This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is creamy, comforting, and packed with flavor! With tasty bacon and cheesy goodness, it’s like a warm hug in a bowl.
I can’t resist the chewy gnocchi floating in all that cheesy soup. It’s perfect for chilly days when you just want something cozy and delicious. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: This is the star ingredient that gives your soup a delicious smoky flavor. If you’re looking for alternatives, turkey bacon works well for a lighter option, or you could use chopped ham for a different twist.
Pasta Gnocchi: While potato gnocchi is the traditional choice, you can also use cauliflower gnocchi for a lower-carb version or even pasta such as small shells if gnocchi is hard to find.
Sharp Cheddar Cheese: Sharp cheddar brings a tangy flavor that balances nicely with the creaminess. If you want something milder, try medium cheddar or even a mix of cheeses like Gouda or Monterey Jack.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, you could swap heavy cream with whole milk or half-and-half, but keep in mind the soup will be less rich. A dairy-free option could include coconut milk.
How Do I Get the Perfectly Crispy Bacon?
Getting your bacon crispy is key for adding that satisfying crunch to your soup. Here’s how to do it:
- Heat your pot over medium heat before adding the bacon. This helps render the fat, leading to better crisping.
- Cook the bacon in batches if necessary, so it doesn’t steam. Avoid overcrowding the pot.
- Let the bacon sit undisturbed for a couple of minutes, then flip to ensure even cooking.
- When it’s golden and crispy, transfer it to paper towels to drain excess fat.
This technique will make your bacon so crispy and delicious that you might be tempted to snack on it before it even reaches your soup!
How Do I Make a Creamy Soup Without Curdling?
To achieve a smooth, creamy soup, follow these tips:
- Always lower the heat before adding dairy. High heat can cause dairy to curdle.
- Add cream gradually, stirring constantly to help it blend smoothly into the soup.
- A little bit of flour in the beginning helps stabilize the mixture, reducing the risk of curdling.
Following these steps will ensure your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is not just creamy but also comfortingly delicious! Enjoy every spoonful!
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup Base:
- 8 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 medium onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 lb potato gnocchi (store-bought or homemade)
For the Creamy Mixture:
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 1/2 cups heavy cream
- 2 tbsp all-purpose flour
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter
For Seasoning:
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1/2 tsp dried thyme
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
- Optional: crushed red pepper flakes, for a little heat
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and then around another 20 minutes cooking everything to creamy perfection!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
Start by placing your chopped bacon in a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Cook it until crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces when they’re done and place them on paper towels to drain excess fat. Leave the bacon fat in the pot—it adds flavor!
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Now, add the butter to the hot bacon fat in the pot. Once the butter has melted, toss in the chopped onion and sauté for about 5 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it smells heavenly.
3. Make the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the sautéed onion and garlic mix. Stir constantly for 1-2 minutes to create a roux, which will help thicken your soup later.
4. Add Broth and Seasoning:
Gradually whisk in the chicken broth, ensuring there are no lumps. Now, add the smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, and enjoy that wonderful aroma!
5. Cook the Gnocchi:
Add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions or until the gnocchi float to the top, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes!
6. Stir in Cream and Cheese:
Lower the heat and pour in the heavy cream along with the shredded cheddar cheese. Stir continuously until the cheese fully melts, and the soup becomes creamy and smooth. Don’t forget to taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed!
7. Combine with Bacon:
Now it’s time to add half of the crispy bacon back into the soup, saving the rest for garnish. Gently heat through, but avoid boiling it after adding the cream and cheese.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your delicious soup hot, topped with the reserved crispy bacon, a sprinkle of extra cheddar cheese, fresh parsley, and a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes if you like a little spice!
Enjoy this rich and cheesy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup that will warm your heart and satisfy your taste buds!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar is fantastic, you can experiment with other cheeses like Gouda, Monterey Jack, or even a mix of your favorites. Just keep in mind that the flavor profile will change slightly with each substitution!
How Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add some sautéed mushrooms or additional vegetables for flavor and texture!
Can I Freeze Leftover Soup?
Yes, you can freeze the soup! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to airtight containers or freezer bags. It will be good for up to 3 months. When reheating, keep in mind that the texture may change slightly, so stir well and add a splash of milk or broth to help smooth it out.
What Should I Serve This Soup With?
This soup pairs wonderfully with a crusty bread or a simple side salad. You can also serve it with a sprinkle of fresh herbs or even some extra crispy bacon on top for added crunch!
