Name: Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: American
Ingredients: 8-10 slices bacon, cooked and chopped; 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil; 1 large onion, diced; 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced; 4 cups chicken broth; 1-2 teaspoons salt; 1 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 4 cloves minced garlic); ¼ teaspoon dried thyme; ½-1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional); 16 oz gnocchi; 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half; 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp)

Why Make This Recipe

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food for chilly days. Rich and creamy, it combines the heartiness of gnocchi with the smoky flavor of bacon and the richness of cheddar cheese. This soup is not only satisfying but also easy to make, making it perfect for a weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

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How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

Ingredients

8-10 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
1 large onion, diced
2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
4 cups chicken broth
1-2 teaspoons salt
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 4 cloves minced garlic)
¼ teaspoon dried thyme
½-1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
16 oz gnocchi
2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp)

Directions

Cook bacon in a pan until crispy. Chop it into small pieces and set aside.
In a large pot, heat the butter or oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced carrots, and sauté until they are tender.
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer.
Stir in the heavy cream, seasonings, and shredded cheese. Mix continuously until the cheese melts and the soup is creamy.
Add the gnocchi and cook for about 2 minutes, or until the gnocchi are soft.
Stir in the chopped bacon, adjust seasoning as needed, and serve hot.

How to Serve Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

Serve this delicious soup warm, topped with some extra shredded cheddar cheese and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if you like. Pair it with garlic bread or a simple green salad for a complete meal.

How to Store Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

Let the soup cool down to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. You can store it in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat, adding a bit of broth or cream if it has thickened too much.

Tips to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

For a thicker soup, you can blend a portion of the soup and return it to the pot.
Feel free to customize the vegetables. Spinach, kale, or potatoes can be great additions.
If you prefer, you can use turkey bacon for a lighter option.

Variation

You can try adding different types of cheese like gouda or Monterey Jack for a unique flavor. Additionally, swapping the chicken broth with vegetable broth can make this soup vegetarian.

FAQs

Can I freeze Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup?
- It is not recommended to freeze this soup as the gnocchi may become mushy after thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh or stored in the fridge.
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
- Yes, store-bought gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe. Just follow the package instructions for cooking.
Is there a substitute for heavy cream?
- You can use half-and-half or a non-dairy cream alternative if you prefer a lighter version.

Enjoy making and sharing this comforting Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup with friends and family!