This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It features soft gnocchi, crispy bacon, and creamy cheese that makes it super comforting and delicious.
Honestly, who can resist the combo of bacon and cheese? I often find myself going back for seconds (and maybe thirds)! Just top it with some herbs for a pop of color.
What I love most is how easy it is to whip up this soup. Just simmer, stir, and serve! Perfect for chilly nights or when you just need some cozy food.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Crispy bacon is key for adding flavor and texture. If you want a healthier option, turkey bacon or pancetta could work well. Just remember that turkey bacon may not get as crispy, so adjust cooking times accordingly.
Gnocchi: Traditional potato gnocchi is perfect here. If you’re avoiding gluten, look for gluten-free gnocchi made from rice or chickpeas. You can also use pasta like small shells in a pinch!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is my favorite for this soup. It melts beautifully and adds a rich flavor. If you want something different, try Gruyère or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a milder taste.
Heavy cream: For a lighter version, you can use half-and-half or a milk alternative like oat milk. Keep in mind that this may change the creaminess a bit, but it still works.
How Do I Make Sure My Soup Stays Creamy?
To keep your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup nice and creamy, focus on a few key steps:
- Cook the flour with the veggies: This helps create a roux that thickens your soup and prevents separating.
- Add the cream slowly: Just after the broth, let it heat up gently to prevent curdling.
- Low heat for cheese: When you add the cheddar, make sure the soup isn’t boiling. This helps the cheese melt smoothly without clumping.
Following these tips will help you achieve that perfect creamy texture, ensuring you’ll love every spoonful!
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 carrots, diced
- 2 celery stalks, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh chives (for garnish)
Time Needed:
This delicious Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup will take about 10 minutes to prepare and around 20 minutes to cook. So, in roughly 30 minutes, you can have a warm, hearty soup ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. This usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and place it on paper towels to drain. This will keep it crunchy!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
In the same pot with the bacon fat, add 2 tablespoons of butter. Once it’s melted, toss in the chopped onion, diced carrots, and diced celery. Sauté these veggies for about 5-7 minutes until they become soft. You want them to be tender and flavorful!
3. Add Garlic and Thyme:
Next, add the minced garlic and dried thyme to the pot. Cook for another minute, stirring everything together until you can smell that lovely aroma!
4. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed vegetables and stir well. Cook this mixture for about 1-2 minutes to get rid of the raw flour taste and create a roux.
5. Add the Chicken Broth:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth while stirring to prevent lumps. Bring the soup to a simmer and let it cook for a few minutes until it thickens slightly.
6. Mix in the Cream:
Add in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to your liking. Give it a good stir to combine all the flavors.
7. Cook the Gnocchi:
Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook according to the package instructions. This usually takes about 2-3 minutes, just until the gnocchi starts to float and they’re tender.
8. Incorporate the Cheese:
Lower the heat and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring until it melts and combines really well with the soup, making it creamy.
9. Final Adjustments:
Give the soup a taste and adjust the seasoning if needed. You may want a bit more salt or pepper depending on your preference!
10. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, topped with the crispy bacon and a sprinkle of fresh chopped chives for a pop of color. Enjoy your warm, comforting Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup!
It’s perfect for chilly nights or when you just want something cozy and delicious!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is ideal, you can use other cheeses like Gruyère or a mix of mozzarella and cheddar for a milder flavor. Just ensure that the cheese melts well for that creamy texture!
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
To store leftovers, let the soup cool completely and transfer it to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth if it thickens too much.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can also add more veggies or some beans for extra protein while keeping it hearty and delicious!
What If I Don’t Have Gnocchi?
If you don’t have gnocchi on hand, you can substitute it with a small pasta like macaroni, shells, or even ravioli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the package instructions for the pasta you choose!