Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup 🥓🧀🥣
Warm, creamy, and oh-so comforting — this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate cozy dish you’ll want to make again and again. 🤍 Soft, pillowy gnocchi swim in a rich cheddar cheese broth with crispy bacon, tender veggies, and just the right amount of creaminess. It’s hearty enough for a main course and perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or when you’re craving restaurant-style comfort food at home.
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 6
Ingredients:
For the Soup Base:
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Gnocchi & Cheese:
1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
2½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
Extra bacon crumbles
Shredded cheddar (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the bacon:
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot.
2. Sauté the vegetables:
Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook another minute until fragrant.
3. Build the broth:
Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream until smooth.
4. Add flavor:
Stir in smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup begins to thicken.
5. Cook the gnocchi:
Add the gnocchi directly into the simmering soup. Cook according to package directions (usually 3–4 minutes), or until the gnocchi float to the top.
6. Make it cheesy:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy.
7. Add the bacon back:
Stir most of the crispy bacon into the soup, reserving some for garnish.
8. Serve & enjoy:
Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, extra bacon crumbles, and more cheddar if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips & Variations:
✅ Use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
✅ Add spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrients.
✅ Swap cheddar for smoked gouda or Monterey Jack for a new flavor twist.
✅ Make it ahead — the soup reheats beautifully (add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens).