Why Make This Recipe
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is perfect for those cozy nights when you crave something warm and filling. This dish combines the rich flavors of bacon and cheddar cheese with tender gnocchi, creating a hearty meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s not just comforting; it’s also easy to prepare and uses simple ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen.
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
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
- 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)
- 16 oz gnocchi
- 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp)
Directions
- Cook bacon until crispy, then chop and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat butter or oil and sauté onions and carrots until tender.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Stir in heavy cream, seasonings, and shredded cheese, mixing continuously.
- Add gnocchi and cook for 2 minutes or until soft.
- Stir in bacon, adjust seasoning if needed, and serve hot.
How to Serve Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Serve your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup hot in a bowl. You can garnish it with extra cheddar cheese or chopped green onions for an added touch. This soup pairs well with a side of crusty bread or a fresh salad for a complete meal that everyone will enjoy.
How to Store Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
If you have leftovers, let the soup cool down completely. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. You can also freeze the soup for long-term storage; just remember to leave some space in the container as the soup may expand when frozen.
Tips to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
- For extra flavor, try adding some spinach or kale during the simmering stage.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, blend a small portion of it, then mix it back in.
- Use high-quality cheese for the best flavor. Sharp cheddar gives the soup a more robust taste.
Variation
You can switch up the meat by using cooked sausage instead of bacon. Additionally, for a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
FAQs
1. Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly and saves time.
2. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Absolutely! Just remember that gnocchi may become softer when reheating, so it’s best to add them fresh when you plan to serve the soup.
3. Is it possible to make this soup dairy-free?
Yes, you can use coconut milk and dairy-free cheese to make it dairy-free.
Enjoy making your delicious Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup!
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal
Equipment
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Slotted spoon
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8 slices Bacon diced
- 1 medium Onion chopped
- 3 cloves Garlic minced
- 4 cups Chicken broth
- 2 cups Half-and-half
- 16 ounces Potato gnocchi
- 2 cups Sharp cheddar cheese shredded
- 5 ounces Fresh spinach
- Salt to taste
- Black pepper to taste
Instructions
Instructions
- Cook diced bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven until crispy, then remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.
- Add chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, then stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
- Pour in the chicken broth and half-and-half, bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the potato gnocchi and cook according to package directions, typically 2-3 minutes, until the gnocchi float to the top.
- Reduce heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until completely melted and smooth, then add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted.
- Season the soup with salt and black pepper to taste, then ladle into bowls and top with the reserved crispy bacon before serving.