The scent of sizzling bacon wafts through the kitchen, immediately drawing you in. There’s something magical about the combination of crispy bacon and gooey cheddar cheese, especially when melded into a steaming bowl of Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s a cozy embrace on chilly evenings, perfect for family gatherings or simply a quiet night in. Best of all, you can whip it up in just 38 minutes, allowing you to savor the comfort food you crave without the lengthy prep. Plus, with its customizable ingredients, you can adapt this soup to fit any dietary preference—whether you want to add vibrant vegetables or opt for a healthier twist. What secret ingredient will you choose to make it your own?
Why Is This Recipe So Special?
Comfort Food Bliss: There’s nothing like a bowl of warm, hearty soup to mend your soul on a chilly day.
Quick and Easy: Ready in just 38 minutes, this recipe suits even the busiest of schedules without sacrificing flavor or comfort.
Customizable Creations: Feel free to get creative! Swap bacon for turkey bacon, try different cheeses, or add seasonal veggies like spinach for an extra nutrient boost.
Crowd-Pleasing Flavor: This creamy concoction delights anyone at the table, perfect for family dinners or gatherings with friends.
Texture Harmony: Dive into a velvety soup, complemented by tender gnocchi and crispy bacon in every rich spoonful, creating a harmony of textures that satisfies!
If you love a variety of comforting soups, check out our Cheese Steak Soup or Parmesan Italian Soup for more delicious options!
Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Ingredients
• This soup is not only comforting but also allows for easy substitutions and variations!
For the Soup Base
- 8-10 slices Bacon – Use thick-cut bacon for the best crispiness and flavor.
- 1 Tablespoon Butter or Olive Oil – Both add a rich depth when sautéing vegetables.
- 1 large Onion (diced) – Sweetens the soup base beautifully.
- 2 large Carrots (peeled and sliced) – Adds a lovely sweetness and hearty texture.
- 4 cups Chicken Broth – Opt for low-sodium to control the saltiness of your soup.
- 1 to 2 teaspoons Salt – Adjust according to your taste and the salt level of the broth.
- 1 teaspoon Pepper – Freshly ground is ideal for a flavorful kick.
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (or 4 cloves minced garlic) – Adds an extra layer of savory depth.
- 1/4 teaspoon Dried Thyme – Introduces an aromatic earthiness to the mix.
- 1/2 to 1 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes – Add for a touch of heat, adjusting to your preference.
For The Creamy Finish
- 16 ounces Gnocchi – Either fresh or frozen will work perfectly in this soup.
- 2 cups Heavy Cream or Half-n-Half – Use heavy cream for richness or half-n-half for a lighter option.
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (grated) – Sharp cheddar delivers robust flavor that enhances the soup.
Feel free to get creative with these ingredients as you prepare your Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup!
Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Step 1: Cook Bacon
In a large pot over medium heat, add 8-10 slices of thick-cut bacon. Cook until the bacon is crispy, about 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally for even cooking. Once done, transfer the crispy bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to cool, leaving the rendered fat in the pot for the next step.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
In the same pot, turn the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil. Once melted, toss in 1 diced onion and 2 sliced carrots, sautéing for about 10-15 minutes. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
Step 3: Add Chicken Broth
Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, increasing the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir the pot to combine all the flavors, and allow it to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, releasing the savory aroma throughout your kitchen.
Step 4: Incorporate Cream and Spices
Reduce the heat to medium-low, and stir in 2 cups of heavy cream or half-n-half, along with 1 to 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes based on your heat preference. Let this simmer gently for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors beautifully.
Step 5: Melt Cheese
Gradually add in 2 cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the soup reaches a silky, creamy texture, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from clumping.
Step 6: Add Gnocchi and Bacon
Gently fold in 16 ounces of fresh or frozen gnocchi into the soup and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This helps the gnocchi become tender and soak up the rich flavors. Finally, stir in the chopped bacon and taste the soup, adjusting the seasonings as necessary before serving warm.
Storage Tips for Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Make sure it’s completely cooled before sealing to maintain freshness.
Freezer: This soup freezes well for up to 2 months. To freeze, let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers, leaving space for expansion.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, thaw overnight in the fridge. Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.
Avoid Clumping: Stir well while reheating to ensure the cheese doesn’t clump. Enjoy every warm and comforting spoonful of your Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup!
Variations & Substitutions for Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Feel free to sprinkle in your personal touch and make this dish truly yours with these delightful swaps and additions!
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Turkey Bacon: Replace traditional bacon with turkey bacon for a lighter, yet still flavorful, option. You won’t lose that savory goodness!
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Cheese Variation: Try mozzarella or a blend of creamy cheeses for a unique flavor twist. Cheeses like gouda or pepper jack can create delightful surprises!
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Vegetable Boost: Toss in fresh spinach, peas, or bell peppers for extra nutrition and color. Adding vibrant veggies thoughtfully boosts both health and flavor.
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Spicy Kick: Want more heat? Incorporate diced jalapeños or additional chili flakes to amp up the spice level according to your taste.
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Plant-Based: Omit bacon entirely for a vegetarian version or use plant-based bacon for the crispy texture. You’ll still enjoy a cozy bowl of goodness!
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Creaminess Swap: Opt for cashew cream or coconut milk for a dairy-free version while maintaining the lush texture. This swap keeps the soup rich without any dairy!
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Add More Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley or basil can invigorate the soup with freshness. Add them right before serving for a bright finish.
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Pasta Substitute: Swap gnocchi for small pasta shapes like orzo or ditalini, which can give a delightful change in texture while still being satisfying!
If you’re eager to explore more comforting combinations, check out our delicious White Cheddar Apple Chicken Chili or try something unique like our Cheddar Sweet Corn Pie! Enjoy the journey of customization!
Expert Tips for Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
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Bacon Choice: Use thick-cut bacon for extra crunch and flavor, or swap with turkey bacon for a leaner option without sacrificing taste.
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Cheese Melting: Ensure that your cheddar cheese is added gradually and fully melted to avoid any clumping, achieving a silky texture in your soup.
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Adjusting Consistency: If the soup is too thick upon reheating leftovers, add a splash of chicken broth or cream to restore its creamy consistency.
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Vegetable Boost: Don’t hesitate to add extra veggies like spinach or peas for nutrition; just toss them in during the sauté step for perfect tenderness.
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Personalize Spices: Experiment with spices—if you like it spicy, increase the red chili flakes. For a milder version, use just a pinch!
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Make Ahead: This Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup can be prepped in advance and stored. Just reheat slowly to enjoy any night of the week!
What to Serve with Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Transform your comforting bowl of soup into a full meal with these delightful sides and pairings.
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Garlic Bread: Perfectly crispy and buttery, garlic bread adds a satisfying crunch to every spoonful of your creamy soup.
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Caesar Salad: The crisp romaine and tangy dressing complement the richness of the gnocchi soup, adding freshness to your meal.
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Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies brings vibrant colors and textures, balancing the warmth of the soup with every bite.
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Cheesy Grilled Cheese: Slice into melty goodness with gooey cheese between buttery bread—a classic pairing that’s sure to warm your heart.
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Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted to perfection, the crunchiness and subtle bitterness of Brussels sprouts contrast beautifully with the creamy soup.
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Wine Pairing: A chilled Chardonnay harmonizes with the richness of the cheese, enhancing the flavors without overpowering the dish.
Each of these suggestions contributes a unique flavor or texture, making your meal even more delightful! Enjoy your culinary adventure alongside the delicious Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup.
Make Ahead Options
These Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can cook the bacon and sauté the vegetables up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can prepare the broth and creamy base (excluding the cheese and gnocchi) up to 3 days ahead. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup gently in a pot on medium heat, add the grated cheese, gnocchi, and chopped bacon, and continue cooking until heated through. This way, you can enjoy the same comforting taste without the hassle, making it perfect for busy weeknights without sacrificing quality!
Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe FAQs
What type of bacon is best for this recipe?
Absolutely! I recommend using thick-cut bacon for the best crispy texture and rich flavor. This type of bacon stands up well to the creaminess of the soup. If you prefer a leaner option, turkey bacon can be used as a substitute without sacrificing too much taste.
How should I store leftovers?
Store any leftover Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Make sure it has completely cooled before sealing to help maintain its freshness.
Can I freeze this soup?
Very much so! This soup freezes beautifully for up to 2 months. To do this, let the soup cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe containers, leaving some space for expansion. When you’re ready to enjoy it, thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.
What if my soup turns out too thick?
If you find your soup is too thick when reheating, it’s an easy fix! Simply add a splash of chicken broth or cream while stirring over medium heat until it reaches your desired consistency. This keeps it smooth and enjoyable.
Are there any dietary considerations?
Definitely! You can customize the Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup to cater to various dietary preferences. If you need a vegetarian option, omit the bacon or substitute it with turkey bacon. Also, feel free to swap the cream for a lighter alternative to cut calories and enhance nutrition with extra vegetables like spinach or peas!
What should I do if my cheese clumps while melting?
No worries! To avoid clumping, always add cheese gradually and stir continuously as it melts. If it does happen, simply whisk it well while reheating the soup on low heat until it smooths out again. Enjoy the comforting flavors!
Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup That Warms the Soul
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a large pot over medium heat, add 8-10 slices of thick-cut bacon. Cook until the bacon is crispy, about 8-10 minutes, flipping occasionally for even cooking. Once done, transfer the crispy bacon to a paper towel-lined plate to cool, leaving the rendered fat in the pot for the next step.
- In the same pot, turn the heat to medium and add 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil. Once melted, toss in 1 diced onion and 2 sliced carrots, sautéing for about 10-15 minutes. Cook until the vegetables are tender and the onion is translucent, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking.
- Pour in 4 cups of low-sodium chicken broth, increasing the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a simmer. Stir the pot to combine all the flavors, and allow it to simmer gently for about 5 minutes, releasing the savory aroma throughout your kitchen.
- Reduce the heat to medium-low, and stir in 2 cups of heavy cream or half-n-half, along with 1 to 2 teaspoons of salt, 1 teaspoon of pepper, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of dried thyme, and 1/2 to 1 teaspoon of red chili flakes based on your heat preference. Let this simmer gently for another 5 minutes to meld the flavors beautifully.
- Gradually add in 2 cups of grated sharp cheddar cheese to the pot. Stir continuously until the cheese melts completely and the soup reaches a silky, creamy texture, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Avoid high heat to prevent the cheese from clumping.
- Gently fold in 16 ounces of fresh or frozen gnocchi into the soup and cook for an additional 2 minutes. This helps the gnocchi become tender and soak up the rich flavors. Finally, stir in the chopped bacon and taste the soup, adjusting the seasonings as necessary before serving warm.
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