This creamy bacon cheddar gnocchi soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! Filled with soft gnocchi, crispy bacon, and gooey cheddar cheese, it’s super comforting on chilly days.
I love how quick and easy it is to whip up. Just cook, stir, and enjoy—no fancy skills needed! Plus, it pairs perfectly with a cozy blanket and a good movie! 🥓🧀
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: It’s best to use thick-cut bacon for a satisfying crunch. However, if you’re looking for a healthier alternative, turkey bacon or even diced ham works well!
Gnocchi: I love using store-bought gnocchi for convenience. If you’re feeling adventurous, homemade gnocchi is a fun project! You can also substitute with small pasta like orzo if gnocchi isn’t available.
Kale: This adds a nice pop of color and nutrients. If you don’t have kale on hand, spinach or Swiss chard are great substitutes. Just remember to adjust cooking time as spinach wilts faster!
Cheese: Sharp cheddar is perfect for rich flavor, but you could also use medium cheddar or a blend of cheeses like Monterey Jack if you prefer a milder taste.
How Do I Get My Soup Creamy Without Lumps?
Getting a smooth, creamy texture is all about how you mix your ingredients. After you sauté the onion and garlic, sprinkle the flour evenly and stir continuously to avoid clumps. Make sure to whisk in the chicken broth slowly, allowing it to mix well with the flour.
- Cook the flour for a couple of minutes before adding liquid—that helps get rid of the raw taste!
- Whisk thoroughly as you pour in the broth, ensuring no lumps form.
- When adding the cream and cheese, keep the heat low and stir constantly until melted and integrated.
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Soup Base:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 2 cups kale, chopped (stems removed)
- 2 tablespoons all-purpose flour
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme or Italian seasoning (optional)
- For the Creamy Texture:
- 1 (16 oz) package gnocchi
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 2 cups sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
- 1/2 cup milk (optional, for adjusting consistency)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful soup takes about 30-35 minutes in total. You’ll spend about 10-15 minutes on prep, while cooking will only take around 20 minutes. It’s a quick and comforting meal perfect for any day of the week!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it becomes crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon and let it drain on paper towels. Keep about 1 to 2 tablespoons of the bacon fat in the pot to add flavor to the soup.
2. Sauté the Veggies:
Add the chopped onion to the pot and sauté in the remaining bacon fat until the onion turns translucent and soft, which should take about 4-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until it’s fragrant.
3. Thicken the Base:
Sprinkle the all-purpose flour over the softened onions and garlic. Stir the mixture constantly for 1-2 minutes to cook off the raw flour flavor, creating a nice roux that will help thicken the soup.
4. Create the Soup:
Slowly whisk in the chicken broth to avoid lumps, ensuring the flour dissolves completely. Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer for the next step.
5. Add the Gnocchi:
Carefully add the gnocchi to the simmering broth. Cook according to the package instructions—typically 2-3 minutes—until the gnocchi float to the top, indicating they are done.
6. Make it Creamy:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheddar cheese. Keep stirring gently until the cheese melts completely, making the soup wonderfully creamy.
7. Add the Greens:
Mix in the chopped kale and let it cook for another 2-3 minutes until it wilts but retains its vibrant color.
8. Season to Taste:
Season your soup with salt, freshly ground black pepper, and the optional thyme or Italian seasoning. If the soup is too thick, feel free to add a splash of milk to reach your desired consistency.
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, garnished with the reserved crispy bacon and extra shredded cheddar cheese if you’re feeling indulgent. Enjoy your warm, comforting bowl of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup!
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! While sharp cheddar cheese adds great flavor, you can use other varieties such as mild cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even a blend of cheeses. Just make sure they melt well for a creamy texture!
What If I Don’t Have Gnocchi?
No problem! You can substitute gnocchi with small pasta like orzo or even mini ravioli. Just adjust the cooking time according to the pasta package instructions for the best results!
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes, to make it vegetarian, simply omit the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can sauté the vegetables in olive oil or butter for added flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, add a splash of milk or broth to restore the creamy texture, as it may thicken in the fridge.
