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Creamy Bacon and Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

creamy bacon and cheddar gnocchi soup - featured image

A warm, comforting soup combining crispy bacon, sharp cheddar, and pillowy gnocchi in a creamy broth, perfect for cozy nights and easy meals.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 6 slices thick-cut bacon
  • 2 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced
  • 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 cups low sodium chicken broth
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 1 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
  • 1 pound potato gnocchi
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
  • 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
  • 2 tablespoons fresh chives, chopped (optional)
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Chop the bacon into bite-sized pieces and cook over medium heat in your soup pot until crisp, about 8–10 minutes. Use a slotted spoon to transfer the bacon to a paper towel-lined plate. Leave about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.
  2. Add the butter to the bacon fat and melt over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.
  3. Sprinkle the flour over the onions and garlic, stirring constantly for 2 minutes to cook out the raw flavor.
  4. Slowly pour in the chicken broth while whisking to avoid lumps. Add the diced potatoes and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to a simmer and cook until potatoes are tender, about 15 minutes.
  5. Optional: Lightly mash some potatoes against the side of the pot for a smoother texture.
  6. Add the gnocchi directly to the simmering soup and cook for 2–3 minutes until they float to the surface.
  7. Lower heat to medium-low and stir in the heavy cream. Gradually add the shredded cheddar cheese, stirring gently until melted and fully incorporated. Avoid boiling after adding cheese.
  8. Stir in the cooked bacon pieces, season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Garnish with chopped fresh chives if using. Serve immediately.

Notes

If the soup is too thick, add a splash of broth or cream to loosen it. Cook gnocchi directly in the soup to save time and dishes. Add cheese off the boil to prevent curdling. For gluten-free, use gluten-free flour or cornstarch and gluten-free gnocchi. Bacon can be swapped for smoked turkey bacon for lower fat.

Nutrition

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