Hearty Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe for Cozy Comfort

Comfort meets creativity in this hearty bacon cheddar gnocchi soup that promises pure warmth and satisfaction.

Pillowy potato dumplings float alongside crispy bacon bits in a creamy, rich broth that screams indulgence.

Melted cheddar cheese weaves through each spoonful, creating layers of delectable flavor.

The recipe combines rustic Italian traditions with classic American comfort food elements.

Sharp cheese and smoky bacon elevate this soup from simple to spectacular.

Home cooks will adore how quickly this soul-satisfying meal comes together.

You’ll want to savor every single bite of this irresistible culinary masterpiece.

Grab a spoon and let the deliciousness begin!

How To Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

Step 1: Sizzle the Bacon

Grab a large pot and transform chopped bacon into crispy golden delights over medium heat. Once the bacon reaches perfect crunchiness, rescue it with a slotted spoon and park it on a plate. Keep those magical bacon drippings – about two tablespoons will be your flavor secret.

Step 2: Awaken the Aromatics

Toss diced onions into the bacon-infused pot and dance them around until they soften and turn translucent. Quickly introduce minced garlic, letting it release its bold fragrance for just a quick moment.

Step 3: Build the Soup Foundation

Melt butter into the onion mixture, creating a luxurious base. Sprinkle flour and whisk enthusiastically, transforming ingredients into a silky roux. Slowly stream in chicken broth, stirring constantly to prevent any lumpy rebels. Pour in heavy cream and coax the mixture into a gentle simmer.

Step 4: Introduce the Gnocchi

Drop those pillowy potato dumplings into the bubbling soup. Watch them dance and float to the surface, signaling they’re perfectly cooked.

Step 5: Boost the Flavor Profile

• Shredded cheddar cheese
• Salt
• Black pepper
• Smoked paprika
• Crispy bacon pieces
• Baby spinach (optional)

Stir until the cheese melts into smooth, creamy perfection.

Step 6: Serve with Flair

Finish with a sprinkle of fresh parsley and deliver this comforting masterpiece to eager bowls. Warmth and deliciousness await!

Best Tips For Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

• Bacon Brilliance: Reserve some crispy bacon bits for a crunchy topping that adds extra texture and flavor to your soup, giving each spoonful a delightful crunch.
• Gnocchi Goodness: Choose vacuum-sealed or fresh gnocchi for the best texture; frozen can work but might make the soup slightly waterier, so adjust liquid accordingly.
• Cheese Melting Magic: Grate the cheddar cheese yourself for smoother melting and richer flavor compared to pre-shredded cheese, which often contains anti-caking agents.
• Spinach Swap Strategy: Replace baby spinach with kale or Swiss chard for a heartier green that holds up better in hot soup and provides additional nutrients.
• Low-Carb Transformation: Substitute gnocchi with cauliflower florets or zucchini chunks to create a lighter, lower-carbohydrate version of this comforting soup.

How To Store Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Right

• Refrigerate leftover soup in an airtight container within two hours of cooking.
• Cool completely before storing to prevent bacterial growth.
• Properly stored soup will stay fresh for 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
• Gnocchi tends to absorb liquid, so you might need to add extra broth when reheating to restore the original consistency.
• Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 2 months.
• When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat gently on the stovetop.
• Avoid microwaving if possible, as it can make the gnocchi tough and rubbery.
• For best quality, consume frozen soup within 1-2 months.
• Always check for any signs of spoilage before reheating and discard if the soup smells off or shows any unusual changes in texture or color.

Great Matches For Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

• Pair with Rustic Red Wine: Select a medium-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Chianti to complement the rich, smoky bacon and creamy cheese flavors in the soup. The wine's acidity cuts through the heaviness, creating a balanced dining experience.
• Crusty Bread on the Side: Serve with a warm, artisan sourdough or French baguette to soak up the delicious soup base. The bread's crispy exterior and soft interior provide a perfect textural contrast to the creamy gnocchi.
• Fresh Green Salad Companion: Create a light arugula salad with lemon vinaigrette to balance the soup's richness. The peppery greens and tangy dressing will cleanse the palate between bites of the hearty soup.
• Crisp Apple Cider Refresher: Offer a chilled, slightly sweet apple cider as a beverage option. Its fruity notes and light acidity will cut through the soup's creamy texture and complement the bacon's smokiness.

Tasty Twists On Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

• Smoky Mountain Gnocchi: Replace cheddar with smoked gouda and add diced roasted green chiles for a southwestern kick. Garnish with crispy jalapeños for extra heat.
• Harvest Veggie Gnocchi: Swap bacon for pancetta and add roasted butternut squash, kale, and thyme. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a seasonal vegetarian version.
• Mediterranean Herb Gnocchi: Incorporate crumbled feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and fresh basil. Use olive oil instead of bacon grease and sprinkle with za'atar seasoning for a vibrant Mediterranean profile.
• Alpine Mushroom Gnocchi: Add sautéed wild mushrooms like porcini and cremini. Mix in gruyère cheese and a splash of white wine. Finish with fresh thyme and toasted pine nuts for a rich, earthy variation.

Questions About Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

• What makes this gnocchi soup different from traditional soups?

This soup combines crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and soft potato gnocchi for a rich, hearty meal that’s more indulgent than classic vegetable or chicken soups. The combination of cheddar cheese and smoky bacon creates a unique flavor profile that sets it apart.

• Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup base in advance and add the gnocchi just before serving. This helps prevent the gnocchi from becoming too soft or mushy. Store the base in the refrigerator and reheat gently before adding fresh gnocchi.

• Is this soup good for people who want a filling meal?

Absolutely! The bacon provides protein, gnocchi adds carbohydrates, and the creamy base makes this soup incredibly satisfying. It’s perfect for a comforting dinner that will keep you full and warm.

• What type of cheddar cheese works best in this recipe?

Sharp cheddar cheese provides the most robust flavor and melts smoothly into the soup. If you prefer a milder taste, medium cheddar also works well. The key is using freshly shredded cheese for the best melting consistency.

Why Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Tastes So Good

• Whip Up Comfort Quickly: This bacon cheddar gnocchi soup delivers maximum flavor with minimal effort, perfect for busy weeknights when you crave a hearty meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
• Customize with Ease: The recipe offers flexible ingredients like optional spinach and adaptable spice levels, allowing home cooks to personalize the soup to match their taste preferences and dietary needs.
• Pack a Flavor Punch: Combining crispy bacon, creamy cheddar, and soft potato gnocchi creates a rich, indulgent soup that transforms simple ingredients into a restaurant-quality dish bursting with comforting textures and bold taste.
• One-Pot Wonder: Using just a single pot reduces cleanup time and simplifies the cooking process, making this recipe an ideal choice for home chefs who want delicious results without creating a mountain of dishes.

What You Need For Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

• Bacon: Provides rich, smoky flavor and crispy texture for the soup.
• Potato Gnocchi: Soft, pillowy pasta that adds hearty substance to the dish.

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheese that melts smoothly and creates creamy depth.
• Heavy Cream: Adds luxurious richness and velvety consistency to the soup.
• Chicken Broth: Foundational liquid that builds a savory soup base.

• Onion: Provides sweet and subtle base flavor for the soup.
• Garlic: Adds aromatic and intense flavor to the overall dish.
• Butter: Helps create smooth roux and enhances overall richness.
• Flour: Thickens the soup and creates a smooth texture.
• Salt: Enhances and balances all other flavors in the soup.
• Black Pepper: Adds warm, subtle heat and complexity.
• Smoked Paprika: Contributes a subtle smoky undertone.

• Baby Spinach: Light, fresh green that adds nutritional value.
• Fresh Parsley: Bright garnish that provides color and fresh herb note.

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe

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4.7 from 20 reviews

• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: 6 1x

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Description

Creamy bacon cheddar gnocchi soup delivers comfort in a bowl, blending Italian potato dumplings with rich American cheese and smoky bacon. Hearty spoonfuls promise warmth and satisfaction, inviting you to savor each delicious bite.

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Ingredients

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Main Protein and Starch:

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded

Vegetables and Aromatics:

• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups baby spinach (optional, for freshness)
• 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

Liquid and Seasoning Components:

• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream (or half-and-half)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for extra depth)

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Instructions

1. Render the bacon in a spacious pot over medium flame until it transforms into golden, crisp morsels. Extract the bacon pieces using a perforated utensil, reserving approximately two tablespoons of the rich, smoky drippings within the vessel.
2. Introduce diced onions to the residual bacon fat, sautéing until they become translucent and tender. Incorporate minced garlic, allowing its aromatic essence to permeate the mixture for a brief moment.
3. Incorporate butter into the softened aromatics, creating a silky base. Dust the surface with flour, whisking continuously to form a robust roux. Gradually stream in chicken broth, maintaining a smooth consistency while preventing any potential lumps from forming. Introduce heavy cream and coax the liquid to a gentle simmer.
4. Carefully lower the pillowy gnocchi into the simmering liquid, allowing them to dance and float to the surface, indicating their perfect doneness.
5. Integrate shredded cheddar cheese, creating a luxurious, velvety texture. Season with salt, cracked black pepper, and a whisper of smoked paprika. Reintroduce the crispy bacon fragments and fold in delicate baby spinach leaves, allowing them to wilt gracefully.
6. Remove from heat, garnish with freshly chopped parsley, and ladle the steaming soup into waiting bowls, ready to comfort and delight.

Notes

• Choose thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and robust flavor that will elevate the entire soup’s texture and taste profile.
• Drain excess bacon grease carefully, leaving just enough to sauté onions and develop a rich, smoky undertone in the soup base.
• Use store-bought or homemade potato gnocchi; freshly made gnocchi will provide a more tender and delicate texture compared to frozen varieties.
• Opt for sharp cheddar cheese to intensify the cheesy depth and create a more complex flavor landscape in the soup.
• For a lighter version, substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk to reduce calories without sacrificing creamy consistency.
• Add roasted red peppers or sun-dried tomatoes for an unexpected tangy twist that complements the bacon’s smokiness.
• Consider gluten-free flour or cornstarch as a roux alternative for those with wheat sensitivities.
• Swap spinach with kale or Swiss chard for added nutritional boost and slightly different earthy undertones.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Lunch, Dinner
• Method: Simmering
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 6
• Calories: 600
• Sugar: 3 g
• Sodium: 900 mg
• Fat: 40 g
• Saturated Fat: 24 g
• Unsaturated Fat: 12 g
• Trans Fat: 1 g
• Carbohydrates: 45 g
• Fiber: 2 g
• Protein: 18 g
• Cholesterol: 100 mg