Creamy Bacon and Cheddar Gnocchi Soup: The Ultimate Comforting Delight 🥣🧀🥓
1. Introduction
Welcome to a cozy corner of your kitchen where the magic of bacon cheddar gnocchi soup comes to life. This creamy cheesy comforting soup combines tender potato gnocchi with crispy bacon, rich cheddar cheese, and a savory broth that warms you from the inside out. Whether you’re craving a hearty dinner or a satisfying lunch, this bacon potato gnocchi recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite. Read on to discover how easy it is to create this luscious soup at home!
2. Ingredients for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 6 slices of bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup heavy cream or half-and-half
- 1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh chives or parsley for garnish
3. Step-by-Step Directions for Making Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Preparing the Bacon
Start by cooking your chopped bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels to drain. Leave the bacon fat in the pot for extra flavor.
Sautéing the Vegetables
Add diced onion to the bacon fat and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
Building the Soup Base
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a simmer and add the butter, stirring until melted.
Cooking the Gnocchi
Add the potato gnocchi directly into the simmering broth. Cook according to package instructions, typically about 2-3 minutes until they float to the surface.
Adding Cream and Cheddar Cheese
Reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar until smooth and melted. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Incorporating Bacon and Finishing Touches
Return the cooked bacon to the soup and stir well. Garnish with chopped chives or parsley for a fresh flavor boost.
4. Tips for Making the Best Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
- Use fresh, quality cheddar for a rich flavor.
- If you prefer a gluten-free option, opt for gluten-free gnocchi and broth.
- For extra creaminess, add a splash of milk or cream just before serving.
- Adjust the salt and pepper according to your taste preference.
5. Storage and Reheating Tips
This cheesy comforting soup stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm gently on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, add a bit of broth or milk to loosen it.
6. Serving Suggestions for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Serve this hearty soup with warm garlic bread rolls or a crisp side salad for a complete meal. Garnish with extra cheese or a drizzle of olive oil for an extra touch of indulgence.
7. Frequently Asked Questions About Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Can I make this soup vegetarian?
Absolutely! Substitute the bacon with smoked paprika or crispy mushrooms for a smoky flavor. Use vegetable broth to keep it vegetarian.
How long does it take to prepare?
The entire process takes approximately 30 minutes—from prepping ingredients to serving the delicious soup.
Can I freeze leftovers?
While gnocchi can become a bit soft upon freezing, this soup can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months. Reheat gently and add a splash of broth or cream to maintain creaminess.
8. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for crispy bacon without the mess, reducing fat and making cleanup easy.
- T-fal 14-Piece Nonstick Cookware Set: Ensures your pots and pans are durable and easy to clean, making this soup recipe even more effortless.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer: For quick bacon prep and other ingredients with great convenience.
- KitchenAid Artisan Stand Mixer: Ideal for preparing homemade gnocchi or mixing cheese sauces.
9. Conclusion
This bacon cheddar gnocchi soup offers a delightful combination of creamy textures, savory bacon, and melted cheese that makes every spoonful comforting and satisfying. It’s perfect for chilly evenings or when you need a hearty meal that’s both easy to make and irresistibly delicious. Gather your ingredients, stock your kitchen with essential tools, and enjoy this bacon potato gnocchi recipe that’s sure to impress family and friends alike!
Print
Creamy Bacon and Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
A rich and indulgent soup featuring soft gnocchi, crispy bacon, and melted cheddar cheese in a creamy broth, perfect for warming up your day
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4-6 servings
Ingredients
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 large onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons butter
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- In a large pot, cook bacon until crisp. Remove and set aside.
- In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic in bacon grease until softened.
- Add butter and cook until melted, then pour in chicken broth and milk bringing to a simmer.
- Add gnocchi and cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
- Stir in cheddar cheese until melted, then season with salt and pepper.
- Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon and parsley.
Notes
For a thicker soup, add a splash of heavy cream or blend a portion of the soup. Feel free to add vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Comfort
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 430 kcal Kcal
- Sugar: 6 g
- Sodium: 920 mg
- Fat: 25 g
- Saturated Fat: 12 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 10 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 35 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 18 g
- Cholesterol: 75 mg