There’s something magical about wrapping your hands around a warm bowl of soup on a chilly evening. This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup isn’t just another recipe—it’s a hug in a bowl. I still remember the first time I whipped this up after a long day: the sizzle of bacon, the swirl of creamy cheddar, and those pillowy gnocchi that practically melt on your tongue. With every spoonful, you get a balance of smoky bacon bits, tender potato dumplings, and a silky broth that feels both indulgent and comforting.
What makes this soup truly shine is how effortlessly it comes together. In just 15 minutes of prep time and about 30 minutes of cooking, you’ll have dinner on the table—plus a quick 5-minute rest before serving. Tailored for home cooks of all skill levels (yes, even beginners!), it’s perfect for a cozy dinner or a hearty lunch. Whether you’re warming up after a blustery walk or craving something rich and savory, this recipe has your name on it. With roughly 550 calories per serving, it feels like a treat without being over the top. So grab your apron, dust off that Dutch oven, and let’s dive into a bowlful of comfort!
KEY INGREDIENTS IN BACON CHEDDAR GNOCCHI SOUP
Every ingredient in this soup has its starring moment, coming together to create layers of flavor and texture. From salty bacon to melting cheddar and tender gnocchi, each component plays a vital role in building that luscious, hearty broth you’ll want to savor sip after sip.
- Bacon
Crispy and smoky, chopped bacon lays the savory foundation of this soup. Rendering its fat adds incredible depth of flavor and a satisfying crunch when stirred back in at the end.
- Unsalted butter
A touch of butter helps sauté the aromatics without adding extra salt, ensuring a rich, velvety base for the soup.
- Onion
Finely chopped onion brings sweetness and body. As it cooks to translucent perfection, it softens and infuses the broth with a mellow, savory note.
- Garlic
Minced garlic adds a warm, aromatic punch. Just a minute in the pot releases its fragrant oils without turning bitter.
- All-purpose flour
Sprinkled over the onions and garlic, flour acts as a thickening agent, giving the soup that luxurious, creamy consistency.
- Chicken broth
The backbone of the soup, chicken broth provides a savory, umami-rich liquid that balances the dairy and bacon.
- Milk
Whole milk rounds out the broth with a gentle creaminess and light sweetness, contributing to the overall silky texture.
- Dried thyme
This herb adds a hint of earthiness and subtle floral aroma, complementing the richness of the cheese and bacon.
- Salt and pepper
Essential seasonings that enhance every flavor layer, adjusted to taste for perfect balance.
- Potato gnocchi
Soft, pillowy dumplings that soak up the creamy broth, providing satisfying bite and chew.
- Cheddar cheese
Sharp shredded cheddar melts into the soup, adding tangy richness and a gooey, comforting mouthfeel.
- Baby spinach
Fresh leaves stir in at the end, wilting gently to introduce vibrant color and a touch of green freshness.
- Heavy cream
Just a splash of cream heightens the overall richness, making the soup irresistibly smooth.
- Green onions or chives (optional)
A final sprinkle for color and mild oniony brightness that cuts through the creaminess.
HOW TO MAKE BACON CHEDDAR GNOCCHI SOUP
Let’s roll up our sleeves and dive into the heart of this recipe. Each step builds on the last, creating layers of savory goodness until you’re left with a bowl of pure comfort. Follow these detailed instructions to achieve that perfect balance of creamy, cheesy, and smoky flavors.
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, letting excess fat drip back into the pot, and set the bacon aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
2. In the same pot, add the unsalted butter to the bacon fat. Once melted, introduce the chopped onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and continue cooking for an additional minute. You’ll know it’s ready when you catch that fragrant garlic aroma without any browning.
4. Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the onion and garlic mixture. Cook, stirring constantly, for 1–2 minutes to eliminate the raw flour taste and form a light roux.
5. Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, pouring in small streams to avoid lumps. Stir in the dried thyme, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then add the potato gnocchi. Cook for 5–7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the gnocchi are tender and begin to float to the top.
7. Reduce the heat to low and gradually stir in the shredded cheddar cheese. Mix until fully melted and the soup is smooth and creamy.
8. Add the fresh baby spinach and cook just long enough for it to wilt, about 1–2 minutes.
9. Pour in the heavy cream and fold in the reserved bacon, stirring until everything is heated through and evenly distributed.
10. Serve the soup warm, garnished with chopped green onions or chives for a pop of color and fresh flavor.
SERVING SUGGESTIONS FOR BACON CHEDDAR GNOCCHI SOUP
Once your soup is hot and ready, it’s time to think about presentation and pairing. A few thoughtful touches can elevate this cozy dish from delicious to unforgettable. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a quiet night in, these ideas will help you serve your soup in style.
- Crusty bread on the side
Offer thick slices of artisan bread or a warm baguette. The crisp crust and soft interior are perfect for dipping and soaking up every last drop of that creamy broth.
- Garnish with fresh herbs
Sprinkle chopped parsley or extra chives on top. The bright herbal notes cut through the richness and add a fresh, vibrant finish.
- Add a drizzle of chili oil
For a spicy twist, lightly swirl chili-infused oil on the surface. It introduces a gentle heat that contrasts beautifully with the cheesy base.
- Pair with a light salad
A simple mixed greens salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette offers a crisp, tangy counterpoint, balancing the soup’s hearty richness.
HOW TO STORE BACON CHEddar GNOCCHI SOUP
Proper storage ensures your soup stays as fresh and flavorful as the day you made it. Whether you have leftovers or want to batch-cook for the week, these tips will help you preserve textures and tastes.
Cooking this soup ahead of time can be a true lifesaver on busy days. Start by letting it cool slightly at room temperature—about 20 to 30 minutes—before transferring to storage containers. If you plan to freeze portions, leave out the gnocchi and spinach until reheating so they don’t become overly soft.
- Refrigerator storage
Transfer cooled soup into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally.
- Freezer storage
For longer-lasting soup, cool completely and pour into freezer-safe bags or containers, leaving some headspace. Freeze for up to 3 months. When ready, thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating and adding fresh gnocchi and spinach.
- Separate ingredients
If you’re planning for meal prep, store the soup base, cooked bacon, and raw gnocchi separately. Combine and reheat just before serving to maintain perfect gnocchi texture.
- Vacuum sealing
For the ultimate in freshness, use a vacuum sealer to remove air from your soup bags. This method can extend freezer life and protect against freezer burn.
CONCLUSION
Cooking up Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup brings warmth to both the kitchen and the table. From that first sizzle of bacon to the final swirl of creamy cheddar and spinach, this recipe is designed for home cooks looking for comfort, flavor, and simplicity. In about 50 minutes from start to finish—including just 15 minutes of prep—you’ll create a bowl of hearty goodness that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Beginner-friendly and beginner-approved, this dish is an easy way to impress family or treat yourself after a long day.
Feel free to print this article and tuck it into your recipe binder or bookmark it for future cozy nights. There’s also a FAQ section below to help troubleshoot any questions you might have. If you give this soup a try, I’d love to hear how it turns out! Drop your comments, questions, or feedback—I’m here to help you make this creamy, comforting soup a new weeknight favorite. Enjoy every spoonful!
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Description
This luscious soup combines crispy bacon, creamy cheddar, and tender gnocchi in a rich broth, creating a delightfully satisfying dish that keeps you cozy.
Ingredients
Instructions
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In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove the bacon from the pot with a slotted spoon and set aside on a paper towel-lined plate.
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In the same pot, add the unsalted butter. Once melted, add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
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Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
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Sprinkle the flour over the onion and garlic mixture and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes to remove the raw flour taste.
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Slowly whisk in the chicken broth and milk, ensuring there are no lumps. Add dried thyme, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
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Bring the mixture to a simmer, then add the potato gnocchi. Cook for 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and start to float to the top.
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Reduce the heat to low and stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted and the soup is smooth.
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Add the fresh spinach and cook until wilted, about 1-2 minutes.
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Stir in the heavy cream and reserved bacon, heating the soup through.
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Serve the soup warm, garnished with chopped green onions or chives, if desired.
Note
- For a smoky twist, consider using smoked cheddar cheese.
- This soup can be easily transformed into a vegetarian dish by omitting the bacon and using vegetable broth.
- You can add extra vegetables like carrots or celery for additional flavor and nutrition.
- If you prefer a thicker soup, increase the amount of flour or reduce the liquid slightly.
- This soup is perfect for freezing, but leave out the gnocchi and spinach until you are ready to serve it.
