Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

If you’re looking for a cozy dish that warms your heart and fills your belly, this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is just what you need! It’s creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor—perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings. I love how this recipe brings everyone together around the table, making it a favorite for both kids and adults alike. Plus, it comes together in under 40 minutes, so you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal without spending all day in the kitchen.

This soup isn’t just quick; it’s also incredibly satisfying. The combination of tender gnocchi, rich cheddar cheese, and smoky bacon creates a delightful harmony of flavors that will have you coming back for seconds (and maybe even thirds). Trust me, once you try this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup, it will become a go-to recipe in your home!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: In just about 38 minutes, you can whip up this hearty dish—perfect for those busy nights!
• Family-friendly: Everyone loves the creamy texture and cheesy goodness, making it a hit with both kids and adults.
• Comforting flavors: The combination of bacon and cheddar makes every bite feel like a warm hug.
• Make-ahead friendly: You can easily prepare this soup in advance and reheat it when you’re ready to serve.
• Customizable: With a few simple swaps, you can make this soup fit your taste preferences perfectly!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple and wholesome ingredients to make our Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup. You might already have most of these in your pantry!

For the Soup Base

• 8-10 slices Bacon
• 1 Tablespoon Butter or Olive Oil
• 1 large Onion (diced)
• 2 large Carrots (peeled and sliced)
• 4 cups Chicken Broth
• 1-2 teaspoons Salt
• 1 teaspoon Pepper
• 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (or 4 cloves minced garlic)
• 1/4 teaspoon Dried Thyme
• 1/2-1 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes

For the Creamy Finish

• 16 ounces Gnocchi
• 2 cups Heavy Cream or Half-n-Half
• 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (grated)

Variations

This recipe is flexible, allowing you to personalize it based on what you have on hand or your taste preferences. Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Try using turkey bacon or chicken for a lighter option that still packs flavor.
• Add veggies: Toss in some spinach or kale at the end for an extra boost of nutrients and color!
• Change the cheese: Experiment with different cheeses like gouda or pepper jack for a unique twist.
• Make it spicy: Add more red chili flakes or diced jalapeños if you love some heat in your soup.

How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. This not only adds flavor but also creates that delicious smoky base we love. Once cooked, remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels while keeping the drippings in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables

In the same pot with the bacon drippings, add butter or olive oil if needed. Then toss in diced onion and sliced carrots. Sauté them until they’re soft and fragrant—this step is crucial as it builds layers of flavor that make our soup irresistible.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

Pour in chicken broth along with salt, pepper, garlic powder (or minced garlic), thyme, and red chili flakes. Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing to simmer. This allows all those wonderful flavors to meld together beautifully.

Step 4: Add Gnocchi

Once your broth is simmering nicely, add gnocchi into the pot. Cook according to package instructions until they float to the top—this usually takes just a few minutes! It’s always exciting when they start bobbing around!

Step 5: Stir in Cream and Cheese

Now, for the pièce de résistance! Lower the heat and slowly stir in heavy cream (or half-n-half) and grated cheddar cheese until melted and creamy. This is where that rich texture comes from! Taste and adjust seasoning if necessary.

Step 6: Finish Up

Finally, crumble cooked bacon back into the soup. Give everything one last stir before serving. Ladle that deliciousness into bowls and watch everyone dig in with delight!

Enjoy making this comforting Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup—it’s sure to become a beloved recipe at your table too!

Pro Tips for Making Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

Making this delicious Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is not only easy, but with a few pro tips, you can elevate your cooking experience!

• Use High-Quality Ingredients: Selecting fresh, high-quality cheese and broth can significantly enhance the flavor of your soup, making it more satisfying and delicious.
• Adjust the Spice Level: If you enjoy a little heat, feel free to increase the amount of red chili flakes. On the other hand, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can omit them altogether.
• Cook Gnocchi Separately: For an even better texture, consider cooking the gnocchi in a separate pot before adding them to the soup. This method prevents them from becoming too soft and mushy.
• Add Veggies: Feel free to sneak in extra veggies like spinach or peas at the end of cooking. They add color and nutrition without altering the soup’s creamy texture.
• Leftover Storage Tips: If you have leftovers, store the soup and gnocchi separately. This helps maintain the texture of the gnocchi when reheating!

How to Serve Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

Presenting your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup beautifully can make a simple meal feel special! Here are some ideas to serve this comforting dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley or chives sprinkle on top add a burst of color and freshness that brightens up each bowl.
• Croutons: Crunchy croutons provide a delightful contrast to the creamy soup and bring an added layer of flavor.
• Extra Cheese: A sprinkle of extra grated cheddar on top just before serving can make it look indulgent and inviting.

Side Dishes

• Garlic Bread: Warm, toasted garlic bread is perfect for dipping into the creamy soup and adds a delightful crunch.
• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances out the richness of the soup while adding freshness.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini or bell peppers complement the flavors in the soup while adding color and texture.
• Cheesy Biscuits: Soft, cheesy biscuits are wonderful for soaking up every last drop of your delicious soup – a comforting addition to any meal!

Enjoy crafting this scrumptious Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup for your family or guests; it’s sure to warm hearts and bellies alike!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is not only delicious but also makes for an excellent meal prep option! You can easily prepare it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the soup to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Portion the soup into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave some space at the top of each container, as the soup will expand when frozen.
• Seal tightly and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best flavor, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen soup overnight in the refrigerator.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can add a splash of chicken broth or cream if it seems too thick during reheating.

FAQs

Here are some questions you might have about this delightful recipe.

Can I make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup without bacon?

Yes! You can use turkey bacon or even a plant-based bacon alternative for a lighter version while still enjoying great flavor.

How do I store leftovers of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, consider freezing them!

What can I substitute for heavy cream?

If you prefer a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or a dairy-free cream substitute like coconut cream to maintain that creamy texture.

Can I add vegetables to my Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! Feel free to add your favorite veggies like spinach, peas, or bell peppers for added nutrition and flavor.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is perfect for meal prep. It stores well and tastes even better after the flavors meld together in the fridge!

Final Thoughts

I hope this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup brings warmth and comfort to your table! It’s such a special dish that combines creamy goodness with hearty gnocchi, making it perfect for family dinners or cozy nights in. Enjoy making this recipe and feel free to share your experience. Happy cooking!