Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
This creamy, cheesy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a comforting dish that combines smoky bacon, pillowy gnocchi, and rich cheeses for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
Meat
- 6 slices beef bacon or turkey bacon, chopped
Base
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Liquids
- 3 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 cup milk
- 1 cup heavy cream
Main Ingredients
- 1 package (16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 1.5 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 0.5 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1.5 cups chopped fresh spinach optional
Spices and Seasonings
- 0.25 tsp paprika
- 0.25 tsp black pepper
- Salt to taste
Garnish
- Chopped chives or green onions for garnish
Instructions
Preparation
- In a large pot, cook chopped beef bacon over medium heat until crispy. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, leaving about a tablespoon of the bacon fat in the pot for flavor.
- Add butter and diced onion to the pot. Cook for 3 to 4 minutes until translucent, then stir in minced garlic and cook for another minute.
Building the Soup
- Pour in the chicken broth, milk, and heavy cream. Stir well and bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
- Stir in the potato gnocchi and cook for 5 to 6 minutes until they rise to the surface and turn soft.
- Reduce heat to low and slowly add cheddar and mozzarella cheese, stirring constantly until melted and smooth. Avoid boiling to prevent the cheese from curdling.
Final Touches
- Stir in the chopped spinach (if using), paprika, black pepper, and a pinch of salt. Let the soup simmer for about 3 minutes to allow the flavors to blend.
- Ladle the soup into bowls, top with crispy bacon, and sprinkle with fresh chives or green onions before serving warm.
Notes
Make it lighter: Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream or swap full-fat cheese for reduced-fat options. Add protein: For a heartier version, stir in cooked shredded chicken or turkey along with the bacon. Reheating tip: When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to keep the soup smooth and creamy. Serving suggestion: Serve with garlic toast, cornbread, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.