PERFECT BACON CHEDDAR GNOCCHI SOUP

Imagine twirling a fork through pillowy gnocchi, each bite bursting with smoky bacon and sharp cheddar in a creamy, comforting broth – that’s exactly what awaits you with this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup. This isn’t just soup; it’s a flavor hug in a bowl, and I promise you’ll be coming back for seconds (and thirds!).

Ingredients

For the Bacon:

• 8 slices bacon, chopped

For the Soup Base:

• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 medium onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup milk
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

For the Gnocchi and Cheese:

• 1 (17.6 ounce) package gnocchi
• 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese

For Garnish (optional):

• Chopped green onions
• Extra shredded cheddar cheese
• Crispy bacon crumbles

Let’s Talk About What Makes This Soup So Special

Okay, friend, before we dive into the step-by-step, let’s chat about why this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a must-try. First, the flavor combo is simply irresistible. Bacon and cheddar are a match made in heaven, and when you add in the soft, chewy gnocchi? Pure comfort food bliss. What also sets this soup apart is how surprisingly easy it is to make. Don’t let the creamy, cheesy goodness fool you; this is a weeknight-friendly recipe that comes together in under an hour. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile. Feel free to add in other veggies you love, like spinach or carrots, to boost the nutritional value and customize it to your liking. Maybe you’re in the mood for something different? You could swap out the cheddar for a different cheese, like Gruyere or Fontina. This recipe is your blank canvas – have fun with it! You might also enjoy my Gnocchi Sausage Soup.

The Star of the Show: Gnocchi Selection

Now, let’s talk gnocchi! Choosing the right gnocchi can make all the difference in your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup. I personally prefer using the shelf-stable kind that comes in the vacuum-sealed package. They hold their shape really well and don’t get mushy in the soup. However, if you’re feeling fancy (or have a local Italian market nearby), fresh gnocchi is also an excellent option. Just be aware that fresh gnocchi cooks much faster, so you’ll want to add it to the soup closer to the end to prevent it from becoming overcooked. Another tip? Don’t overcook your gnocchi! Nobody likes gummy gnocchi. You want them to be tender but still have a bit of “bite” to them. Cook them according to the package directions and taste-test as you go to ensure they’re cooked to perfection.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy.
2. Remove the bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate, reserving about 1 tablespoon of bacon grease in the pot.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

1. Add the olive oil to the pot with the reserved bacon grease.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute, until fragrant.

Step 3: Build the Soup Base

1. Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream.
2. Stir in the dried thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer.

Step 4: Cook the Gnocchi

1. Add the gnocchi to the simmering soup.
2. Cook according to package directions, usually around 2-3 minutes, or until the gnocchi float to the surface and are tender.

Step 5: Add the Cheese and Bacon

1. Remove the pot from the heat.
2. Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until it is melted and smooth.
3. Stir in most of the cooked bacon, reserving some for garnish.

Step 6: Serve and Garnish

1. Ladle the Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup into bowls.
2. Garnish with chopped green onions, extra shredded cheddar cheese, and crispy bacon crumbles.
3. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Troubleshooting: Common Soup Hiccups

Okay, let’s be real, sometimes things don’t go exactly as planned in the kitchen. Here are a few common soup hiccups and how to fix them:

• Soup is too thick: No problem! Simply add a little more chicken broth or milk until you reach your desired consistency.
• Soup is too thin: If your soup is too thin, you can thicken it by whisking together a tablespoon of cornstarch with two tablespoons of cold water. Slowly stir the cornstarch slurry into the simmering soup until it thickens.
• Cheese isn’t melting smoothly: This can happen if the soup isn’t hot enough. Make sure the soup is warm (but not boiling) when you add the cheese, and stir continuously until it’s melted and smooth. You can also try using pre-shredded cheese, as it tends to melt more easily.

If you love the taste of potato in soups, then you need to try my Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup!

Variations to Make It Your Own

The beauty of soup is how easily you can customize it to your liking! Here are a few variations to inspire your inner chef:

• Spicy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the soup base for a touch of heat. You could even use pepper jack cheese instead of cheddar for an extra kick!
• Vegetarian Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup: Skip the bacon altogether and add in some sautéed mushrooms or roasted vegetables for a vegetarian-friendly version. You can also use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
• Creamy Tomato Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup: Stir in a can of diced tomatoes or tomato sauce for a tangy twist.
• Chicken Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup: Add shredded cooked chicken to the soup for a heartier meal.
• Add Some Greens: Toss in a handful of spinach or kale during the last few minutes of cooking for added nutrients and color.

Have you tried my Chicken Mushroom Soup? It is a family favorite, and I think you will enjoy it.

Make Ahead & Storage Tips

This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a great make-ahead meal! You can prepare the soup base (up to the point of adding the gnocchi and cheese) a day or two in advance and store it in the refrigerator. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the soup, add the gnocchi and cheese, and cook until the gnocchi are tender and the cheese is melted. Leftover soup can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The gnocchi may absorb some of the liquid as it sits, so you may need to add a little extra broth when reheating. I don’t recommend freezing this soup, as the gnocchi can become mushy when thawed. For another great creamy soup, try my Creamy Reuben Soup!

What to Serve with Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is delicious on its own, but it’s even better when paired with some tasty sides! Here are a few of my favorite pairings:

• Crusty Bread: A slice of crusty bread is perfect for soaking up all that delicious soup broth.
• Grilled Cheese Sandwich: Because why not double down on the cheese?
• Side Salad: A simple green salad with a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the rich and creamy soup.
• Garlic Bread: Because garlic bread makes everything better!

You may want to try my Crack Chicken Gnocchi recipe!

Final Thoughts

So there you have it – the ultimate Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup recipe! I hope you enjoy making and eating this comforting and delicious soup as much as I do. Don’t be afraid to get creative and add your own personal touch to the recipe. After all, the best recipes are the ones that are made with love. And for those days when you crave something a little lighter, don’t forget about my Creamy Pasta Soup – it’s another winner! Happy cooking, my friend!