This creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! With delightful soft gnocchi, crispy bacon, and tasty cheddar, it’s super comforting and filling.
Nothing beats a cozy soup on a chilly day. When I make this, my family can’t resist second helpings—who could say no to cheesy goodness? 🥓🍲
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Bacon adds amazing flavor and crunch. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon works too, although it’s less crispy. For a vegetarian version, you could use smoked paprika to give that smoky taste without the meat.
Gnocchi: Traditional potato gnocchi brings a nice softness but if you can’t find it, look for shelf-stable gnocchi or even other pasta types like tortellini. You could also use cauliflower gnocchi for a lighter twist!
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives a rich flavor, but you can mix it up! Try using a combo of white cheddar and a mild cheese like Monterey Jack. If you’re dairy-free, look for plant-based cheeses that melt well.
Heavy Cream: This adds creaminess, but you can swap it for half-and-half or milk for a lighter version. Coconut milk also works for a dairy-free option, giving a slight sweetness.
How Do I Get My Gnocchi Just Right?
Cooking gnocchi perfectly is key to a great soup. Follow these steps for a deliciously soft texture:
- Boil water in a large pot and add a pinch of salt.
- Gently drop in the gnocchi. They’re done when they float to the surface—this usually takes 2-3 minutes.
- Watch carefully and don’t overcook them; they can become mushy!
For added flavor, you can sauté the cooked gnocchi in a bit of butter before adding them to the soup. It gives a lovely golden touch!
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups fresh spinach leaves
- 1 teaspoon dried basil
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional for a little heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup will take about 15 minutes to prepare and 10-15 minutes to cook. You’ll have a warm, comforting soup on your table in about 30 minutes!
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 and golden. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pot and place it on paper towels to drain, leaving the bacon fat in the pot for flavor.
2. Sauté the Onion:
Add the diced onion into the same pot with the bacon fat. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes, or until the onion becomes soft and translucent. This adds a nice sweetness to the soup.
3. Add Garlic:
Stir the minced garlic into the pot and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. Be careful not to burn it!
4. Bring in the Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. This will create the base for your soup.
5. Cook the Gnocchi:
Once boiling, add the potato gnocchi. Cook according to the package instructions, usually around 2-3 minutes or until they float to the top. Floating means they’re ready!
6. Creamy Cheesy Base:
Lower the heat to medium-low, and stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, dried basil, oregano, and crushed red pepper flakes. Mix continuously until the cheese is melted and the soup is nice and creamy.
7. Add Spinach:
Next, add the fresh spinach and cook just until wilted, which should take about 1-2 minutes. It will turn a pretty green color!
8. Season to Taste:
Season your soup with salt and black pepper to bring out all the flavors. Give it a good stir!
9. Serve and Garnish:
Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with the crispy bacon pieces you set aside earlier and some chopped parsley for freshness.
10. Enjoy!
Serve immediately with your favorite crusty bread or a salad on the side. Enjoy every comforting spoonful!
This rich, flavorful soup packed with crispy bacon, cheesy cheddar, tender gnocchi, and fresh spinach is sure to become a favorite!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi in This Recipe?
Absolutely! If you’re using frozen gnocchi, there’s no need to thaw them beforehand. Simply add them directly to the boiling broth; they may take an extra minute or two to cook compared to fresh gnocchi.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you want a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or whole milk instead of heavy cream. For a dairy-free alternative, try coconut milk or a nut-based cream which will still provide creaminess!
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or microwave, stirring occasionally. If the soup thickens, add a splash of broth or water to loosen it up.
Can I Add Other Vegetables to This Soup?
Definitely! Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots, bell peppers, or even kale. Just sauté them along with the onion at the beginning or cook them in the broth until tender, depending on their cooking time.
