each one plays a crucial role, from the smoky bacon that starts the flavor base to the cheesy richness that brings everything together beautifully.
- 6 oz. bacon, chopped: Provides a savory, crispy base that infuses the soup with smoky depth.
- 3 cloves garlic, minced: Adds a fragrant punch that elevates the whole dish.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings sweetness and body to the flavor foundation.
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour: Essential for thickening the soup to a creamy, silky consistency.
- 3 cups chicken broth: Creates a rich and flavorful liquid base that ties all ingredients together.
- 1 cup milk: Adds smoothness and balances richness without overpowering.
- 1 cup heavy cream: The secret to that indulgently creamy texture you’ll fall in love with.
- 1 lb potato gnocchi: Soft little pillows that soak up the soup’s goodness, making each bite heavenly.
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded: Melts into gooey, tangy perfection for that classic cheese-soup flavor.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Simple seasonings that enhance all the other flavors.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Adds a subtle spicy kick if you like a bit of heat.
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish: Fresh and crisp, they add the perfect colorful finish.
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Step 1: Crisp the Bacon
Begin by cooking the chopped bacon over medium heat in a large pot until it turns irresistibly crispy. This renders flavorful fat that forms the hearty base of your soup, so don’t toss it out! Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set it aside, leaving that rich bacon fat behind to jumpstart the flavor.
Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Onion
Next, add the minced garlic and finely chopped onion to the pot. Sauté gently until the onion becomes translucent and tender, releasing its natural sweetness and fragrant aroma. This step layers in depth and softness that balance the smoky bacon perfectly.
Step 3: Add the Flour
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour evenly over the aromatic garlic and onion mixture. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes to cook out that raw flour taste, while starting to thicken the base. This little trick is the key to achieving the soup’s creamy, luscious texture you’re dreaming of.
Step 4: Stir in Liquids
Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Once smooth, add the milk and heavy cream, blending everything into a perfectly smooth and velvety soup base. This combination of liquids brings rich creaminess and that comforting body that makes this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe unforgettable.
Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi
Bring your soup gently to a simmer and add the potato gnocchi. Let them cook right in the simmering broth, following package instructions—usually around 3 to 4 minutes—until they float to the top, signaling they’re tender and ready to soak up all those flavors.
Step 6: Melt in the Cheese and Season
Stir in the shredded sharp cheddar cheese slowly, allowing it to melt fully into the soup, creating that iconic gooey, cheesy texture. Taste and season with salt, pepper, and a dash of cayenne pepper if you want a gentle spicy warmth that plays so nicely against the cheese and bacon.
Step 7: Reintroduce the Bacon
Return the reserved crispy bacon to the pot, stirring it through the creamy soup to spread the smoky goodness in every bite. This step locks in the savory crunch and bursts of flavor that define this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe.
Step 8: Serve Hot with Garnishes
Ladle the soup into bowls while hot, then top with sliced green onions and extra crispy bacon bits for a fresh, crunchy finish. These garnishes brighten the rich dish and add visual appeal, making every bowl as inviting as it is delicious.
How to Serve Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Garnishes
Don’t underestimate the power of garnishes here. Fresh sliced green onions add a pop of color and subtle bite, while extra crispy bacon bits deliver that irresistible smoky crunch. For an extra touch, sprinkle a little more sharp cheddar or even a drizzle of sour cream if you like it extra indulgent.
Side Dishes
Pairing this soup with crusty bread or garlic breadsticks makes for a well-rounded meal. The bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup and soaks up every delicious morsel. A simple mixed green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the soup inside hollowed-out mini bread bowls or add a sprinkle of crispy fried onions on top for an unexpected savory crunch. You can also portion it into small ramekins for a charming appetizer at dinner parties that will wow your guests with both taste and presentation.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the garnishes separate to preserve their texture and freshness.
Freezing
This soup freezes well but be mindful that the gnocchi may soften after thawing. Freeze the soup in portions without garnishes for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
Reheating
Gently reheat the soup on the stove over low to medium heat, stirring frequently to keep it smooth and prevent scorching. Add a splash of milk or cream if it thickens too much. Add fresh garnishes just before serving for that perfect finishing touch.
FAQs
Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon can be a leaner alternative, though it tends to be less smoky and crispy. Adjust cooking times accordingly and you’ll still have a tasty result.
Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, swap the bacon for smoked paprika or liquid smoke for that bacon-like flavor and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Skip adding real bacon, or use plant-based bacon substitutes.
Can I substitute the gnocchi with pasta?
Yes, small pasta shapes like mini shells or elbow macaroni can work if you don’t have gnocchi on hand. Cook them separately and add to the soup just before serving to avoid overcooking.
How spicy is the optional cayenne pepper? Will it overwhelm the soup?
The cayenne pepper is optional and used in small amounts to add a gentle background warmth without overpowering. Feel free to omit it if you prefer a milder, creamy cheese soup.
What cheese works best if I don’t have sharp cheddar?
Sharp cheddar is ideal for its tangy flavor, but you can use other mature cheeses like aged gouda or even a good-quality Colby jack. Avoid pre-shredded cheese blends with anti-caking agents, as they don’t melt smoothly.
Final Thoughts
I cannot recommend this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe enough if you’re seeking a bowl of pure comfort and joy. It’s a beautiful marriage of crisp bacon, melty cheddar, pillowy gnocchi, and creamy broth that feels like a warm hug every time. Invite some friends or family, share this delicious soup, and watch it become a forever favorite in your recipe rotation. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be making it over and over!
Print
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
- Yield: 6 servings
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
This rich and comforting Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup combines crispy bacon, creamy cheddar cheese, and tender potato gnocchi in a luscious broth. Perfect for chilly days, this easy-to-make soup offers a flavorful blend of smoky, cheesy, and slightly spicy notes wrapped in a velvety texture that warms you from the inside out.
Ingredients
Meat
- 6 oz bacon, chopped
Vegetables & Aromatics
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 green onions, sliced for garnish
Dry Ingredients
- 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for spice)
Liquids & Dairy
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
Pasta
- 1 lb potato gnocchi
Instructions
- Cook Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot for flavor.
- Sauté Aromatics: Add minced garlic and chopped onion to the pot. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until the onion turns translucent, about 3-5 minutes.
- Add Flour: Sprinkle the flour over the garlic and onion mixture. Stir continuously for about 2 minutes to cook out the raw flour taste and create a roux base.
- Add Liquids: Gradually pour in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to prevent lumps. Then add the milk and heavy cream, continuing to stir until the mixture is fully smooth and combined.
- Simmer with Gnocchi: Bring the soup base to a gentle simmer. Add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually 3-4 minutes, or until gnocchi float to the top.
- Incorporate Cheese and Seasoning: Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until fully melted into the soup. Season with salt, pepper, and cayenne pepper if using, adjusting to taste.
- Return Bacon: Add the cooked bacon back into the pot, reserving some for garnish if desired, and stir to combine.
- Serve: Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish with sliced green onions and additional crispy bacon bits for extra flavor and texture.
Notes
- For a spicier kick, increase cayenne pepper to 1 teaspoon or add a pinch of red pepper flakes.
- Use whole milk instead of heavy cream for a lighter soup, though it will be less creamy.
- Leftover soup can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days and reheated gently on the stovetop.
- Substitute turkey bacon for a leaner alternative, adjusting cooking time as needed.
- Make sure not to overcook gnocchi to avoid them becoming too mushy; follow package instructions closely.
