If you’re craving something that wraps you in warmth and pure comfort, let me introduce you to Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal. This soup is everything you want on a chilly evening: velvety creaminess meets the satisfying bite of tender gnocchi, with crispy bacon and sharp cheddar cheese weaving layers of flavor that will have you savoring every spoonful. It’s not just soup; it’s a bowl of happiness that feels like a cozy hug from the inside out.

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting your hands on these simple, yet essential ingredients is the first step to making magic happen in your kitchen. Each component brings its own charm—onions and carrots for sweet earthiness, smoky bacon for crunch and depth, and of course, cheese and cream that transform everything into a luscious delight.

8-10 slices bacon: Crumbled crispy bacon adds irresistible smoky flavor and texture contrast.

1 tbsp butter or olive oil: This is your base for sautéing veggies and building rich flavor.
1 large onion, diced: Adds a natural sweetness and forms an aromatic backbone.

2 large carrots, peeled and sliced: Bring subtle sweetness and beautiful color to your soup.
4 cups chicken broth: The savory liquid that ties all ingredients together with warmth and depth.

1-2 tsp salt: Enhances all the flavors, so season carefully.
1 tsp black pepper: Adds a gentle bite to balance the richness.
1 tsp garlic powder (or 4 cloves minced garlic): Provides that signature aromatic punch everyone loves.

¼ tsp dried thyme: Offers a subtle herbal note that lifts the soup’s profile.
½-1 tsp red chili flakes (optional): For a hint of heat that livens up the creamy base.
16 oz gnocchi: These pillowy dumplings soak up the broth and add a satisfying chew.

2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half: Creates that signature rich, velvety mouthfeel.
2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp): Melts perfectly into the soup, lending sharp, cheesy goodness.

How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal

Step 1: Crisp the Bacon

Start by cooking your bacon slices until golden brown and crispy. This step brings out that smoky aroma and gives a wonderful crunch that contrasts beautifully with the soft gnocchi. Once cooked, chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces and set it aside, keeping all that flavorful bacon fat if you want to drizzle it later.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

In a large pot, melt your butter or heat olive oil over medium heat. Toss in the diced onion and sliced carrots, then cook until the onions turn translucent and the carrots have softened. This gentle sauté develops the natural sweetness of the vegetables, forming the flavor foundation of your soup.

Step 3: Build the Broth

Pour in your chicken broth and bring the mixture to a simmer. This not only warms up the base but also allows the flavors to mingle while softening the vegetables further—preparing the perfect stage for the creamy ingredients to shine.

Step 4: Add Cream, Cheese, and Seasonings

Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream or half-and-half. This is where your soup starts to get that signature luxurious texture. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder or fresh garlic, thyme, and if you’re feeling adventurous, a pinch of red chili flakes for subtle heat. Gradually add your shredded cheddar cheese, stirring continuously until it melts smoothly into the broth.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

Drop the gnocchi into the simmering soup, cooking for about 2 minutes or until they float and become soft. These tender dumplings soak up the creamy broth, making each spoonful feel rich and indulgent.

Step 6: Stir in Bacon and Serve

Finally, fold in the crispy bacon pieces, give everything a good stir, taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Serve your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal hot, and watch it disappear from the bowl faster than you can say “yum.”

How to Serve Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal

Garnishes

You can elevate your soup experience by sprinkling freshly chopped chives or green onions on top. A small dollop of sour cream or a sprinkle of extra crispy bacon adds texture and color, brightening the presentation and deepening the flavors.

Side Dishes

Serve alongside crusty artisan bread or garlic toast to scoop up every last bit of this creamy delight. A refreshing green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can balance the richness beautifully, keeping your meal well-rounded.

Creative Ways to Present

For a show-stopping presentation, ladle the soup into mini bread bowls or rustic ceramic mugs. Layer a few extra cheese shreds and bacon on top, then pop under the broiler until bubbly and golden for a gourmand’s dream bowl of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Place leftover soup in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Because gnocchi can absorb soup and swell over time, it’s best to store the soup and gnocchi separately if you plan to enjoy leftovers later.

Freezing

This soup doesn’t freeze as well due to the dairy and gnocchi texture changes, but if you want to freeze it, omit the gnocchi before freezing. When ready to enjoy, thaw and gently heat the soup, then cook fresh gnocchi in a separate pot and combine before serving.

Reheating

Warm your soup gently over low heat, stirring frequently to prevent the cheese from clumping. Adding a splash of broth or cream during reheating can help restore the silky consistency you loved on the first day.

FAQs

Can I use turkey bacon instead of regular bacon?

Absolutely! Turkey bacon is a great alternative if you want a slightly leaner option. Just cook it until crisp for the best texture and flavor boost.

What type of cheddar cheese works best?

Either medium or sharp cheddar works wonderfully here. Sharp cheddar will give a punchier flavor, while medium is milder and creamier. Choose based on your preference!

Is it possible to make this soup vegetarian?

To make this vegetarian, use vegetable broth and omit the bacon or substitute it with smoked tempeh or vegetarian bacon bits for that smoky flavor without the meat.

Can I make this soup dairy-free?

Yes, with some tweaks! Use dairy-free cream alternatives like coconut cream and dairy-free cheese substitutes. The texture will differ slightly, but it will still be delicious.

Why does my gnocchi sometimes get mushy in soups?

Gnocchi can absorb too much liquid and lose their firmness if cooked too long or stored in the soup. Adding them at the last minute and cooking just until tender helps keep them nice and pillowy without turning mushy.

Final Thoughts

There’s something incredibly satisfying about sitting down with a steaming bowl of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal. It’s cozy, indulgent, and packed with flavors that hit all the right spots. I hope you give this recipe a try and make it one of your favorite go-to comfort meals just like I have!

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – A Rich and Creamy Comfort Meal Recipe

★★★★★

5.2 from 17 reviews

Author: Lila
Total Time: 35 minutes

Yield: 6 servings 1x
Diet: Low Lactose

Print Recipe

Description

This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting meal perfect for chilly days. Loaded with crispy bacon, tender gnocchi, sharp cheddar cheese, and a blend of aromatic spices, this hearty soup combines savory flavors with a velvety texture to satisfy your cravings.

Instructions

Cook the Bacon: Cook the bacon slices in a skillet until crispy. Once cooked, remove them from the pan, drain on paper towels, and chop into small pieces. Set aside for later use.
Sauté Vegetables: In a large pot, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onions and sliced carrots. Cook while stirring frequently until the onions become translucent and the carrots are tender, about 5-7 minutes.

Add Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. This will help cook the carrots further and build the base flavor for the soup.
Incorporate Cream and Seasonings: Stir in the heavy cream (or half-and-half), salt, black pepper, garlic powder, dried thyme, and optional red chili flakes. Mix well and let it warm through without boiling, allowing the flavors to meld.
Add Cheese and Melt: Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese to the pot, stirring continuously to ensure the cheese melts smoothly into the soup, creating a creamy texture.

Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi to the simmering soup and cook for about 2 minutes or until the gnocchi float to the surface and become tender.
Finish and Serve: Stir in the chopped crispy bacon. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve the soup hot, garnished with extra cheese or bacon if desired.

Notes

For a vegetarian version, omit bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

Gnocchi cooks quickly; do not overcook as they will become mushy.
Use sharp cheddar for a more pronounced cheese flavor.
You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half for a lighter soup.

If you prefer a thicker soup, reduce the amount of chicken broth slightly or add a tablespoon of flour when sautéing onions and carrots.
Red chili flakes add a mild heat; omit if you want a milder flavor.

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes
Category: Soup
Method: Simmering and Sautéing

Cuisine: American

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1.5 cups
Calories: 410

Sugar: 4g
Sodium: 750mg
Fat: 28g

Saturated Fat: 14g
Unsaturated Fat: 12g
Trans Fat: 0.3g

Carbohydrates: 22g
Fiber: 2g
Protein: 15g

Cholesterol: 75mg

Keywords: bacon cheddar gnocchi soup, creamy gnocchi soup, bacon soup, comfort food, easy soup recipe, cheesy soup