Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

There’s something magical about a soup that wraps you in warmth from the inside out, and this Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is exactly that kind of culinary hug. I first made it on a blustery autumn evening when the wind was howling and the only thing that sounded right was a bowl of something rich, creamy, and utterly comforting. It’s the kind of meal that makes you want to curl up on the couch with a fuzzy blanket, and it comes together in one pot with minimal fuss. If you love the cozy, stick-to-your-ribs quality of a good potato soup but crave the delightful chew of soft pasta pillows, you’ve found your new favorite recipe.

This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a hearty, family-friendly dinner that feels a little bit indulgent and a whole lot like home.

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Ingredients

The foundation of this incredible Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup starts with a simple, flavorful ingredient list. You likely have many of these items in your pantry right now.

• Bacon: 8 slices, chopped. This provides a smoky, salty base and crispy topping.
• Yellow Onion: 1 medium, diced.
• Carrots: 2 medium, peeled and diced.
• Celery: 2 stalks, diced. The onion, carrots, and celery create a classic, aromatic soffrito.
• Garlic: 3 cloves, minced. For that essential savory depth.
• All-Purpose Flour: 1/4 cup. This is our thickening agent for a luxuriously creamy soup.
• Chicken Broth: 4 cups. Use a good quality broth for the best flavor.
• Whole Milk: 2 cups. This creates a rich, creamy base without being overly heavy.
• Potato Gnocchi: 1 (16-ounce) package. Use shelf-stable or refrigerated gnocchi.
• Sharp Cheddar Cheese: 2 cups, freshly shredded. Pre-shredded cheese contains anti-caking agents that can make the soup grainy.
• Salt and Black Pepper: To taste.
• Fresh Parsley: For garnish (optional).

Smart Substitutions:

• Gluten-Free: Use a 1:1 gluten-free flour blend and certified gluten-free gnocchi.
• Dairy-Free: Swap the milk for unsweetened almond or oat milk, and use a dairy-free cheddar-style shred.
• Vegetarian: Omit the bacon and use 2 tablespoons of olive oil to sauté the vegetables. Add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to mimic the smoky flavor.
• Lighter Option: Use turkey bacon and low-fat milk.

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Timing

This soup is remarkably quick for something that tastes so deeply developed.

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 40 minutes

That’s faster than ordering takeout, and the result is a homemade, comforting meal that will have your whole kitchen smelling incredible.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

Follow these simple steps for a perfectly creamy and flavorful soup every single time.

Step 1: Cook the Bacon

In a large Dutch oven or heavy-bottomed pot, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave the rendered bacon fat in the pot—this is liquid gold for building flavor!

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery to the bacon fat. Sauté for 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables have softened and the onion is translucent. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for one more minute until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic.

Step 3: Create the Roux

Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables and stir continuously for about one minute. This cooks the raw flour taste out and creates a roux that will thicken our soup beautifully.

Step 4: Build the Soup Base

Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking constantly. This prevents the flour from clumping. Then, whisk in the milk. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, stirring occasionally. You’ll notice it beginning to thicken.

Step 5: Cook the Gnocchi

Stir in the package of potato gnocchi. Let the soup simmer for 5-7 minutes, or until the gnocchi are tender and floating to the top. They will cook right in the creamy broth, absorbing all that wonderful flavor.

Step 6: Add Cheese and Finish

Reduce the heat to low. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until it’s completely melted and the soup is smooth. Stir in most of the reserved cooked bacon, saving a little for garnish. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve immediately, garnished with the remaining bacon and fresh parsley.

Nutritional Information for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

This information is per serving (assuming the recipe serves 6) and is an estimate.

• Calories: 485
• Protein: 22g
• Carbohydrates: 38g
• Fat: 27g
• Saturated Fat: 12g
• Fiber: 3g

This soup provides a good source of protein from the bacon and cheese, and vitamin A from the carrots. For a lighter version, see the healthier alternatives below.

Equipment Needed for This Recipe

You don’t need any fancy gadgets for this one-pot wonder.

• Large Dutch Oven or Soup Pot: A heavy-bottomed pot is essential for even heating and preventing scorching.
• Wooden Spoon or Whisk: For stirring and creating a smooth roux.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons
• Chef’s Knife and Cutting Board
• Box Grater: For shredding your own cheese.

Why You’ll Love This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

This recipe has quickly become a reader favorite for so many good reasons.

• Ultimate Comfort Food: It’s creamy, cheesy, and incredibly satisfying.
• One-Pot Wonder: Easy to make and even easier to clean up.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike go crazy for the combination of bacon, cheese, and soft gnocchi.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 40 minutes from start to finish.
• Incredibly Versatile: Easily adaptable for different dietary needs (see swaps above).

Healthier Alternatives for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

You can absolutely enjoy this cozy soup while tailoring it to your nutritional goals.

• For a Lower-Carb Option: Omit the flour and use a cornstarch slurry (2 tablespoons cornstarch mixed with 1/4 cup cold water) to thicken the soup at the end. Replace the potato gnocchi with cauliflower gnocchi.
• To Boost Protein: Add a cup of diced, cooked chicken breast along with the gnocchi. You could also stir in a can of drained and rinsed white beans.
• For More Veggies: Feel free to add a handful of fresh spinach or kale in the last few minutes of cooking, or mix in some frozen peas.
• Lighter Cream Base: Use 1% or 2% milk instead of whole milk, and reduce the cheese to 1 1/2 cups.

If you’re exploring other creamy and satisfying soup options, our Slow Cooker Keto Chicken Cream Cheese Soup is a fantastic choice for a low-carb comfort food fix.

Serving Suggestions for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

This soup is a meal in itself, but a few simple additions can make it a feast.

• The Perfect Bread: A crusty baguette, warm garlic bread, or soft dinner rolls are perfect for dipping into the creamy broth.
• Fresh Salad: A simple side salad with a bright vinaigrette helps balance the richness of the soup. A classic Caesar or an arugula salad with lemon would be lovely.
• Toppings Bar: Set out extra shredded cheese, green onions, a dollop of sour cream, or red pepper flakes for everyone to customize their bowl.

For another hearty, Italian-inspired meal that’s packed with flavor, you have to try our Hearty White Lasagna Soup.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoid these simple pitfalls for the best soup possible.

• Using Pre-Shredded Cheese: It’s coated to prevent clumping, which can make your soup slightly grainy. Take the extra minute to shred a block of cheese for a perfectly smooth, creamy melt.
• Boiling After Adding Cheese: Once the cheese is in, keep the heat on low. Boiling can cause the dairy to separate, making the soup oily or curdled.
• Overcooking the Gnocchi: Gnocchi cook quickly. Once they float to the top, they are done. Overcooking will make them mushy.
• Not Seasoning at the End: Bacon and cheese are salty, so always taste your soup at the end and then add salt and pepper as needed.

Storing Tips for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

This soup is best enjoyed fresh, but leftovers are still delicious.

• Refrigeration: Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, stirring frequently. You may need to add a splash of broth or milk as the gnocchi will continue to absorb liquid, thickening the soup.
• Freezing: I do not recommend freezing this soup. The dairy-based sauce is likely to separate upon thawing, and the gnocchi will become very soft and mushy.

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup Conclusion

This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is the definition of a perfect comfort meal. It’s straightforward enough for a busy weeknight but special enough to serve to guests. The combination of smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and pillowy gnocchi in a creamy broth is simply irresistible. If you’re a fan of gnocchi, you must also check out our other popular variation, this Creamy Chicken Gnocchi Soup. And for those nights when you’re craving a different kind of creamy, cheesy potato situation, our Cheddar Garlic Herb Potato Soup is always a winner.

I truly hope this recipe becomes a new staple in your home. It’s a bowl of pure coziness. Let me know how your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup turns out in the comments below, and don’t forget to tag @Stacksipsnack on Pinterest to show off your creation

FAQs about Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

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