This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a warm, creamy delight packed with flavor! Soft gnocchi, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese make every spoonful cozy and satisfying.
Let’s face it, who can resist the combination of bacon and cheese? I like to serve it with crusty bread for dipping. You’ll want to enjoy this soup again and again! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: It brings a smoky, savory flavor to the soup. For a healthier option, turkey bacon or chopped pancetta can be great substitutes.
Gnocchi: Potato gnocchi is ideal, but you can swap it with any pasta like small shells or even dumplings if you prefer. Frozen gnocchi works fine too!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives this soup a bold flavor. If you’re avoiding dairy, try a vegan cheese or omit the cheese entirely for a lighter version. You can also use a mix of cheeses like Monterey Jack for a creamier texture.
Half-and-Half: This adds richness, but if you’re looking for lighter options, use milk or a non-dairy milk like almond or oat milk. Just keep in mind it may impact the creaminess.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Creamy Texture?
Getting that smooth and creamy texture in your soup is key! Here are some steps to help you achieve it:
- Start by cooking the flour with onions and garlic for a few minutes. This helps to cook off the raw flavor and adds body to your soup.
- When adding chicken broth, whisk slowly to avoid lumps. A sturdy whisk works wonders here!
- As you add cream, keep the heat low. This prevents the dairy from separating and ensures a nice, uniform consistency.
- Add the cheese gradually, letting it melt completely before adding more. This way, you avoid clumps!
With these tips, your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup will be smooth and delicious every time!
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnishing:
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook, giving you a total time of approximately 30 minutes from start to finish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or cozy weekend meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and set them aside on a paper towel-lined plate. Make sure to leave about 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot; this adds awesome flavor to the soup!
2. Sauté Onion and Garlic:
Add the diced onion to the pot with the leftover bacon fat. Sauté over medium heat until the onion becomes translucent, which usually takes about 5 minutes. Then add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant and delicious.
3. Make a Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture, stirring well to combine. Cook for 2–3 minutes to remove the raw flour taste. This will help thicken your soup!
4. Add Broth:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for about 5 minutes, or until it thickens slightly.
5. Stir in Cream:
Now, add the half-and-half or heavy cream while continuously stirring and then bring it back to a gentle simmer.
6. Season the Soup:
Add in the dried thyme, smoked paprika (if you’re using it), along with salt and pepper to taste. These seasonings add some wonderful depth to the flavor!
7. Cook the Gnocchi:
Add the potato gnocchi to the soup, cooking according to the package instructions. Typically, they will be ready when they float to the top, usually taking about 2–3 minutes.
8. Add the Cheese:
Reduce the heat and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts and the soup becomes silky smooth.
9. Taste and Adjust:
Give your soup a taste and adjust the seasoning as needed. More salt, pepper, or even a pinch of spice can elevate it even further!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your soup hot, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon, extra cheese, chopped fresh parsley, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a little kick, if desired!
Enjoy this hearty, creamy soup that’s packed with cheesy gnocchi and savory bacon for a perfect comforting meal!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is a classic choice, you can use other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Gruyère, or even a mix of cheeses to create a different flavor profile. Just make sure they melt well!
What If I Don’t Have Half-and-Half?
No problem! You can substitute half-and-half with whole milk or heavy cream for a lighter option. Just keep in mind that using only milk will result in a less creamy texture.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! To make the soup vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add extra vegetables like spinach or mushrooms for more flavor and nutrition.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm it gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or water to loosen it up if needed. Keep in mind, the gnocchi may absorb some liquid, so you might need to adjust accordingly!