Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup: Creamy Comfort in a Bowl

Nothing beats a warm, creamy bowl of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup on a chilly evening. Imagine pillowy gnocchi swimming in a rich, cheesy broth, with crispy bacon adding that irresistible crunch. This soup is perfect for busy weeknights because it’s quick to make, yet tastes like it’s been simmering all day. Every spoonful delivers comfort, flavor, and a little indulgence—without needing complicated ingredients or hours in the kitchen.

This soup is not only hearty but also customizable. You can sneak in extra vegetables, swap bacon for sausage, or even make it lighter with low-fat cheese. With only about 40 minutes from start to finish, Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is an easy homemade meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Perfect for meal prep, casual dinners, or cozy weekends, it’s a soup that feels gourmet but is incredibly simple to pull together.

Prep your ingredients, grab a pot, and get ready to enjoy a creamy, cheesy, bacon-filled delight that’s sure to become a family favorite.

Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes | Total Time: 40 minutes
Difficulty: Easy
Yield: 6 servings

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What Makes This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Special?

• Rich, creamy base: The combination of cheddar cheese and cream gives the soup a velvety texture.

• Pillowy gnocchi: Light, soft gnocchi add a unique texture that elevates this soup above ordinary chowders.

• Crispy bacon topping: Bacon adds crunch and smoky flavor, creating a perfect contrast to the creamy soup.

• Quick and easy: Ready in under 45 minutes, making it a weeknight hero.

• Customizable: Easy to add vegetables, swap meats, or adjust the cheese for personal preferences.

This soup isn’t just tasty—it’s cozy, satisfying, and perfect for anyone craving comfort food without the hassle.

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Ingredient Notes

• Gnocchi: Use store-bought potato gnocchi for speed, or homemade for extra flavor. Avoid overcooking—they should be tender but firm.

• Bacon: Thick-cut bacon works best for texture; you can substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter version.

• Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar gives the soup depth. You can mix mild and sharp cheddar if preferred.

• Heavy Cream: Creates the creamy base; substitute with half-and-half for lighter creaminess.

• Chicken Broth: Adds savory flavor; low-sodium is recommended to control saltiness.

• Onions & Garlic: Provide aromatics and flavor foundation.

• Optional Vegetables: Carrots, celery, or spinach can boost nutrition and color.

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How To Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

1. Cook the bacon: In a large pot over medium heat, cook 6 slices of bacon until crispy. Remove bacon and drain on paper towels. Leave 2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot. (Tip: Reserve some bacon for topping.)

2. Sauté aromatics: Add 1 diced onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the bacon fat. Cook 3-4 minutes until softened and fragrant.

3. Build the base: Sprinkle 3 tablespoons of flour over the onions, stirring constantly for 1-2 minutes. Slowly whisk in 4 cups of chicken broth, ensuring no lumps form.

4. Add cream and seasonings: Pour in 1 cup of heavy cream. Stir in salt, pepper, and 1/2 teaspoon paprika. Bring to a gentle simmer.

5. Cook the gnocchi: Add 1 pound of gnocchi. Cook 3-5 minutes until they float and are tender. (Tip: Stir gently to prevent sticking.)

6. Incorporate cheese: Lower heat and gradually stir in 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese until smooth. Taste and adjust seasoning.

7. Finish with bacon: Crumble reserved bacon over the soup. Serve hot with extra cheddar sprinkled on top.

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Storage Options

• Room temperature: Best enjoyed immediately; leave out for no more than 2 hours.

• Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, stirring often.

• Freezing: Not recommended for gnocchi soup as the texture may change. Freeze soup base separately before adding gnocchi.

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Variations and Substitutions

• Vegetarian: Replace bacon with smoked paprika or smoked mushrooms.

• Lower fat: Use half-and-half and turkey bacon.

• Extra veggies: Add carrots, celery, kale, or spinach for a nutrient boost.

• Cheese mix: Blend Gruyere or mozzarella with cheddar for a richer flavor.

• Spicy twist: Add a pinch of cayenne or red pepper flakes.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I make this soup ahead of time?
   Yes, you can prepare the base and store in the fridge for 2 days. Add gnocchi and cheese when reheating.

2. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
   Absolutely! Add a few extra minutes to cooking time.

3. What if I don’t have heavy cream?
   Use half-and-half or milk thickened with a teaspoon of flour.

4. How do I prevent cheese from clumping?
   Add cheese slowly over low heat while stirring constantly.

5. Can I use pre-cooked bacon?
   Yes, but adjust seasoning as pre-cooked bacon can be salty.

6. Is this soup freezer-friendly?
   Freeze the soup base without gnocchi. Add gnocchi fresh when reheating.

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Warm Conclusion

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort meal, combining creamy cheese, tender gnocchi, and smoky bacon in one bowl. It’s simple enough for weeknights yet impressive enough to serve for guests. Try it tonight and enjoy a bowl of cozy, cheesy goodness—you’ll be hooked from the very first spoonful. Don’t forget to share your soup creations with friends and family!

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