Cheddar Bacon Gnocchi Soup: A Comforting Recipe

Cheddar Bacon Gnocchi Soup – just the name conjures up images of a comforting, creamy bowl of deliciousness, perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend lunch. I’ve always loved the satisfying blend of textures and flavors in this soup, and I’m thrilled to share my family’s favorite recipe with you today. It’s a dish that effortlessly blends the hearty satisfaction of a classic potato soup with the unexpected richness of bacon and sharp cheddar cheese, all elevated by the pillowy softness of gnocchi.

While the exact origins of this particular soup are difficult to pinpoint, its components draw from a rich culinary history. Gnocchi, those delightful little potato dumplings, have Italian roots, dating back centuries. The addition of bacon and cheddar, however, lends a distinctly American twist, reflecting our love for bold, savory flavors. This fusion of culinary traditions is what makes Cheddar Bacon Gnocchi Soup so uniquely appealing.

What makes this soup so beloved? It’s the perfect harmony of tastes and textures. The creamy broth, infused with the smoky depth of bacon, provides a comforting base. The sharp bite of cheddar cheese cuts through the richness, adding a delightful tang. And then there are the gnocchi – those little pillows of potato goodness that absorb the flavorful broth, creating a truly unforgettable culinary experience. It’s a dish that’s both incredibly satisfying and surprisingly easy to make, perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions.

So, are you ready to dive into this culinary adventure? Let’s get started on this irresistible Cheddar Bacon Gnocchi Soup recipe!

Ingredients:

• 1 pound gnocchi (potato gnocchi recommended)
• 6 slices bacon, diced
• 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
• 2 cups milk (whole milk recommended for richness)
• 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• ½ cup heavy cream
• 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• ½ teaspoon dried rosemary
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• Salt to taste
• 2 tablespoons butter
• Optional toppings: chopped green onions, extra shredded cheddar cheese, bacon crumbles

Preparing the Bacon and Aromatics:

1. I always start with the bacon! In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the diced bacon over medium heat until crispy. This usually takes about 8-10 minutes. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving about 2 tablespoons of the bacon grease in the pot.
2. Reduce the heat to medium-low. Add the chopped onion to the pot and cook until softened, about 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally. You want the onions to become translucent, not browned.
3. Add the minced garlic to the pot and cook for another minute, until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic; it will become bitter if it burns.

Building the Soup Base:

1. Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook for about 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, to create a roux. This will help thicken the soup.
2. Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. This is a crucial step for a smooth soup. Continue whisking until the mixture is smooth and comes to a simmer.
3. Stir in the milk, thyme, rosemary, and black pepper. Bring the mixture back to a gentle simmer. Reduce the heat to low and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the flavors to meld.

Adding the Cheese and Cream:

1. Reduce the heat to the lowest setting. Slowly stir in the shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time, until it’s completely melted and incorporated into the soup. This prevents the cheese from clumping.
2. Stir in the heavy cream. Don’t boil the soup after adding the cream, as it can curdle. Just gently heat it through.
3. Season the soup with salt to taste. Remember that the bacon and cheese are already salty, so start with a small amount and add more as needed.

Cooking the Gnocchi and Assembling the Soup:

1. Add the gnocchi to the soup. Cook according to package directions, usually about 2-3 minutes, or until they are tender but still hold their shape. Don’t overcook them, or they’ll become mushy.
2. Once the gnocchi are cooked, gently stir in the reserved crispy bacon. This adds a delightful crunch to the soup.
3. Taste the soup one last time and adjust the seasoning if necessary. You might want to add a little more salt, pepper, or even a pinch of nutmeg for a warmer flavor profile.

Serving Suggestions:

1. Ladle the soup into bowls and garnish with your favorite toppings. I love adding chopped green onions for freshness and a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese for extra cheesy goodness. The reserved bacon crumbles also make a fantastic topping.
2. Serve immediately and enjoy this comforting and flavorful Cheddar Bacon Gnocchi Soup! It’s perfect for a chilly evening or a cozy weekend meal.
3. Pro Tip: For an even richer flavor, you can sauté the gnocchi in a little butter before adding them to the soup. This adds a lovely nutty flavor and helps prevent them from sticking together.
4. Pro Tip: If you want a thicker soup, you can whisk in a tablespoon or two of cornstarch slurry (1 tablespoon cornstarch mixed with 2 tablespoons cold water) before adding the gnocchi. Let it simmer for a few minutes to thicken.
5. Pro Tip: Feel free to experiment with different cheeses! A blend of cheddar and Gruyere would be delicious, or you could try a sharp white cheddar for a different flavor profile.

Conclusion:

So there you have it – my incredibly comforting and flavorful Cheddar Bacon Gnocchi Soup recipe! I truly believe this soup is a must-try for several reasons. First, it’s incredibly easy to make. Even on a busy weeknight, you can whip up this deliciousness in under an hour. The combination of creamy, cheesy goodness from the cheddar, the smoky saltiness of the bacon, and the pillowy softness of the gnocchi is simply irresistible. It’s the perfect balance of textures and flavors that will leave you feeling warm and satisfied.

Beyond its ease and deliciousness, this Cheddar Bacon Gnocchi Soup is incredibly versatile. It’s a blank canvas for your culinary creativity! Want to add a little heat? Toss in some chopped jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. Feeling adventurous? Experiment with different types of cheese – Gruyère, Fontina, or even a sharp white cheddar would all be fantastic additions. You could also easily incorporate other vegetables, such as spinach, kale, or roasted butternut squash, to boost the nutritional value and add another layer of flavor.

Serving Suggestions:

This soup is perfect for a cozy night in, but it’s also impressive enough to serve to guests. I love to serve it with a crusty bread for dipping – the perfect way to soak up every last drop of that delicious broth. A side salad with a light vinaigrette would also complement the richness of the soup beautifully. For a truly decadent meal, consider topping each bowl with a dollop of sour cream or crème fraîche and a sprinkle of fresh chives or parsley.

Variations to Explore:

One of my favorite variations is adding roasted chicken or sausage to the soup. The added protein makes it a more substantial meal, perfect for a chilly evening. You could also experiment with different types of gnocchi – potato gnocchi is classic, but sweet potato or even pumpkin gnocchi would add a unique twist. If you’re looking for a lighter option, you can reduce the amount of bacon or even omit it altogether and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. The possibilities are truly endless!

I encourage you to try this recipe and make it your own. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different ingredients and flavors to find your perfect combination. I’d love to hear about your experience! Share your photos and feedback on social media using the hashtag #CheddarBaconGnocchiSoup – I can’t wait to see your culinary creations. This Cheddar Bacon Gnocchi Soup is more than just a recipe; it’s an invitation to create a warm and comforting meal that you’ll want to make again and again.

Remember to adjust seasoning to your preference. Some people like their soup saltier, while others prefer a milder flavor. Taste as you go and adjust accordingly. And most importantly, have fun with it! Cooking should be enjoyable, and this recipe is designed to be just that – a fun and rewarding culinary adventure.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your ingredients and get cooking! I promise you won’t be disappointed with this incredibly satisfying and delicious Cheddar Bacon Gnocchi Soup. Happy cooking!

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September 25, 2025 by Melissa