Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

Introduction to Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

When the weather turns crisp, there’s nothing more satisfying than a warm bowl of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup. This indulgent dish brings together pillowy gnocchi, crispy bacon, and sharp cheddar cheese in a creamy, hearty broth that’s as comforting as your favorite blanket.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a soup enthusiast looking for new inspiration, this recipe delivers the perfect balance of flavor, texture, and nostalgia. It’s no wonder this dish has become a cold-weather favorite in kitchens everywhere.If you love creamy soups, try this potato-based one too.

What is Gnocchi? A Soft, Soul-Warming Pasta

Gnocchi (pronounced nyoh-kee) are Italian-style dumplings made primarily from mashed potatoes and flour, though some versions include egg or ricotta. Their soft, chewy texture makes them a perfect addition to soups and stews, where they absorb surrounding flavors like little sponges of deliciousness.

If you’re new to working with gnocchi or wondering what makes them special, check out this guide on what gnocchi is and how it’s used in cooking.

Why Bacon and Cheddar Make the Perfect Soup Pair

There’s a reason bacon and cheddar show up together so often: their flavors were made for each other.

• Bacon adds a rich, smoky, salty punch
• Cheddar cheese brings in creamy tanginess and depth
• Together, they create a base that’s irresistible in a cream-based soup

For a truly indulgent texture and taste, we use sharp cheddar, but you can adjust to your preference.

Want to make sure your bacon turns out perfectly crisp every time? Learn the best ways to cook bacon here.

🛒 Ingredients Breakdown for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

Making Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup from scratch is surprisingly easy when you have the right ingredients on hand. Each element in this recipe contributes to the soup’s rich flavor, creamy texture, and hearty satisfaction. Below is a detailed explanation of the main ingredients and why they matter.

🧄 Aromatics & Base

• 1 large onion (diced)
  Adds depth and sweetness to the soup’s base. Yellow or sweet onions are best for their mellow flavor, but you can also use white or red depending on preference.
• 2 large carrots (peeled and diced)
  Bring natural sweetness and a pop of color. Carrots help balance the richness of the cheddar cheese and bacon.
• 4 cups chicken broth
  Forms the flavorful foundation of the soup. Use low-sodium chicken broth so you can better control the salt level. For a vegetarian option, swap with vegetable broth.
• 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
  Used to sauté the veggies. Butter adds richness, while olive oil offers a lighter touch.

🥓 Protein & Flavor Boost

• 8–10 slices thick-cut bacon
  The hero of this soup. Thick-cut bacon gives you meaty texture and bold, smoky flavor. After crisping, crumble it for mixing in and topping.

🧀 Dairy & Creaminess

• 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
  This gives the soup its silky, luscious texture. Use heavy cream for the richest version, or half-and-half for a lighter—but still creamy—base.
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  Essential for the soup’s signature cheesy goodness. Sharp cheddar is recommended for its bold flavor. Shred your own cheese to avoid anti-caking agents, which can cause clumping when melted.

🍝 The Star Carb

• 16 ounces gnocchi
  Soft, chewy, and oh-so satisfying. Gnocchi acts like mini dumplings, soaking up all the flavor from the broth. Use shelf-stable, frozen, or fresh gnocchi depending on availability.

🧂 Seasoning & Spice

• Salt and black pepper – adjust to taste
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 4 cloves minced garlic
• 1/4 teaspoon dried thyme – adds a subtle earthy note
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes – optional, for gentle heat

🍳 Step-by-Step: How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

Ready to turn simple ingredients into a bowl of creamy, cheesy comfort? Here’s a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you make the perfect Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup from scratch — all in under 45 minutes!

🔪 Step 1: Prep All Ingredients

Before cooking, prep the following:

• Dice 1 large onion and 2 large carrots
• Shred 2 cups of sharp cheddar cheese (avoid pre-shredded for smoother melting)
• Chop thick-cut bacon into bite-sized pieces if pan-frying
• Measure out all seasonings: garlic, thyme, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper

Having everything prepped makes the cooking process quicker and more enjoyable.

🥓 Step 2: Cook the Bacon

There are two great ways to cook crispy bacon:

• Oven method (recommended):
  Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil, place bacon slices evenly, and bake for 20–25 minutes until crispy. Drain on paper towels.
• Skillet method:
  Fry bacon in a skillet over medium heat until golden and crisp. Remove and set aside, reserving a tablespoon of bacon fat if desired.

🧅 Step 3: Sauté Aromatics

• In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of butter or olive oil (or reserved bacon fat)
• Add diced onions and carrots
• Sauté over medium heat for 8–10 minutes until soft and fragrant
• Season lightly with salt and pepper to layer in flavor

🥣 Step 4: Add Broth, Cream & Spices

• Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer
• Stir in heavy cream or half-and-half
• Add garlic powder or fresh garlic, dried thyme, and red pepper flakes (if using)
• Simmer for 5–7 minutes to let flavors develop — do not boil after adding cream

🧀 Step 5: Melt in Cheese Gradually

• Reduce heat to low
• Slowly add shredded cheddar cheese, a handful at a time
• Stir constantly to prevent clumping and ensure a smooth, creamy consistency

🍝 Step 6: Add Gnocchi & Bacon

• Stir in gnocchi and let cook for 2–3 minutes until they float and soften
• Fold in most of the cooked bacon, reserving a bit for garnish

🌿 Step 7: Serve & Garnish

• Ladle soup into bowls
• Top with green onions, extra cheddar, and remaining crispy bacon
• Serve immediately while hot and creamy!

Enjoy your delicious, restaurant-quality Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup!

🔁 Variations & Customization Ideas for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

One of the best things about Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is how easily it can be adapted to suit different tastes, dietary needs, and pantry ingredients. Whether you’re looking to lighten it up, make it vegetarian, or add more flavor layers, the options are endless.

Here are some creative ways to make this soup your own:

🧀 Cheese Swaps

• Replace cheddar cheese with Monterey Jack or pepper jack for a spicier kick
• Add a handful of parmesan cheese for nutty depth
• Use white cheddar for a slightly milder yet creamy profile

🥓 Protein Alternatives

• Swap bacon with pancetta for a more refined, Italian-inspired twist
• Use smoked sausage or ham for a heartier version
• Try turkey bacon for a lower-fat alternative
• For a vegetarian option, use plant-based bacon or skip it entirely and boost spices instead

🌱 Add-Ins for Nutrition & Texture

• Stir in baby spinach, kale, or Swiss chard during the last few minutes of cooking
• Add mushrooms or zucchini for extra umami and body
• Throw in frozen peas or corn for a pop of sweetness and color

🥣 Broth & Cream Variations

• Substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth to make it meat-free
• Use a 1:1 mix of heavy cream and milk to reduce richness
• Add a splash of white wine when sautéing onions for added acidity and complexity

🍝 Gnocchi Choices

• Use cauliflower gnocchi for a gluten-free or low-carb option
• Try sweet potato gnocchi for a slightly sweet, earthy twist
• Make your own homemade gnocchi for a rustic, made-from-scratch feel

🧊 Storage & Reheating Tips

• Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days
• Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, stirring often
• Add a splash of cream or broth if it thickens too much
• Freezing is not recommended due to gnocchi’s texture change after thawing

Print

🧀 Nutrition Facts of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup (Per Serving Approx.)

• Calories: ~550–600
• Carbs: ~38g
• Protein: ~20g
• Fat: ~37g
• Sodium: ~1700mg

Want to know more about the cheese you’re consuming? This article on cheddar cheese nutrition breaks it down in detail.

🍞 What to Serve with Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

This soup is a meal on its own, but you can elevate it with:

• Crusty garlic bread or homemade French bread
• Simple side salad with vinaigrette
• Glass of dry white wine or sparkling apple cider
• Pumpkin Gnocchi

FAQs About Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup❓

Can I use frozen gnocchi?

Yes! Just add it directly to the simmering soup. It may take an extra minute or two to cook.

What cheese works best in this soup?

Sharp cheddar is the classic go-to, but white cheddar, gouda, or parmesan can offer unique flavor twists.

How do I thicken gnocchi soup?

Let it simmer uncovered for a few extra minutes, or stir in a slurry of cornstarch and broth.

Is gnocchi pasta or potato?

Gnocchi is traditionally made from potato and flour, so it’s more like a dumpling than a typical pasta.

Can I make this soup ahead of time?

Absolutely. Just add the gnocchi when reheating so they don’t get too soft.

What can I use instead of bacon?

Pancetta, smoked sausage, or vegetarian bacon strips are all excellent alternatives.

What is Gnocchi?

🥄 Final Thoughts: A Cozy Bowl You’ll Crave Again and Again

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is everything a great homemade soup should be: hearty, creamy, cheesy, and soul-soothing. It’s a go-to recipe for busy weeknights, lazy Sundays, or anytime you want a meal that hits every comfort note.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner, meal-prepping for the week, or just want something that warms you from the inside out, this dish is a surefire crowd-pleaser.