Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a delicious, cozy delight that warms both the heart and the soul. The thick, creamy texture, paired with the smoky aroma of crispy bacon and the rich flavor of cheddar, creates an irresistible dish perfect for any chilly day. This soup brings together seasonal ingredients in an easy-to-make recipe that marries comfort with sustainability. It’s hearty, filling, and captures the essence of cozy nights in or casual gatherings with friends. Get ready to dive into a bowl of goodness that’s as special as it is satisfying! Find more comfort food ideas here: Chicken Cheddar Broccoli Soup.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is your go-to dish for gatherings, cozy nights, or when the weather turns chilly. It offers a comforting flavor that makes it ideal for holidays or after long days. With its creamy blend of gnocchi and cheddar, plus the crunch of bacon, each bite is a burst of flavor. Not only is this recipe convenient—it comes together in one pot—but it’s also versatile. You can enjoy it as a main dish or as a starter before a larger meal. For more ideas on cozy and comforting recipes, check out Ground Beef Vegetable Soup Recipe.
Seasonal Ingredients Spotlight
In this dish, the rich and buttery flavors of seasonal ingredients shine through. Fresh carrots add a sweet crunch, while the earthy aroma of thyme mingles with the savory scent of onions being sautéed. The vibrant colors of the vegetables create a beautiful contrast against the creamy base, making this soup visually appealing. Each spoonful not only tastes wonderful but reassures you of the sustainability and health benefits of using fresh, local products during the harvest season.
What You’ll Need
- 8-10 slices Bacon – thick-cut recommended
- 1 Tablespoon Butter or Olive Oil
- 1 large Onion (diced)
- 2 large Carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 4 cups Chicken Broth – use quality chicken broth for best flavor
- 1-2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (or 4 cloves minced garlic)
- 1/4 teaspoon Dried Thyme
- 1/2-1 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes
- 16 ounces Gnocchi
- 2 cups Heavy Cream or Half-n-Half
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (grated)
Feel free to substitute the bacon with turkey bacon or the cream with a non-dairy alternative for a lighter option. Fresh herbs can replace dried ones for a burst of flavor, and gluten-free gnocchi works great for dietary needs!
How to Make This Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Base
Start by cooking the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. The delightful aroma of sizzling bacon fills the kitchen, setting a comforting mood. Once crisp, remove the bacon and drain excess fat, leaving about a tablespoon in the pot.
Step 2: Sauté the Vegetables
In the same pot, add butter or olive oil, and sauté the diced onions and sliced carrots. Stir for about 5-7 minutes until they’re soft and aromatic. The onions should turn translucent, and the carrots will begin to soften.
Step 3: Combine Broth and Seasoning
Pour in the chicken broth, then add salt, pepper, garlic, thyme, and red chili flakes. Bring this mixture to a boil, stirring occasionally, for about 10 minutes. The broth should start to bubble and release enticing scents.
Step 4: Add Gnocchi and Cream
Stir in the gnocchi and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes until tender. Follow this by adding heavy cream and allowing it to simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes. The soup should thicken beautifully and take on a creamy consistency.
Step 5: Finish and Garnish
Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted. Crumble the cooked bacon on top for that final touch. The soup should be rich and creamy with a gooey, cheesy layer.
Step 6: Serve and Enjoy
Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy immediately, relishing the rich flavors and textures as they blend harmoniously with each spoonful.
Essential Tools
- Large pot – Dutch oven recommended
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Ladle for serving
These tools are typically found in most kitchens, ensuring you can whip up this recipe with ease!
Meal Prep & Storage Tips
This soup is perfect for make-ahead meals. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers. Simply reheat on the stove; you might want to add a splash of cream to refresh the texture!
Perfect Pairings
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup pairs well with fresh bread or a light salad for a balanced meal. Consider serving it alongside a crisp green salad drizzled with balsamic vinaigrette or with buttered garlic bread for a comforting touch. Pairing it with a nice white wine can enhance the experience, making it perfect for gatherings or special occasions. For more bread ideas, try our Healthy Banana Bread Recipe.
Nutrition Facts
| Nutrient | Per Serving |
| Calories | ~480 kcal |
| Fat | 28 g |
| Carbohydrates | 38 g |
| Protein | 18 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 6 g |
| Sodium | 980 mg |
Avoid These Common Pitfalls
When making Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup, avoid letting the cream boil vigorously—it can curdle. Also, ensure that the gnocchi is cooked just right, as overcooking can lead to a mushy texture. If the soup is too thick, simply add a bit more chicken broth or cream until you achieve the desired consistency.
Pro Tips for Best Results
- For extra flavor, consider adding a touch of smoked paprika or fresh herbs at the end of cooking.
- Be cautious not to overcook the vegetables; they should retain some crunch for a delightful texture contrast.
- A sprinkle of freshly cracked black pepper just before serving can elevate the flavor.
- Use freshly grated cheddar instead of pre-shredded for better melting and creamier texture.
Recipe Variations to Explore
Feel free to experiment with different proteins like shrimp or chicken for variation. Consider adding seasonal vegetables like spinach or kale for added nutrition. For a spicy kick, try adding diced jalapeños or a dash of your favorite hot sauce. You might also enjoy our Bang Bang Chicken Casserole for another comforting dish.
Dietary Adaptations & Safety Info
For those with dietary restrictions, opt for turkey bacon or a plant-based alternative to make the soup suitable for a variety of diets. Substituting the cream for coconut milk can easily create a dairy-free option. Always read labels to ensure gluten-free ingredients if necessary. When storing, cool soup completely before refrigerating to prevent bacterial growth.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this soup vegan?
Yes! Substitute the bacon with smoked tofu, use vegetable broth, and replace cream with coconut cream. Use vegan cheese alternatives for the cheddar.
How long can I store leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days or frozen for up to three months. Thaw overnight in refrigerator before reheating.
Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Absolutely! Just add them directly to the soup without thawing. Cook time may increase by 1-2 minutes.
Is this soup gluten-free?
If you use gluten-free gnocchi, the soup can be gluten-free. Always check labels on broth and other ingredients.
How can I make this soup spicy?
Add extra red chili flakes or diced jalapeños during cooking for a spicy kick. You can also stir in hot sauce at the end.
Can I make this soup in a slow cooker?
Yes! Cook bacon separately, then add all ingredients except cream, cheese, and gnocchi to slow cooker. Cook on low 6-8 hours. Add gnocchi, cream, and cheese last 30 minutes of cooking.
Final Thoughts & Next Steps
With its creamy texture and rich flavors, Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is sure to be a hit in your household. Don’t hesitate to share your thoughts or variations in the comments! For more cozy recipes, check out our Easy Dessert Recipes or explore our collection of comforting soups like Slow Cooker Beef Stew. Ready to cook? Let’s go!
Last Updated: November 14, 2025 | Recipe tested and perfected for optimal flavor and texture.
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
A cozy and delicious soup combining crispy bacon, rich cheddar cheese, and tender gnocchi for a comforting meal perfect for chilly days.
For the Soup Base
- 8-10 slices Bacon (Can substitute with turkey bacon for a lighter option.)
- 1 tablespoon Butter or Olive Oil
- 1 large Onion (diced)
- 2 large Carrots (peeled and sliced)
- 4 cups Chicken Broth (Can use vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.)
- 1-2 teaspoons Salt
- 1 teaspoon Pepper
- 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (or 4 cloves minced garlic)
- 1/4 teaspoon Dried Thyme (Fresh herbs can be used for better flavor.)
- 1/2-1 teaspoon Red Chili Flakes (Adjust for spice preference.)
For the Remaining Ingredients
- 16 ounces Gnocchi (Gluten-free gnocchi can be used.)
- 2 cups Heavy Cream or Half-n-Half (Coconut milk can be a dairy-free alternative.)
- 2 cups Cheddar Cheese (grated)
Preparation
- Cook the bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crispy. Remove the bacon and drain excess fat, leaving about a tablespoon in the pot.
Sautéing the Vegetables
- In the same pot, add butter or olive oil, and sauté the diced onions and sliced carrots for about 5-7 minutes until soft and aromatic.
Combining Broth and Seasoning
- Pour in the chicken broth, add salt, pepper, garlic, thyme, and red chili flakes. Bring it to a boil, stirring occasionally for about 10 minutes.
Cooking the Gnocchi and Cream
- Stir in the gnocchi and cook for an additional 3-4 minutes. Add heavy cream and allow it to simmer on low heat for another 5 minutes.
Finishing Touches
- Stir in the grated cheddar cheese until melted, and crumble the cooked bacon on top.
Serving
- Ladle the soup into bowls and enjoy immediately.
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe containers. Reheat on the stove, adding a splash of cream to refresh the texture.
