Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is the kind of cozy meal I turn to when I want something quick but extra comforting. Tender gnocchi and crispy bacon come together in a velvety cheddar-infused broth for a dinner that feels special yet simple enough for busy weeknights. Each bowl is hearty creamy and totally irresistible when you want warmth in every bite.

The first time I simmered a pot of this soup my kitchen smelled incredible and my family could not wait to dig in. Now it is my go-to when the weather turns chilly or I need an easy dinner with almost no cleanup.

Ingredients

• Bacon: cooked until crispy and chopped brings rich smoky flavor Be sure to pat off excess fat for best texture
• Butter or olive oil: provides deep flavor and gets the cooking started Choose high quality butter for the richest base
• Large onion: diced forms the sweet aromatic base Look for firm onions that feel heavy for their size
• Carrots: peeled and sliced give sweetness and some earthiness Pick carrots that are firm and bright
• Chicken broth: brings the soup together with savory depth Homemade or low sodium is best for control over flavor
• Salt: seasons all the layers Start light and add as needed at the end
• Black pepper: adds warmth and balances creaminess Fresh cracked is ideal
• Garlic powder or minced garlic: infuses each spoonful with savory punch Use fresh cloves for a bold flavor
• Dried thyme: gives gentle herby aroma Go for a fresh jar for full effect
• Red chili flakes: optional if you like gentle heat Add a pinch at a time so it does not overpower
• Gnocchi: becomes pillowy soft and super filling Go for store bought or homemade gluten free varieties if needed
• Heavy cream or half and half: creates a lush creamy soup Use well chilled dairy for smoothness
• Shredded cheddar cheese: brings sharp tangy flavor Medium or sharp cheddar melts best and adds amazing richness

Step-by-Step Instructions

Cook the bacon:

Lay bacon strips in a cold skillet Cook over medium heat until deeply golden and crisp about ten minutes Drain and chop into rough pieces Set aside on a plate to keep crisp

Sauté onions and carrots:

Heat butter or oil in a large soup pot over medium heat Add diced onion and carrots Stir often and cook for about eight minutes until the onion is translucent and carrots are just beginning to soften This is important for depth of flavor in the finished soup

Add broth and simmer:

Pour the chicken broth into the pot Raise the heat to bring to a gentle simmer Scrape any golden bits from the bottom of the pot with a wooden spoon These bits add even more savory notes

Incorporate cream and seasonings:

Lower the heat slightly Pour in heavy cream or half and half Stir in salt black pepper garlic powder or minced garlic dried thyme and if using red chili flakes Add the shredded cheddar a handful at a time stirring between each addition until melted and fully blended

Add gnocchi:

Drop the gnocchi into the bubbling soup Stir gently Cook for about two minutes or until the gnocchi float and turn pillow soft Taste a piece to know they are done

Finish with bacon and adjust:

Return the chopped bacon to the soup Stir well Taste the broth and add more salt or pepper as needed Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy right away for best texture

Pin

The gnocchi in this soup are what turn it into pure comfort My favorite part is watching them puff up in the pot and knowing each spoonful will be buttery soft This soup often brings my family to the table before I even call them because the smell is irresistible

Storage Tips

Cool any leftovers quickly and transfer to an airtight container Keep in the fridge for up to three days When reheating use a gentle low heat on the stovetop and add a splash of broth or milk if the soup thickens too much The gnocchi may continue to soften but the flavors only get better

Ingredient Substitutions

If you need it lighter swap half and half instead of heavy cream Choose turkey bacon for a leaner twist Veggie broth is a good substitute if you want to make it meatless Use gluten free gnocchi for a celiac friendly version and feel free to toss in a handful of baby spinach or kale right before serving for an extra green boost

Serving Suggestions

Serve this soup with crusty bread or a simple side salad for a complete meal Sometimes I scatter a little extra shredded cheddar on top before serving It is also delicious with a sprinkle of fresh chives or cracked pepper

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Soup’s Origin and Comfort Food Status

Gnocchi has Italian roots and combining it with a cheddar broth and bacon leans into classic American comfort food territory This soup feels like something you would find in a cozy mountain cabin It is a crowd pleaser no matter where you are

Recipe FAQs

→ How do I keep gnocchi from getting mushy?

Add gnocchi at the end and simmer just until tender, about 2 minutes, to prevent overcooking and keep firmness.

→ Can I use store-bought gnocchi?

Yes, packaged gnocchi works great. Simply add it to the simmering soup and cook until soft.

→ Is there a way to lighten the soup?

Swap heavy cream for half-and-half and increase vegetables, like spinach or kale, for a lighter, nutritious result.

→ How should leftovers be stored?

Cool soup, transfer to an airtight container, and refrigerate for up to three days. Reheat gently and add broth if needed.

→ Can I make this soup gluten free?

Use gluten free gnocchi to suit dietary needs. All other listed ingredients are naturally gluten free.

→ What cheeses pair well with cheddar in this dish?

Try a mix of cheddar and Gruyere or Fontina for extra creamy texture and depth of flavor.