Print

Creamy Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

creamy bacon cheddar gnocchi soup - featured image

A cozy, creamy soup featuring smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and tender gnocchi, perfect for warming up on chilly winter evenings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 slices bacon, diced
  • 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
  • 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium recommended)
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 package (about 16 oz or 450 g) potato gnocchi (fresh or frozen)
  • 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
  • Chopped fresh chives or parsley, for garnish

Instructions

  1. Cook the bacon in a Dutch oven over medium heat until crisp and browned, about 6-8 minutes. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside on paper towels, leaving 1-2 tablespoons of bacon fat in the pot.
  2. Add unsalted butter to the bacon fat. Once melted, add chopped onion and sauté for 4-5 minutes until translucent and slightly golden. Add minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle flour over the onion mixture and stir constantly for 2 minutes to create a roux.
  4. Slowly pour in chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Add diced potatoes and bring to a gentle boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 12-15 minutes until potatoes are tender.
  5. Stir in gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually 2-3 minutes, until gnocchi float to the surface and are tender.
  6. Lower heat to medium-low and slowly stir in heavy cream. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth. Add smoked paprika, salt, and pepper to taste.
  7. Return cooked bacon to the pot and stir gently. Warm through for 2 more minutes. Ladle into bowls and garnish with chopped chives or parsley.

Notes

Add cheese gradually and stir often to prevent clumping. If soup is too thick, add broth or cream to adjust consistency. Use low sodium broth to control saltiness. For gluten-free, substitute flour and gnocchi accordingly. For dairy-free, use coconut cream and dairy-free cheese alternatives.

Nutrition

Keywords: bacon soup, cheddar soup, gnocchi soup, creamy soup, winter dinner, comfort food, easy soup recipe