Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal
If you’re craving something ultra–creamy, cheesy, and packed with cozy flavors, this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is exactly what you need. Made with tender gnocchi, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese all simmered in a velvety broth — it’s the perfect 30-minute comfort meal for chilly nights. One bowl and you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients
-
8–10 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
-
1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
-
1 large onion, diced
-
2 large carrots, peeled & sliced
-
4 cups chicken broth
-
1–2 teaspoons salt (to taste)
-
1 teaspoon black pepper
-
1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 4 cloves fresh garlic, minced)
-
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
-
½–1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional for heat)
-
16 oz gnocchi (regular or gluten-free)
-
2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
-
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp)
Instructions
-
Cook the bacon
Fry bacon until crispy, then chop and set aside. Reserve a bit of bacon grease if you’d like extra flavor. -
Sauté vegetables
In a large pot, heat butter or oil. Add onion and carrot and cook until softened — about 5–7 minutes. -
Simmer the broth
Add chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer. -
Make it creamy
Stir in heavy cream, cheddar cheese, garlic, thyme, pepper, chili flakes, and salt (adjust to taste).
Continue stirring until cheese is melted and smooth. -
Cook the gnocchi
Add gnocchi and cook 2–3 minutes until they float and become tender. -
Finish and serve
Stir in chopped bacon, let the soup thicken slightly, then ladle into bowls.
Garnish with extra bacon, cheddar, and a sprinkle of green onions if desired.
Notes
-
Extra creamy: Add an extra ½ cup cheese or a splash of cream cheese.
-
Veggie boost: Add spinach, kale, or peas in the last 2 minutes of cooking.
-
Smokier flavor: Use smoked bacon or add a pinch of smoked paprika.
-
Meal prep tip: Keep bacon separate until serving to keep it crispy.