Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Recipe – Best Comfort Food

Picture this: a steaming bowl of creamy, cheesy soup, loaded with pillowy soft gnocchi and crispy bits of bacon. That’s what this Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup delivers—pure, cozy bliss in every spoonful. Whether it’s a chilly winter evening or just one of those days when you’re craving comfort food, this recipe has all the warmth and flavor you need. It’s indulgent without being over-the-top, and trust me, once you make it, you’ll find yourself coming back for seconds (or thirds).

I first stumbled upon the idea of combining gnocchi with soup when I was experimenting with ways to make a hearty yet quick dinner for my family. I wanted something that felt like a hug in a bowl but didn’t involve hours of prep. Enter this creamy concoction: it’s rich, satisfying, and surprisingly simple to throw together. Plus, the bacon and cheddar combo? Absolutely unbeatable.

If you love soups that feel like they’re giving you a big, warm embrace, this recipe will become your new favorite. So grab a spoon, and let’s dive into the simple, delicious details!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy and Quick: This soup comes together in under 30 minutes, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or last-minute comfort food cravings.
• Comfort Food at Its Best: Creamy, cheesy, and full of flavor—this soup checks all the boxes for cozy, satisfying meals.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love the combination of bacon, cheddar, and gnocchi. Plus, it’s hearty enough to keep everyone full and happy.
• Made with Simple Ingredients: You don’t need fancy groceries for this recipe—it’s all about pantry staples and easy-to-find items.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether you’re serving this at a casual family dinner or impressing guests at a gathering, it’s guaranteed to be a hit.
• Customizable: This recipe is easily adaptable to different preferences—switch up the cheese, add veggies, or make it gluten-free with alternative gnocchi.

Honestly, this recipe isn’t just good—it’s the kind that makes you pause after the first bite and savor every flavor. From the creamy broth to the chewy, tender gnocchi, it’s comfort food elevated without any fuss.

What Ingredients You’ll Need

This Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup relies on simple, wholesome ingredients to deliver bold flavors and a velvety texture. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Bacon: 6-8 slices of thick-cut bacon, diced (adds smoky, salty goodness).
• Gnocchi: 1 package (about 16 oz) potato gnocchi (store-bought works perfectly).
• Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar (for that gooey, cheesy base).
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups (use low-sodium if you prefer).
• Heavy Cream: 1 cup (makes the soup extra creamy and rich).
• Milk: 1 cup whole milk (or substitute with half-and-half for a lighter version).
• Butter: 2 tablespoons unsalted butter.
• All-Purpose Flour: 2 tablespoons (for thickening the broth).
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced (adds depth and aroma).
• Onion: 1 small onion, diced (for a savory flavor boost).
• Seasonings: Salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to taste.
• Optional: Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish.

Most of these ingredients are pantry staples, making this recipe super convenient. Feel free to swap in alternatives for dietary needs or personal preferences!

Equipment Needed

Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delicious soup:

• Large Pot or Dutch Oven: Perfect for cooking the soup evenly and keeping it warm.
• Wooden Spoon or Ladle: Ideal for stirring and serving.
• Chef’s Knife: For chopping bacon, onion, and garlic.
• Cutting Board: To make prep easy and mess-free.
• Whisk: Helps create a smooth, creamy base when combining flour and liquids.

If you don’t have a Dutch oven, a deep stockpot works just fine. And for budget-friendly options, non-stick pots are great for preventing ingredients from sticking during cooking!

Preparation Method

1. Start by cooking the diced bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy, about 5-7 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving the rendered fat in the pot.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pot and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.
3. Stir in the butter and let it melt completely. Sprinkle in the flour, whisking constantly to create a roux. Cook for 1-2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
4. Gradually pour in the chicken broth, whisking continuously to prevent lumps. Follow with the milk and heavy cream, stirring until the mixture is smooth and begins to thicken.
5. Add the gnocchi to the pot and let it simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi is tender and cooked through.
6. Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until the cheese has fully melted into the soup.
7. Season with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika to taste. Adjust seasonings as needed.
8. Top the soup with the crispy bacon and garnish with chopped parsley or green onions, if desired.

Serve hot and enjoy the creamy, cheesy goodness!

Cooking Tips & Techniques

• Crispy Bacon: For extra crispy bacon, pat it dry with paper towels after cooking to remove excess grease.
• Prevent Lumps: Whisk the flour and butter mixture thoroughly to avoid any lumps in your soup base.
• Cheese Tip: Always shred your own cheese instead of using pre-shredded. It melts better and creates a creamier texture.
• Don’t Rush the Simmer: Let the gnocchi cook gently; high heat can make them fall apart.
• Balance the Flavors: Taste and adjust seasoning after adding the cheese, as cheddar can be salty.

By following these tips, you’ll get a soup that’s perfectly creamy, flavorful, and irresistibly delicious!

Variations & Adaptations

• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add mushrooms for a hearty texture.
• Gluten-Free Option: Swap out regular gnocchi for gluten-free gnocchi and use a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.
• Extra Veggies: Stir in spinach, kale, or diced carrots during the simmering stage for added nutrition.
• Spicy Kick: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or red pepper flakes for a touch of heat.

One variation I love is swapping the cheddar for smoked gouda—it adds an incredible smoky depth to the soup!

Serving & Storage Suggestions

Here’s how to serve and store your Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup:

• Serving: Serve hot with crusty bread or garlic toast for dipping. Pair it with a crisp green salad or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
• Storage: Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: This soup is best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to 2 months. Note that the texture may change slightly upon reheating.
• Reheating: Warm the soup gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Add a splash of milk if the consistency feels too thick.

The flavors deepen as the soup sits, so leftovers taste even better the next day!

Nutritional Information & Benefits

This hearty soup not only warms the soul but also offers some nutritional perks:

• Calories: Approximately 450-500 per serving (depends on portion size).
• Protein: Thanks to the bacon, cheddar, and gnocchi, this soup provides a good dose of protein to keep you full.
• Calcium: Cheddar cheese and milk are excellent sources of calcium for healthy bones.
• Comfort Food: While indulgent, this recipe can be balanced with added veggies or lighter dairy options if desired.

As always, check the labels of your ingredients if you’re managing allergies or dietary restrictions.

Conclusion

If you’re in the mood for something warm, creamy, and utterly satisfying, this Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is the answer. It’s easy to make, endlessly adaptable, and perfect for feeding a hungry crowd—or treating yourself to some well-deserved comfort food.

Give it a try, and don’t forget to customize it to your liking! Whether you add extra veggies, swap cheeses, or make it spicier, this soup is a canvas for your culinary creativity. It’s one of my all-time favorites, and I know it’ll be yours too.

If you give this recipe a go, let me know how it turned out in the comments below. I’d love to hear your variations or see your soup creations! Happy cooking!

FAQs

Can I use homemade gnocchi for this recipe?

Absolutely! Homemade gnocchi works beautifully here and adds a personal touch to the dish.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the soup a day in advance. Just store it in the fridge and reheat gently on the stovetop.

What’s the best way to thicken the soup?

The roux made with butter and flour thickens the soup perfectly. If you want it even thicker, stir in a slurry of cornstarch and water.

Can I substitute the cheddar cheese?

Definitely! Try smoked gouda, Monterey Jack, or even Gruyere for a different flavor profile.

Is this soup gluten-free?

To make it gluten-free, use gluten-free gnocchi and a gluten-free flour blend for the roux.

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