Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal

Name: Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8-10 slices bacon, cooked and chopped; 1 tbsp butter or olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced; 4 cups chicken broth; 16 oz gnocchi; 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Published: August 31, 2025

by Ezra

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This soup can be prepared in only 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
Rich and Flavorful: The combination of crispy bacon and creamy cheddar creates an irresistible taste experience.
Versatile Meal: Enjoy this soup as a hearty main course or a delightful appetizer at any gathering.
Comforting Warmth: Perfect for cold weather, this soup provides warmth and satisfaction with every spoonful.
Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this creamy, cheesy delight.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential. Below are the key tools you’ll need to prepare the Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Large pot
Cooking spoon
Measuring cups
Cutting board
Knife

Importance of Each Tool

Large pot: Ideal for preparing soups; it allows you to combine all ingredients without spilling.
Cooking spoon: Essential for stirring ingredients evenly, ensuring flavors meld together perfectly.
Measuring cups: Help maintain accuracy in ingredient amounts for a consistent taste every time.

Ingredients

For the Soup Base

8-10 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
1 tbsp butter or olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 large carrots, peeled and sliced

For the Broth

4 cups chicken broth
1-2 tsp salt
1 tsp black pepper
1 tsp garlic powder (or 4 cloves minced garlic)
¼ tsp dried thyme
½-1 tsp red chili flakes (optional)

For the Creaminess

16 oz gnocchi
2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp)

How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

Cook bacon until crispy, then chop and set aside. This adds a savory base flavor to your soup.

Step 2: Sauté Vegetables

In a large pot, heat butter or oil over medium heat. Add diced onions and sliced carrots. Sauté until the vegetables are tender.

Step 3: Prepare the Broth

Add chicken broth to the pot. Bring it to a simmer while stirring occasionally.

Step 4: Create Creamy Mixture

Stir in heavy cream along with seasonings such as salt, pepper, garlic powder, thyme, and optional red chili flakes. Continuously stir while adding shredded cheddar cheese until it melts completely into the broth.

Step 5: Add Gnocchi

Add gnocchi to the simmering broth. Cook for about 2 minutes or until tender.

Step 6: Final Touches

Stir in the chopped bacon, adjusting seasoning as necessary. Serve hot for an incredibly satisfying meal.

This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal is sure to become a favorite in your household! Enjoy!

How to Serve Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal

Serving your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup can elevate the dining experience, making it even more enjoyable. Here are some creative ways to serve this rich and creamy comfort meal that will impress your family and friends.

Pair with Homemade Bread

Crusty French Baguette: A warm, crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the soup.
Garlic Bread: The buttery, garlicky flavor complements the richness of the soup beautifully.

Garnish Options

Fresh Herbs: Sprinkle chopped parsley or chives on top for a fresh touch.
Extra Cheese: Add a handful of shredded cheddar on top right before serving for extra cheesiness.

Side Salads

Caesar Salad: A classic Caesar salad balances the richness of the soup.
Mixed Greens Salad: Tossed greens with a light vinaigrette provide a refreshing contrast.

Beverage Pairings

White Wine: A chilled glass of Chardonnay enhances the flavors of the gnocchi soup.
Craft Beer: A light lager or pale ale pairs well with the savory notes in the dish.

How to Perfect Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal

To achieve the best version of your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup, consider these helpful tips. Following these suggestions can ensure a delicious outcome every time.

Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh vegetables and quality bacon contribute significantly to flavor.
Adjust Seasoning: Tailor the salt, pepper, and spices according to your taste preferences.
Don’t Overcook Gnocchi: Cook gnocchi just until they float; they will continue to soften in the soup.
Stir Continuously When Adding Cheese: This prevents clumping and ensures a smooth, creamy texture.
Let It Rest Before Serving: Allowing the soup to sit for a few minutes enhances its flavors.
Store Properly: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days.

Best Side Dishes for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal

Complementing your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup with side dishes can create a satisfying meal. Here are some excellent options that enhance this rich and creamy comfort meal.

Garlic Parmesan Knots: Soft dough knots tossed in garlic butter and parmesan add flavor and texture.
Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a refreshing bite.
Roasted Brussels Sprouts: Crispy roasted Brussels sprouts provide a tasty contrast to the creamy soup.
Coleslaw: Crunchy coleslaw adds a nice crunch and tanginess that pairs well with richness.
Stuffed Mushrooms: Savory stuffed mushrooms packed with cheese and herbs make for delightful finger food.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with spices are perfect for dipping into your soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Making Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup can be simple, but there are common mistakes that can ruin the dish. Here are some pitfalls to avoid.

Skipping the bacon crisping: Not cooking the bacon until crispy can lead to a chewy texture. Make sure to cook it thoroughly for the best flavor.
Using low-fat dairy: Opting for low-fat cream instead of heavy cream can result in a less creamy soup. Use heavy cream or half-and-half for a rich and satisfying meal.
Overcooking the gnocchi: Cooking gnocchi too long will make it mushy. Follow package instructions and add it to the soup just before serving.
Neglecting seasoning adjustments: Forgetting to taste and adjust seasonings can leave your soup bland. Always sample before serving and tweak as needed.
Skipping fresh ingredients: Using stale or old vegetables can dull the flavors. Fresh onions and carrots enhance the overall taste of your soup.

Refrigerator Storage

Store Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup in an airtight container.
It can last in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal

Allow the soup to cool completely before freezing.
Use freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving space for expansion.
It is best consumed within 2-3 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat in an oven-safe dish until warm, stirring occasionally.
Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat on medium power, stirring every minute until hot.
Stovetop: Pour into a saucepan over low heat, stirring frequently until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about making Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup.

What makes Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup so special?

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is special because it combines crispy bacon with rich cheddar cheese and tender gnocchi in a creamy broth, creating a comforting dish perfect for any occasion.

Can I customize my Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like spinach or peas or substitute different cheeses to suit your taste preferences.

How do I make this soup vegetarian-friendly?

To make a vegetarian version of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup, omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth while keeping all other ingredients the same.

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi directly without thawing. Just add them to your soup during the cooking process according to package instructions.

Final Thoughts

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a delightful blend of flavors that warms you from the inside out. Its creamy texture and cheesy goodness make it an ideal comfort meal for cold nights. Experiment with different veggies or spices to tailor it to your liking!

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