Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a delightful dish that brings comfort and warmth to the table. This creamy, rich soup combines the flavors of crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese with tender gnocchi, creating a meal that warms both the heart and the belly. Whether you’re enjoying it on a chilly evening or sharing it with family and friends, each spoonful promises a taste of home.
why make this recipe
Making Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a great choice for many reasons. First, it’s incredibly comforting, making it perfect for cold days or when you want something cozy. The combination of creamy soup, flavorful bacon, and cheesy goodness is hard to resist. Additionally, this recipe is quite simple to prepare, so even if you’re not an experienced cook, you can still impress your family and friends. Gnocchi, the star of this dish, adds a nice texture and makes the soup filling and satisfying. It’s also a versatile recipe that allows for easy customization. You can add more vegetables or adjust the spiciness according to your taste. Plus, it’s a one-pot meal, which means less cleanup afterward. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, comforting leftovers, or even special occasions when you want to treat your loved ones to something tasty.
how to make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
To make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup, start by gathering your ingredients: bacon, gnocchi, chicken broth, garlic, onion, heavy cream, and shredded cheddar cheese. Begin by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Remove the bacon and drain some of the fat, leaving a small amount in the pot for flavor. Then, add chopped onions and minced garlic, sautéing them until they turn soft. Next, add the chicken broth and bring it to a boil. Once boiling, add the gnocchi, allowing it to cook for a few minutes until it floats to the top. Afterward, stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese, mixing well until the cheese melts and the soup becomes creamy. Finally, crumble the cooked bacon back into the pot and mix everything together. Let it simmer for a few more minutes to blend all the flavors.
how to serve Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Serving Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is simple and enjoyable. Ladle the hot soup into bowls and garnish it with extra shredded cheddar cheese and crispy bacon bits on top for added flavor. Fresh herbs like parsley or chives can add a nice pop of color and freshness, enhancing the presentation. This soup pairs wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple salad, making it a complete meal. If you’re hosting a gathering or family dinner, consider serving large bowls so everyone can enjoy a hearty serving. Don’t forget to offer crackers or breadsticks on the side for dipping! Whether for lunch or dinner, this rich and satisfying soup is sure to please everyone at your table.
how to store Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
To store Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup, let it cool down after cooking. Once cooled, transfer the soup into an airtight container and store it in the refrigerator. This soup can be kept for about 3 to 4 days. If you plan to keep it longer, consider freezing it. To freeze, ensure the soup is completely cool, then pour it into a freezer-safe container, leaving some space at the top for expansion. It can be frozen for up to 2 to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy the soup again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat it on the stove over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally. If the soup has thickened, you might want to add a bit of broth or water to reach your desired consistency.
tips to make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Here are some handy tips to make your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup even better. First, choose a good quality cheese for the best flavor; sharp cheddar works wonderfully. You can also experiment with different cheeses like Gruyere or mozzarella for a unique twist. If you like a bit of heat, consider adding a pinch of red pepper flakes when cooking the onions and garlic. For extra nutrition, feel free to toss in some vegetables like spinach, kale, or even carrots. These can enhance both the flavor and health benefits of the soup. Lastly, remember not to overcook the gnocchi; cooking them until they float is the ideal time to stop, ensuring they remain soft and buttery.
variation
Feel free to change up this recipe to suit your taste! You can substitute the bacon for sausage or turkey bacon if you prefer a lighter option. For a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, while adding mushrooms or smoked paprika for depth. Additionally, if you’re looking for a low-carb option, you can swap out the gnocchi with cauliflower gnocchi or make a creamy vegetable soup base without any pasta.
FAQs
1. Can I make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup in advance?
Yes! This soup can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge or freezer. Just reheat it gently when you’re ready to serve.
2. Is Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free gnocchi, the soup can be gluten-free. Always check the labels of your ingredients to ensure they are gluten-free.
3. How can I make this soup spicier?
You can add some red pepper flakes, chopped jalapeños, or a dash of hot sauce to simmer into the soup for some extra heat.
Print
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
A delightful creamy soup that combines crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and tender gnocchi, perfect for cozy evenings.
Ingredients
- 4 slices of bacon
- 1 package (16 oz) gnocchi
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Instructions
- Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove and drain excess fat, leaving a small amount in the pot.
- Add chopped onions and minced garlic to the pot, sauté until soft.
- Add chicken broth and bring to a boil.
- Once boiling, add gnocchi and cook until they float to the top.
- Stir in heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese until melted and creamy.
- Crumble the cooked bacon back into the pot and stir to combine.
- Let it simmer for a few more minutes to blend flavors.
Notes
Feel free to add extra vegetables for nutrition or adjust the spice level to your preference.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Soup
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 42g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 20g
- Cholesterol: 60mg
Keywords: gnocchi soup, bacon soup, creamy soup, comfort food