There’s something utterly magical about a steaming bowl of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup. Imagine creamy, cheesy goodness wrapped around soft, pillowy gnocchi, all intertwined with crispy bits of bacon that add a savory crunch. The aroma wafts through the air, luring everyone from their cozy corners like a siren call to your kitchen. You can almost hear the chorus of “What’s for dinner?” before they even cross the threshold.

This delightful soup is perfect for those chilly evenings when all you want is comfort in a bowl. Whether it’s a casual Tuesday or a festive gathering, this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup will have everyone singing your culinary praises. Trust me, once you taste it, you’ll be dreaming about it long after the last spoonful has been savored.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for weeknight dinners.
- The rich flavors combined with creamy textures create an unforgettable experience.
- Its vibrant colors and delicious aromas make it an eye-catching centerpiece at any table.
- Plus, it’s versatile enough to adapt to your taste preferences or pantry staples!
I still remember the first time I made this soup for my friends; their faces lit up like kids on Christmas morning as they took their first bites.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Bacon: Use thick-cut bacon for that crispy texture and rich flavor that enhances the soup.
Gnocchi: Fresh or store-bought gnocchi works well; choose based on convenience and preference.
Cheddar Cheese: Opt for sharp cheddar to achieve that bold flavor that makes each bite irresistible.
Heavy Cream: This adds the luxurious creaminess; don’t skimp on quality for the best results.
Chicken Broth: Use low-sodium chicken broth so you can control the saltiness of your soup.
Onion and Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic add aromatic depth; sauté until fragrant and golden.
Spinach: Fresh spinach adds color and nutrients; toss in right before serving for a vibrant touch.
Seasonings: Salt, pepper, and optional herbs like thyme enhance flavors beautifully; adjust according to your taste preferences.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Cook the Bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with slotted spoon and let drain on paper towels while leaving the grease in the pot.
Sauté Aromatics: Add diced onion to the pot with bacon grease, cooking until translucent and fragrant. Toss in minced garlic and sauté for another minute until golden brown.
Add Broth and Gnocchi: Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float to the top—this typically takes about 2-3 minutes.
Create Creamy Base: Lower heat slightly before adding heavy cream gradually while stirring constantly. Ensure everything combines smoothly without curdling.
Incorporate Spinach and Cheese: Stir fresh spinach into the bubbling soup until wilted, then fold in shredded cheddar cheese until melted into gooey perfection.
Serve with Toppings!: Ladle soup into bowls, topping with crispy bacon bits and extra cheese if desired. Grab some crusty bread to soak up every last drop!
Now that you have your bowl of warmth ready, gather your loved ones around! Enjoy every comforting bite of this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup while sharing stories—and maybe even a few laughs—because nothing brings people together quite like good food!
You Must Know
- This delectable Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup combines rich flavors, creamy textures, and an aroma that beckons your family to the table.
- The simplicity of this dish allows for a delightful cooking experience, making it perfect for a cozy night in.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by frying the bacon until crispy, then sauté onions and garlic before adding broth and gnocchi. This sequence builds incredible flavor layers, ensuring your soup shines.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the cheddar for Gruyère or add veggies like spinach for extra color and nutrition. Customize the soup to reflect your unique taste!
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat to keep that creamy texture intact.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Use fresh gnocchi for optimal texture; frozen can become mushy when cooked.
- Don’t rush the browning of your bacon; it’s where much of the flavor comes from.
- A splash of lemon juice at the end brightens all those savory flavors beautifully!
Sharing this recipe brings back memories of my friend trying to impress her date with homemade soup. Spoiler alert: they ended up eating straight from the pot!
FAQ
Can I use frozen gnocchi for this recipe?
Yes, but fresh gnocchi will yield a better texture and flavor.
What if I’m not a fan of bacon?
You can substitute with turkey bacon or skip it for a vegetarian version.
How can I make this soup spicier?
Add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for a kick!
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a delightful comfort food that combines creamy, cheesy flavors with soft gnocchi and crispy bacon. Perfect for chilly evenings, this soup is quick to prepare and will have everyone asking for seconds. Each spoonful offers a rich blend of textures and tastes, making it an ideal dish for both casual weeknight dinners and festive gatherings.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 6 people 1x
- Category: Soup
- Method: Cooking
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 6 oz thick-cut bacon
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 (16 oz) package gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 2 cups fresh spinach
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and drain on paper towels, leaving the grease in the pot.
- Sauté the diced onion in the bacon grease until translucent. Add garlic and cook for another minute.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Stir in the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions until they float (about 2-3 minutes).
- Lower the heat and gradually add heavy cream while stirring constantly.
- Mix in fresh spinach until wilted, then fold in shredded cheddar cheese until melted.
- Serve hot, garnished with crispy bacon bits and extra cheese if desired.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 300g)
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 850mg
- Fat: 37g
- Saturated Fat: 20g
- Unsaturated Fat: 15g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 40g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 22g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: For added flavor, consider using Gruyère cheese instead of cheddar or include additional veggies like carrots or bell peppers. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days; reheat gently on low heat.