Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a warm and comforting bowl full of soft gnocchi, crispy bacon bits, and rich, melty cheddar cheese. It’s a hearty soup that combines creamy broth with the satisfying taste of bacon and cheese, making it perfect for chilly days or anytime you need a cozy meal.
I love how the gnocchi adds a nice pillow-like texture that feels special without being complicated to make. The bacon brings a smoky crunch that balances the creaminess of the cheese perfectly. Whenever I make this soup, my family always asks for seconds, and it never lasts long at the table.
My favorite way to enjoy this soup is with a slice of crusty bread on the side for dipping. It’s also great topped with a little extra cheddar or even some green onions if you want a fresh kick. This soup feels like a warm hug in a bowl, and I’m always happy to serve it when I want everyone to feel cozy and satisfied.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Bacon gives the soup its smoky, salty crunch. If you want a lighter option, try turkey bacon or smoked sausage. For a vegetarian version, smoked paprika or liquid smoke can add a similar depth.
Gnocchi: Potato gnocchi brings a soft, tender bite to the soup. You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own for a fresher taste. If you don’t have gnocchi, small pasta like mini shells or tortellini also works.
Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar melts beautifully and adds bold flavor. If you prefer milder cheese, mild cheddar or gouda are good alternatives. Avoid pre-shredded cheese if possible, as it melts better when freshly grated.
Half-and-Half or Heavy Cream: These make the soup creamy and rich. For a lighter version, use milk and stir in a small amount of cream cheese or Greek yogurt at the end to keep creaminess without too much fat.
How Do You Make the Soup Thick and Creamy Without Lumps?
Thickening the soup smoothly is key. The flour roux helps with this. Here’s how:
- After cooking onions and garlic, sprinkle flour evenly over the pan.
- Stir continuously for 1-2 minutes to cook out raw flour taste and form a paste (roux).
- Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly to avoid lumps.
- Bring to a simmer and let it thicken before adding cream and gnocchi.
Whisking well as you add liquid keeps the soup silky and thick without any flour clumps.
Equipment You’ll Need
- Large pot or Dutch oven – perfect for cooking bacon, sautéing veggies, and simmering the soup all in one vessel.
- Wooden spoon or heatproof spatula – for stirring the roux and soup without scratching your pot.
- Whisk – helps you smoothly mix the flour into the broth without lumps.
- Measuring cups and spoons – to get your ingredients just right.
- Ladle – makes serving your creamy soup easy and mess-free.
Flavor Variations & Add-Ins
- Swap bacon for diced ham or cooked sausage for a different meaty flavor.
- Add a handful of chopped spinach or kale near the end for a fresh green boost.
- Use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar if you want a little spicy kick.
- Stir in sautéed mushrooms for extra earthiness and texture.
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1/2 cup yellow onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
- 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 1/2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tbsp fresh chives, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and 20 minutes to cook, making a total of around 30 minutes. It’s perfect for a quick, cozy meal any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Take the bacon out with a slotted spoon and put it on paper towels to drain. Leave about 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot and pour out the rest.
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Add the diced onion to the bacon fat and cook over medium heat until the onions are soft and clear, about 4-5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until you smell the garlic.
3. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic. Keep stirring for 1-2 minutes so the flour cooks and combines well, helping the soup get creamy without lumps.
4. Add Liquids:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, making sure it’s smooth with no lumps. Let it simmer gently for about 5 minutes until it thickens a bit. Then stir in the half-and-half or cream and bring the soup back to a gentle simmer.
5. Cook the Gnocchi:
Drop the gnocchi into the soup. Cook following the package instructions—usually 2-3 minutes—or until the gnocchi float to the top.
6. Melt the Cheese and Season:
Turn the heat down to low and mix in the shredded cheddar cheese until it melts smoothly. Add smoked paprika if you like, then season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your taste.
7. Finish and Serve:
Stir most of the crispy bacon into the soup, saving a little to sprinkle on top. Scoop the soup into bowls, garnish with the reserved bacon, extra shredded cheddar, and fresh chives. Serve warm with crusty bread or a side salad for a truly comforting meal.
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi in This Soup?
Yes! Just make sure to thaw the gnocchi before adding it to the soup. You can thaw them in the fridge overnight or run the gnocchi under cold water briefly. This helps prevent clumping and ensures even cooking.
Can I Make This Soup Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the soup up to step 8, then cool and refrigerate it for up to 2 days. When ready, gently reheat on the stove, stirring occasionally, and add the gnocchi fresh so it doesn’t get too soft.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop over low heat to keep the cheese creamy and smooth. If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or milk while reheating.
What Can I Serve with Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup?
This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread for dipping or a simple green salad to keep the meal balanced and fresh. Garlic bread or a side of roasted vegetables also make great accompaniments.
