Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup: A Comforting Delight for the Whole Family!
When the weather turns chilly, there’s nothing better than cozying up with a bowl of warm, hearty soup. This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food—loaded with creamy cheese, smoky bacon, and tender potato gnocchi, it’s a dish that feels like a warm hug. Known as one of the best gnocchi soup recipes, it combines everything you love about loaded gnocchi soup and potato soup with gnocchi, creating a thick and satisfying bowl that’s perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you’re a fan of creamy pasta soup recipes or looking for a crowd-pleaser, this is one recipe you’ll come back to time and again!
Preparation and Cooking Overview
| Preparation Time | Total Cooking Time | Number of People |
|---|---|---|
| 20 minutes | 40 minutes | 6 servings |
Ingredients for My Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
- For the soup:
- 1 pound potato gnocchi
- 4 slices of bacon, diced
- 1 pound ground sausage (mild or spicy)
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups whole milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
- For serving:
- Crusty bread or dinner rolls (optional)
Pro Tips for Success
- Choose Quality Gnocchi: Opt for fresh or refrigerated gnocchi for the best texture; shelf-stable versions can be slightly denser.
- Cook Bacon Slowly: Fry the bacon over medium heat to render out the fat and achieve a crisp texture without burning.
- Grate Your Own Cheese: Pre-shredded cheese may not melt as smoothly due to anti-caking agents; freshly grated cheese is ideal.
- Adjust Seasonings at the End: Cheese and bacon can add saltiness, so taste the soup before adding extra salt.
- Serve Immediately: Gnocchi can absorb liquid over time; serve right away for the creamiest texture.
Tools Required for Making This Recipe
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Wooden spoon
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle
Substitutions and Variations
| Substitution | Original Ingredient | New Flavor Profile |
|---|---|---|
| Turkey bacon | Pork bacon | Lighter and slightly less smoky |
| Italian sausage | Ground sausage | More herbaceous flavor |
| Half-and-half | Heavy cream | Slightly lighter soup texture |
| Gluten-free flour | All-purpose flour | Gluten-free option |
| Mozzarella cheese | Cheddar cheese | Milder, stretchy cheese soup |
Make Ahead Tips
- Prep Ingredients: Dice the bacon, chop the veggies, and measure out spices and liquids ahead of time.
- Cook the Bacon and Sausage: Prepare and store them separately in the fridge for up to two days.
- Reheat Gently: Warm the soup over low heat, adding extra broth or cream if it thickens too much.
Step-by-Step Instructions for a Perfect Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
1. Cook the Bacon
Fry the diced bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside.
2. Brown the Sausage
Add the ground sausage to the pot and cook until browned, breaking it into small pieces. Remove and set aside.
3. Sauté Vegetables
Add butter to the pot, then sauté onion, carrots, and garlic until softened.
4. Create the Base
Stir in flour and smoked paprika to form a roux, then gradually whisk in chicken broth, milk, and cream until smooth.
5. Add the Gnocchi
Bring the soup to a simmer, then add the gnocchi and cook until tender.
6. Incorporate Cheese and Meat
Stir in the shredded cheddar cheese until melted, then return the bacon and sausage to the pot.
7. Garnish and Serve
Ladle into bowls and garnish with fresh parsley and additional bacon crumbles. Serve hot.
Serving Suggestions for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
| Pairing Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Crusty bread | Perfect for dipping into the creamy soup. |
| Side salad | A light green salad balances the richness. |
| Roasted vegetables | Adds a savory, caramelized side. |
Tips for Leftovers and Storage
- Storage: Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat Slowly: Warm on low heat, adding a splash of milk or broth if the soup has thickened.
- Freezing: Not recommended, as the gnocchi can become mushy.
Nutritional Information and Benefits of This Dish
This soup offers a balance of carbs, proteins, and fats, with approximately 450 calories per serving. It’s rich in calcium from the cheese and contains Vitamin A from the carrots. While indulgent, it’s a satisfying and hearty meal!
Suggested Drink That Pairs With the Dish
Pair this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup with a light, crisp white wine like a Sauvignon Blanc or a dry Riesling. The acidity of the wine complements the richness of the soup beautifully. For a non-alcoholic option, a sparkling apple cider works wonderfully to cut through the creamy texture.
Enjoy!
This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a cozy dish that will warm your heart and fill your home with delicious aromas. It’s perfect for family meals, quick enough for busy weeknights, and indulgent enough to impress your guests. So grab your pot, gather your ingredients, and make this irresistible soup today—you won’t regret it!
