This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is warm and cozy! It combines fluffy gnocchi with crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and creamy goodness to create a delightfully hearty bowl of comfort.
On chilly days, this soup is my go-to. I love how the bacon adds a nice crunch and the cheese makes every spoonful feel special. It’s like a big hug in a bowl! 🥣
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: The crispy bacon adds a wonderful crunch. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon works well too! You can also skip the meat for a vegetarian version and use smoked paprika to mimic that smokiness.
Gnocchi: I love using store-bought gnocchi for ease. If you have time, homemade gnocchi can be fun to make! As a substitute, you could use small pasta shapes like orzo or mini tortellini if gnocchi isn’t available.
Cheddar Cheese: The sharp cheddar gives this soup its signature flavor. If you’re not a fan of sharp cheese, feel free to use mild cheddar or a blend of your favorite cheeses like mozzarella or Monterey Jack.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter option, half-and-half or whole milk can be used. Keep in mind that it may not be as rich, but it will still add creaminess!
How Can I Get the Perfect Flavor in My Soup?
The key to a flavorful Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup starts with properly sautéing the onions and garlic in the bacon fat. This adds depth to the base of your soup. Here are some tips:
- Cook bacon until crispy, then remove it to prevent burnt bits from altering your soup.
- Sauté onions until translucent, but don’t rush. Taking your time enhances their sweetness.
- Add minced garlic just before the broth—overcooked garlic can become bitter!
By following these steps, you’ll build a delicious foundation for your soup that works wonderfully with the other ingredients!
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This soup is quick and easy! You’ll need about 10 minutes to prep your ingredients and another 15 minutes to cook everything. In just 25 minutes, you’ll have a delicious, creamy soup ready to enjoy.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s crispy. This will take about 5-7 minutes. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon from the pot and set it aside on a plate lined with paper towels. Make sure to reserve about 1-2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot for later cooking.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Add the finely diced onion to the pot with the reserved bacon fat. Sauté the onion over medium heat for about 3-4 minutes until it becomes translucent and soft. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds until it’s fragrant.
3. Add Broth and Gnocchi:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions or until they float to the surface, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
4. Make it Creamy:
Once the gnocchi is cooked, reduce the heat to low. Stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar cheese, Italian seasoning, and smoked paprika. Keep stirring until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy and well combined.
5. Season and Serve:
Season your soup with salt and black pepper to taste. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the crispy bacon pieces and a sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley for a lovely touch. Serve hot and enjoy the comforting flavors!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi for This Soup?
Yes, you can! If using frozen gnocchi, there’s no need to thaw them first. Just add them directly to the boiling broth, and they will cook through as directed in the recipe. Just check the cooking time since frozen gnocchi might take a minute longer.
What Can I Substitute for Heavy Cream?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or whole milk. Keep in mind that the soup may not be as rich and creamy, but it will still taste delicious!
How Long Do Leftovers Last?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, do so gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. You can add smoked paprika to mimic the smokiness that bacon provides!