Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food, bringing together the irresistible flavors of crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and pillowy potato gnocchi in a warm, creamy soup. This hearty dish is perfect for chilly evenings when you want something satisfying and easy to prepare.

Blending traditions from Italian cuisine—where gnocchi, soft dough dumplings, are a staple—with the unmistakable American love of cheddar and bacon, this soup has become a modern classic in home kitchens.

Over the past decade, potato gnocchi have surged in popularity in the US, appearing not only in pasta-based entrees but also as a thickener and substantial ingredient in soups and stews.

Meanwhile, the pairing of bacon and cheddar is a time-honored tradition, adding smoky depth and richness to a variety of comfort dishes. Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup capitalizes on these culinary trends, lending both nostalgia and innovation to your table.

Whether you’re searching for a weeknight meal, a crowd-pleasing starter, or a dish that pairs beautifully with crusty bread for lunch, this soup hits all the right notes with its satisfying combination of textures and flavors.

By the time you finish a steaming bowl, you’ll see why it has quickly become a favorite in kitchens across the country.

Ingredients

• 6 strips thick-cut bacon
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
• 1 medium yellow onion, diced
• 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
• 2 celery stalks, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 2 cups half and half
• 1 pound potato gnocchi
• 2 cups grated sharp cheddar cheese
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
• 1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or to taste
• 2 cups baby spinach leaves
• 2 green onions, sliced, for garnish

Instructions

1. In a large Dutch oven or soup pot, cook the bacon strips over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and set aside on paper towels to drain. Discard all but 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat from the pot.
2. Add the butter to the pot. Once melted, stir in the diced onion, carrots, and celery. Sauté for 6-7 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are softened and the onions are translucent.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 more minute until fragrant.
4. Sprinkle the flour over the vegetables, stirring constantly to combine and cook off the raw flavor, about 2 minutes.
5. Slowly pour in the chicken broth, whisking constantly to break up any lumps. Add the half and half, continuing to stir until the mixture is smooth and slightly thickened.
6. Increase the heat and bring the soup to a gentle simmer. Add the potato gnocchi, smoked paprika, dried thyme, salt, and pepper. Cook for 5-6 minutes, or until the gnocchi begin to float and are tender.
7. Lower the heat and gradually stir in the grated cheddar cheese and Parmesan, allowing the cheese to fully melt and integrate into the soup.
8. Add the baby spinach and cook for 1-2 minutes until just wilted.
9. Crumble the cooked bacon and stir half into the soup, reserving the rest for garnish.
10. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Ladle the soup into bowls, garnish with remaining bacon and sliced green onions, and serve immediately.

Nutritional Information

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a decadent yet satisfying meal. A typical serving (1 generous bowl, about 2 cups) delivers approximately 450-550 calories, making it an excellent main dish. This soup is generous in protein, thanks to the bacon, cheddar cheese, and gnocchi, offering about 16-20 grams per serving.

Carbohydrates come primarily from the gnocchi and a touch from the vegetables, amounting to around 45-55 grams per portion. The use of half and half, cheddar, and Parmesan provides richness, contributing to about 20-25 grams of fat per bowl, much of which comes from saturated fat.

There is also a good fiber content, thanks to the carrots, celery, and spinach. Sodium content should be monitored, especially with bacon and cheese, ranging from 900-1200 mg per serving, depending on the cheeses and broth used. For a lighter version, consider using reduced-fat cheese and low-sodium bacon and broth.

Despite its indulgent profile, this soup offers nutrients such as calcium from dairy, vitamins A and C from the vegetables, and iron from the spinach. As always, portion control and balanced side dishes can help make this comforting meal fit within a healthy eating plan.

Wine and Beverage Pairings

The creamy, savory notes of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup shine when paired with crisp, refreshing beverages that cleanse the palate. A medium-bodied white wine like Chardonnay, which balances creaminess with bright acidity, complements this soup beautifully.

If you prefer reds, a light Pinot Noir or Gamay brings fruity undertones that play nicely with both cheddar and bacon. Beer lovers will appreciate the contrast of a citrusy pale ale or lager, offering enough bitterness to cut through the richness.

For a non-alcoholic pairing, a sparkling apple cider or a classic lemonade provides a sweet-tart balance that keeps the meal feeling light and fresh.

Cooking Tips and Variations

To ensure your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup turns out creamy and flavorful every time, keep a few helpful tips in mind. First, use high-quality smoked bacon as it infuses the base with deep, savory flavor.

If you prefer a lighter version, opt for turkey bacon or even omit the bacon for a vegetarian adaptation – just add a tablespoon of olive oil to sauté the vegetables. Homemade gnocchi brings extra tenderness, but store-bought varieties work wonderfully and save time.

Stir in the gnocchi gently; overcooking can make them mushy. If you prefer a thicker soup, mash a few gnocchi pieces with the back of a spoon before adding the cheese.

For extra richness, replace half of the half and half with heavy cream, or for a lighter touch, substitute with whole milk. Amplify the vegetable content by adding chopped kale, mushrooms, or diced bell peppers.

For a touch of heat, a pinch of red pepper flakes or hot sauce complements the smoky bacon well. Gluten-free gnocchi are a seamless substitution for those with dietary restrictions. Always shred your cheese from the block to prevent clumping and ensure a smoother soup.

Let the soup sit for 5-10 minutes after removing from heat to allow the flavors to meld before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is delicious as both a main course and a hearty starter. Serve it in deep, wide bowls to allow for generous scoops of gnocchi, making each bite abundant with toppings and creamy broth.

This soup pairs perfectly with rustic sides like grilled sourdough, garlic bread, or freshly baked focaccia, each providing a satisfying vehicle for soaking up every last drop.

For a more complete meal, pair the soup with a vibrant side salad—think peppery arugula with cherry tomatoes and a light vinaigrette or a classic Caesar. For entertaining, serve mini portions of this soup in mugs or small bowls as an appetizer at dinner parties or holiday gatherings.

Garnish generously with crumbled bacon, sliced green onions, and extra cheddar cheese shavings to make each bowl visually appealing. Leftovers make a cozy lunch, and the flavors deepen with time, making this a practical make-ahead dish.

Always serve the soup piping hot, and offer extra cracked black pepper and hot sauce at the table for those who enjoy an extra kick.

Health Benefits

Despite its decadent, creamy texture, Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup can offer some nutritional benefits. The addition of carrots, celery, and spinach infuses the soup with essential vitamins A, C, and K, supporting immune health and vision.

The base of half and half, along with cheddar and Parmesan, provides a substantial amount of calcium, vital for bone health. Lean proteins from milk, cheese, and bacon contribute to muscle repair and satiety. Use of potato gnocchi adds potassium and fiber, important for maintaining healthy blood pressure and digestion.

Opting for low-sodium broth and reduced-fat cheese can help manage sodium and saturated fat levels. Spinach is especially notable for iron and folate, aiding energy levels and overall vitality.

For those seeking to make this soup lighter, swapping cream for whole milk, sautéing in olive oil rather than bacon fat, and using turkey bacon can decrease the calorie content while retaining much of the flavor.

As with any rich dish, enjoy in moderation as part of a balanced diet to maximize both enjoyment and health benefits.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, this soup reheats very well. Prepare it up to two days ahead, store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator, and gently reheat on the stove over medium heat. If the soup thickens too much, simply add a splash of broth or milk to restore its creamy consistency.

It is best enjoyed fresh or refrigerated for up to three days. Freezing is not recommended, as dairy-based soups can separate upon thawing and gnocchi may become overly soft. If you must freeze, do so before adding the gnocchi and cheese, and add them fresh when reheating.

To adapt the recipe for vegetarians, omit the bacon and use a tablespoon of olive oil to sauté the vegetables instead. Choose a quality vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. The cheddar cheese and gnocchi provide plenty of flavor and heartiness.

Shelf-stable potato gnocchi are convenient and widely available, but you can also use homemade gnocchi if you have the time. For gluten-free needs, select gnocchi labeled gluten-free, as traditional recipes include wheat flour.

While pre-shredded cheese can be used in a pinch, freshly shredded cheddar melts more smoothly and prevents a grainy texture. Pre-shredded varieties often contain anti-caking agents that may affect the soup’s creaminess.

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a modern comfort classic that unites bold, smoky, and cheesy flavors with the pillowy softness of gnocchi in one irresistible bowl. This recipe is adaptable to personal preferences and dietary needs while remaining easy enough for weeknight dinners and special occasions alike. Paired with simple sides, it creates a satisfying meal that is both nourishing and indulgent. Next time you crave the ultimate in creamy, hearty soups, remember this recipe for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup—it is sure to become a staple in your kitchen, delivering warmth, flavor, and coziness every time.

★★★★★ 4.60 from 6 ratings

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup

yield: 4 servings

prep: 15 mins

cook: 25 mins

total: 40 mins

A rich and comforting soup featuring pillowy gnocchi, crispy bacon, sharp cheddar cheese, and a creamy broth—perfect for cozy dinners.

🖨️ Print Pin Recipe

Ingredients

• 6 slices bacon, chopped
• 1 small onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup heavy cream
• 16 oz potato gnocchi
• 2 cups shredded sharp cheddar cheese
• 1 cup baby spinach
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. 1
   In a large pot over medium heat, cook the chopped bacon until crispy. Remove bacon with a slotted spoon and set aside, leaving about 1 tablespoon of bacon fat in the pot.
2. 2
   Add diced onion to the pot and sauté until softened, about 3 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute more.
3. 3
   Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer. Add gnocchi and cook according to package directions, about 3 to 4 minutes, until they float to the top.
4. 4
   Reduce heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Stir until the cheese is fully melted and the soup is creamy.
5. 5
   Add baby spinach, cooked bacon, and season with salt and pepper to taste. Allow spinach to wilt for 1 to 2 minutes.
6. 6
   Serve hot, garnished with extra cheddar cheese or bacon if desired.

CLICK FOR NUTRITION INFO ↑

Approximate Information for One Serving

Serving Size: 1 serving

Calories: 540 caloriescal

Protein: 20gg

Fat: 34gg

Saturated Fat: 0g

Trans Fat: 0g

Cholesterol: 0mg

Sodium: 0mg

Potassium: 0mg

Total Carbs: 39gg

Fiber: 0g

Sugar: 0g

Net Carbs: 0g

Vitamin A: 0

Vitamin C: 0mg

Calcium: 0mg

Iron: 0mg

Nutrition Disclaimers

Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.

Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.

To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.

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