This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a warm and cozy dish that’s packed with flavor! Soft gnocchi, crispy bacon, and creamy cheddar come together to create a comforting bowl of goodness.
I mean, who can resist a soup that’s full of cheese and bacon? I love serving it with some crusty bread for dipping—perfect for chilly days or any day you need a hug in a bowl!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Bacon adds a salty, smoky flavor to the soup. I love using thick-cut bacon for its richness. If you prefer a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too!
Gnocchi: Potato gnocchi brings a light and fluffy texture. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with small pasta like ditalini or even use homemade gnocchi if you’re feeling adventurous.
Cheddar cheese: Sharp cheddar gives that rich flavor. For a twist, try using Gruyère or a mix of cheeses for added depth. If you’re dairy-free, there are non-dairy cheese alternatives available.
Heavy cream: This makes the soup extra creamy. If you want a lighter version, you could use half-and-half or even whole milk. Just know it may not be as rich as using heavy cream.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup is Creamy and Smooth?
To achieve a creamy texture, it’s important to incorporate the flour properly. When you sprinkle the flour on the vegetables, be sure to cook it for a bit. This helps remove the raw taste and allows it to blend smoothly in the broth.
- Whisk in the chicken broth gradually to prevent lumps. Stir constantly as you pour it in!
- Add the cream and cheese at low heat after cooking the gnocchi. This helps prevent them from curdling.
Taking your time during these steps will give you that luscious, velvety soup experience!
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 slices bacon, diced
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious soup will take about 10 minutes to prepare and about 20 minutes to cook, for a total of around 30 minutes. It’s quick and perfect for a weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and set it aside. Make sure to leave the lovely bacon fat in the pot; it adds so much flavor!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the diced onion and carrots to the pot with the bacon fat. Sauté these for about 5-7 minutes, or until the onion is translucent and the carrots have started to soften.
3. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute. You want that garlic to get nice and fragrant, which will enhance the soup’s flavor.
4. Make a Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables, stirring to coat them. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes. This step helps eliminate the raw taste of the flour and gives the soup a nice texture.
5. Add Broth and Thyme:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring constantly to avoid lumps. After it’s all combined, add the dried thyme and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer.
6. Cook the Gnocchi:
Add the gnocchi to the simmering pot and cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-4 minutes, until they float to the top. This means they’re ready!
7. Stir in Cream and Cheese:
Reduce the heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring gently until everything is melted and creamy.
8. Season and Combine:
Return half of the crispy bacon to the soup and stir to combine everything well. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
9. Serve and Garnish:
Carefully ladle the soup into bowls, and garnish each serving with the remaining bacon and a sprinkle of fresh parsley for a pop of color and flavor.
Enjoy your creamy, flavorful Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup—perfect for a comforting meal any day!
Can I Use Turkey Bacon Instead of Regular Bacon?
Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great lower-fat option. Just cook it until it’s crispy, similar to regular bacon, for that smoky flavor in your soup.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter option, you can use half-and-half or whole milk. For a dairy-free alternative, coconut cream or cashew cream work well, though they may slightly alter the flavor.
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally to maintain the creamy texture.
Can I Freez This Soup?
Yes, but keep in mind that the texture may change after freezing. To freeze, allow the soup to cool completely, then transfer it to a freezer-safe container. It’s best to consume it within 2-3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating.
