Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting dish loaded with pillowy gnocchi, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese. It’s everything you want in a cozy soup—hearty, cheesy, and full of savory flavor with minimal prep and maximum satisfaction.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This soup takes all the best parts of comfort food—bacon, cheese, and tender gnocchi—and brings them together in one delicious pot. It’s the perfect blend of smoky, creamy, and satisfying textures that make it a hit with both kids and adults. Plus, it’s ready in under an hour, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

• Bacon, chopped
• Onion, diced
• Garlic, minced
• Chicken broth
• Heavy cream
• Gnocchi (shelf-stable or refrigerated)
• Sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• Carrots, diced
• Celery, diced
• Butter
• All-purpose flour
• Salt and black pepper
• Fresh thyme or parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving a bit of the bacon fat.
2. Add butter to the pot along with diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté until vegetables are soft, about 5–7 minutes.
3. Stir in garlic and cook for another 1–2 minutes.
4. Sprinkle flour over the vegetables and stir to create a roux. Cook for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste.
5. Slowly pour in chicken broth, whisking constantly to prevent lumps. Bring to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes until slightly thickened.
6. Stir in heavy cream, then add gnocchi and let cook for about 5–7 minutes, or until gnocchi are tender and floating.
7. Reduce heat to low and stir in shredded cheddar until melted and creamy.
8. Return bacon to the pot, season with salt and pepper to taste.
9. Serve hot, garnished with fresh thyme or parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

Serves 4–6
Prep time: 10 minutes
Cook time: 30 minutes
Total time: 40 minutes

Variations

• Spicy Twist: Add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chopped jalapeños.
• Vegetarian Version: Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add extra veggies like mushrooms or spinach.
• Extra Cheesy: Mix in mozzarella or gouda along with the cheddar for deeper flavor.
• Low-Carb: Replace gnocchi with cauliflower florets for a lighter version.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat on the stovetop over medium-low heat, stirring frequently. Add a splash of broth or cream if the soup thickens too much.
Freezing is possible, but the texture of the gnocchi may soften after thawing. For best results, freeze the soup before adding the gnocchi and add them fresh when reheating.

FAQs

Can I use homemade gnocchi?

Yes! Homemade gnocchi will work beautifully. Just add it toward the end and watch closely—it cooks quickly.

Can I make this soup gluten-free?

Use gluten-free gnocchi and replace the flour with a gluten-free thickener like cornstarch.

What’s the best cheese for this soup?

Sharp cheddar melts smoothly and adds bold flavor, but you can mix in others like Monterey Jack or smoked cheddar.

Can I use milk instead of cream?

Yes, but the soup will be thinner. Whole milk or half-and-half is a better alternative to keep some creaminess.

Do I need to peel the carrots?

Peeling is optional. Just scrub them clean if you prefer to leave the skin on.

How do I prevent the cheese from clumping?

Remove the soup from heat before adding cheese, and stir it in gradually for a smoother consistency.

Can I cook this in a slow cooker?

Yes, cook bacon separately and add it at the end. Cook vegetables, broth, and gnocchi on low for 4–5 hours, then stir in cream and cheese before serving.

Is this soup freezer-friendly?

It can be frozen, but the texture of the gnocchi may change. For best results, freeze the soup without gnocchi.

Can I add chicken?

Absolutely! Shredded rotisserie chicken or diced cooked chicken makes a great addition.

What can I serve with this soup?

Crusty bread, a side salad, or garlic knots pair perfectly with this rich and creamy soup.

Conclusion

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with hearty flavor in every bite. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner yet satisfying enough for special occasions. Whether you’re warming up on a cold day or just craving something indulgent, this soup is sure to hit the spot.

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