This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a warm hug in a bowl! It’s creamy, cheesy, and filled with delightful little gnocchi and crispy bacon pieces.
Honestly, what’s not to love about cheesy soup topped with bacon? It’s like comfort food’s best friend! I love serving it with some crusty bread to soak up all that goodness.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a healthier option, turkey bacon or pancetta are good alternatives. Both will still provide great taste, just with a lighter twist!
Onion: A small onion brings in some sweetness and depth. If you’re out of onions, leeks or shallots work wonderfully too. They both provide a milder taste.
Gnocchi: Potato gnocchi are perfect here for their soft texture. You could also use homemade gnocchi or replace them with small pasta like orzo or tortellini if you prefer.
Cheddar Cheese: I love sharp cheddar for its robust flavor in this soup. If you want something milder, try using Colby or a mild cheddar. Vegan cheese can also be used for dairy-free options.
Milk or Half-and-Half: For creaminess, whole milk is great, but you can use 2% milk or a plant-based milk mixed with a little more flour for thickening. Coconut milk works surprisingly well too!
How Do You Make the Soup Creamy and Cheesy?
The key to a creamy and cheesy soup lies in properly making the roux and incorporating the cheese. Here’s what to keep in mind:
- When cooking the roux, stir constantly to prevent burning. This helps thicken the soup smoothly.
- Gradually whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps. Stir until everything is well combined and thickening.
- Lower the heat before adding the cheese; this prevents it from clumping and ensures a creamy texture.
- Mix the cheese in slowly, allowing it to melt completely for that perfect velvety finish!
Enjoy making this soup! It’s a big hit and quite simple once you get these techniques down. Happy cooking!
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup whole milk or half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
- 1 package (about 16 oz) potato gnocchi
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 20 minutes to cook. You’ll have a hearty meal ready in about 30 minutes. Perfect for a cozy evening!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cooking the Bacon:
Start by heating a large pot or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add in the chopped bacon and cook until crispy, which should take about 5-7 minutes. Once done, remove the bacon pieces and let them drain on paper towels, leaving the yummy bacon fat in the pot.
2. Sautéing the Vegetables:
In the same pot with the bacon fat, add the diced onion. Sauté for about 5 minutes until the onion is soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant. We want our soup to smell amazing!
3. Making the Roux:
Sprinkle the flour over the cooked onion and garlic mixture, stirring constantly for about 1-2 minutes. This will create a roux that helps thicken our soup. It should lightly golden and blend together nicely.
4. Adding the Broth:
Next, gradually whisk in the chicken broth, breaking up any lumps. Let it come to a gentle simmer, cooking for about 5 minutes until the soup thickens a bit. This is the foundation of your flavorful broth!
5. Cooking the Gnocchi:
Once the broth is hot, stir in the whole milk or half-and-half, followed by the gnocchi. Cook according to the package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until the gnocchi float to the top and become tender.
6. Adding the Creaminess:
Turn the heat down to low and add in the butter, shredded cheddar cheese, and paprika. Stir until the cheese is completely melted and the soup is smooth. Taste and season with salt and freshly ground black pepper to your liking.
7. Serving the Soup:
Serve the soup hot in bowls, topping each one with the reserved crispy bacon pieces and a sprinkling of chopped fresh parsley for a pop of color and extra flavor. Enjoy every comforting bite of your creamy, cheesy goodness!
Happy cooking and enjoy your delicious Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup!
Can I Substitute the Bacon?
Absolutely! If you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon or pancetta can be used instead. For a vegetarian option, you can omit the bacon and add a little smoked paprika for that smoky flavor.
How Can I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk to loosen the soup if it’s too thick.
Can I Make This Soup Dairy-Free?
Yes! You can use plant-based milk like almond or oat milk and a dairy-free cheese substitute. Just ensure the plant-based alternatives complement the flavor well!
What Can I Serve With This Soup?
This soup goes wonderfully with crusty bread or a simple side salad. You can also serve it with garlic bread for a comforting meal!