Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

There’s nothing quite like the warm, comforting hug of a hearty soup on a chilly day. Our Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup combines crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, tender potato gnocchi, and a rich creamy broth to create a bowl that’s pure comfort in every spoonful. From the first bite, you’ll notice how the savory bacon and melted cheddar bring depth and warmth, while the soft gnocchi adds the perfect chewy texture.

Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or just craving a cozy night in, this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is simple enough to whip up in under an hour yet impressive enough to make guests feel special. The combination of fresh ingredients, easy techniques, and hearty flavors makes this recipe a keeper. (Quick tip: you can make the soup even faster by using pre-cooked bacon and store-bought gnocchi without compromising taste.)

This recipe hits the sweet spot between rich and comforting, cheesy and savory, creamy yet light. Once you try it, you’ll want to keep this in your regular rotation of weeknight dinners and weekend comfort meals. Let’s dive into why this soup is so special, what ingredients make it shine, and exactly how to make it from scratch.

Prep time: 15 minutes | Cook time: 35 minutes | Total time: 50 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Servings: 6

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What Makes This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Special?

• Rich and Creamy Broth: The combination of heavy cream, chicken stock, and cheddar cheese creates a velvety texture that’s indulgent yet easy to prepare.

• Chewy Gnocchi: Potato gnocchi absorbs flavor while keeping a soft, pillowy bite that makes every spoonful satisfying.

• Crispy Bacon: Bacon adds a smoky crunch and depth of flavor that elevates this soup from ordinary to memorable.

• Quick and Easy Prep: With simple ingredients and a step-by-step method, you can have a comforting soup ready in under an hour.

• Customizable Flavors: Add vegetables like spinach, kale, or mushrooms, or swap cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

This recipe stands out because it combines ease of cooking with a gourmet feel. You don’t need complicated techniques, but the flavors feel like they came from a chef’s kitchen. (Pro tip: use a heavy-bottomed pot to prevent sticking and burning when melting cheese.)

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Ingredient Notes

• Bacon: Provides smoky, savory flavor and crispy texture. Substitutions: turkey bacon or pancetta.

• Potato Gnocchi: Soft and pillowy, perfect for absorbing the broth. Substitutions: homemade gnocchi or small dumplings.

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar adds richness and creaminess. Substitutions: Gruyere, Fontina, or a mild cheddar blend.

• Chicken Stock: Forms the soup base; enhances flavor. Substitutions: vegetable stock or bone broth.

• Heavy Cream: Creates a velvety texture. Substitutions: half-and-half or coconut cream for dairy-free option.

• Onion and Garlic: Aromatics for depth. Substitutions: shallots or garlic powder in a pinch.

• Butter and Flour: Makes a simple roux to thicken the soup. Substitutions: cornstarch slurry.

Special Equipment: Large heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven, wooden spoon, sharp knife, measuring cups and spoons.

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How To Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

1. Cook the Bacon

   • Chop 6 slices of bacon into small pieces and cook over medium heat until crispy, about 6-8 minutes.

   • Remove bacon and drain on paper towels, leaving 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.

2. Sauté Aromatics

   • Add 1 medium diced onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the bacon fat.

   • Cook for 3-4 minutes until translucent and fragrant. (Tip: Stir frequently to prevent burning.)

3. Make the Roux

   • Stir in 2 tablespoons butter until melted, then whisk in 2 tablespoons flour.

   • Cook for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden. This removes the raw flour taste.

4. Add Liquid

   • Slowly whisk in 4 cups chicken stock and 1 cup heavy cream.

   • Bring to a simmer, stirring constantly. Soup should thicken slightly.

5. Cook Gnocchi

   • Add 1 pound of potato gnocchi to the simmering soup.

   • Cook for 3-5 minutes until they float to the top, indicating they are done.

6. Add Cheese and Bacon

   • Lower heat to medium-low and stir in 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese until melted.

   • Return cooked bacon to the pot.

7. Season and Serve

   • Season with salt, pepper, and optional paprika or cayenne for a slight kick.

   • Serve hot with crusty bread.

Tips: Avoid boiling after adding cheese to prevent curdling. Adjust thickness with extra stock or cream as desired.

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Storage Options

• Room Temperature: Not recommended; best consumed immediately.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on stovetop or microwave.

• Freezing: Freeze without cheese for up to 2 months. Add cheese after thawing to retain creamy texture.

• Reheating: Reheat slowly over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk or cream to restore consistency.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetable Boost: Add spinach, kale, or broccoli for extra nutrients.

• Cheese Swap: Try Gruyere, Fontina, or Swiss for different flavor profiles.

• Spicy Kick: Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce for heat.

• Dairy-Free Version: Use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese.

• Protein Twist: Add shredded chicken or turkey sausage for a heartier meal.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prep the soup base and refrigerate up to 24 hours before adding cheese and gnocchi.

2. What if I don’t have gnocchi?
   You can use small pasta like mini shells or tortellini.

3. How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?
   Remove soup from high heat before stirring in cheese, and add it gradually.

4. Can I freeze this soup?
   Freeze without cheese; add cheese when reheating to maintain creaminess.

5. How can I make it lighter?
   Substitute half-and-half for heavy cream and use reduced-fat cheese.

6. Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
   Yes, just add it at the end to avoid overcooking.

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Conclusion

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a perfect blend of creamy, cheesy, and savory flavors that brings comfort to every spoonful. Easy enough for a weeknight meal yet impressive for guests, this soup is versatile and customizable. Grab your favorite pot, some fresh ingredients, and create a bowl of warmth that everyone will love. Don’t forget to share your delicious results and enjoy the cozy satisfaction of homemade comfort food!

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