
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup 🥓🧀🥣
Warm, creamy, and oh-so comforting — this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate cozy dish you’ll want to make again and again. 🤍 Soft, pillowy gnocchi swim in a rich cheddar cheese broth with crispy bacon, tender veggies, and just the right amount of creaminess. It’s hearty enough for a main course and perfect for chilly nights, family dinners, or when you’re craving restaurant-style comfort food at home.
⏱️ Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cook Time: 30 minutes
🍽️ Servings: 6
Ingredients:
For the Soup Base:
6 slices thick-cut bacon, chopped
1 medium onion, finely diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
2 celery stalks, diced
4 cups chicken broth
2 cups whole milk (or half-and-half for extra creaminess)
1 cup heavy cream
2 tablespoons all-purpose flour (for thickening)
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
½ teaspoon dried thyme
Salt & black pepper, to taste
For the Gnocchi & Cheese:
1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
2½ cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
½ cup Parmesan cheese, grated
For Garnish:
Fresh parsley or chives, chopped
Extra bacon crumbles
Shredded cheddar (optional)
Instructions:
- Cook the bacon:
In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings in the pot. - Sauté the vegetables:
Add onion, carrots, and celery to the pot. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened. Stir in the minced garlic and cook another minute until fragrant. - Build the broth:
Sprinkle flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream until smooth. - Add flavor:
Stir in smoked paprika, thyme, salt, and pepper. Simmer gently for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the soup begins to thicken. - Cook the gnocchi:
Add the gnocchi directly into the simmering soup. Cook according to package directions (usually 3–4 minutes), or until the gnocchi float to the top. - Make it cheesy:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar and Parmesan cheese until melted and creamy. - Add the bacon back:
Stir most of the crispy bacon into the soup, reserving some for garnish. - Serve & enjoy:
Ladle into bowls, garnish with parsley, extra bacon crumbles, and more cheddar if desired. Serve hot with crusty bread for dipping.
Tips & Variations:
✅ Use turkey bacon for a lighter version.
✅ Add spinach or kale at the end for extra nutrients.
✅ Swap cheddar for smoked gouda or Monterey Jack for a new flavor twist.
✅ Make it ahead — the soup reheats beautifully (add a splash of broth or milk if it thickens).