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

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4.9 from 123 reviews

This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a rich, creamy, and comforting meal perfect for chilly days. Loaded with crispy bacon, tender gnocchi, and sharp cheddar cheese, this hearty soup combines savory flavors with a smooth, velvety texture. Easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, it’s an ideal family-friendly dish that warms the soul and satisfies cravings.

Ingredients

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Main Ingredients

  • 8-10 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
  • 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 1-2 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp black pepper
  • 1 tsp garlic powder or 4 cloves minced garlic
  • 1/4 tsp dried thyme
  • 1/2-1 tsp red chili flakes
  • 16 oz gnocchi
  • 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 2 cups cheddar cheese, medium or sharp, shredded

Instructions

  1. Cook the Bacon: In a large pot, cook the bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set it aside on a paper towel-lined plate to drain excess grease. Keep about 1 tablespoon of the bacon grease in the pot and discard the rest to maintain flavor without excess fat.
  2. Sauté the Vegetables: Add butter or olive oil to the pot with the reserved bacon grease. Stir in diced onions and sliced carrots. Cook for 5-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften and develop a sweet aroma.
  3. Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a gentle simmer. Season with salt, black pepper, garlic powder (or minced garlic), dried thyme, and red chili flakes. Stir well to blend all the flavors evenly.
  4. Cook the Gnocchi: Add the gnocchi directly to the pot. Allow it to cook according to package instructions, usually about 2 minutes, until they float to the top indicating they’re done.
  5. Stir in Cream and Cheese: Reduce heat to medium-low. Slowly pour in the heavy cream to prevent curdling. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese while stirring constantly to achieve a smooth, creamy texture without clumps.
  6. Add Bacon and Serve: Fold in the crispy bacon pieces, reserving some for garnish if desired. Ladle the soup into bowls and top with the remaining bacon and extra cheese for an indulgent finish. Serve hot for maximum comfort.

Notes

  • For a spicier soup, increase the amount of red chili flakes to taste.
  • You can substitute half-and-half for heavy cream for a lighter version, but the soup will be less rich.
  • Use gluten-free gnocchi for a gluten-free variation.
  • Leftover soup stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid breaking the cream.
  • If preferred, swap cheddar with other melting cheeses like gouda or Monterey Jack for a different flavor profile.

Find it online: https://cookedbyclara.com/bacon-cheddar-gnocchi-soup-a-rich-and-creamy-comfort-meal-recipe/