Description
This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food, combining crispy bacon, soft gnocchi, and a creamy cheddar broth for a cozy meal perfect for cold nights.
Ingredients
Units
Scale
Main Ingredients
- 6 to 8 slices Bacon (Choose thin or thick cut based on preference.)
- 1 small onion, diced
- 2 medium carrots, diced small
- 2 to 3 cloves garlic, minced (Add near the end to prevent burning.)
- 4 cups chicken broth or veggie broth (Use low-sodium if preferred.)
- 1 cup heavy cream or half and half
- 8 ounces sharp cheddar cheese, freshly grated (Grate yourself for best texture.)
- 1 pound potato gnocchi (Shelf stable or refrigerated gnocchi works.)
- to taste Salt and black pepper (Adjust based on taste.)
Optional Seasonings
- to taste paprika
- to taste mustard powder
- a pinch cayenne (For heat.)
Thickener (if needed)
- 1-2 tablespoons flour or cornstarch slurry (Use if you want a thicker consistency.)
Instructions
Cooking the Bacon
- Start with a cold pot, add the bacon and turn the heat to medium. Cook until crisp and deeply golden, then set aside.
Building the Soup Base
- In the remaining bacon fat, add diced onion and carrot, cooking until soft. Add minced garlic towards the end.
- Pour in the chicken or veggie broth, scraping up browned bits from the pot. Let it simmer for a few minutes.
Adding Cream and Cheese
- Stir in the heavy cream and pepper. Gradually add the cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and smooth.
Cooking the Gnocchi
- Add gnocchi to the soup and cook for about 3-5 minutes, or until gnocchi float and are tender.
Finishing Touches
- Stir in the crispy bacon, reserving some for topping if desired. Serve immediately.
Notes
For best results, avoid boiling the soup once cream and cheese are added. If the soup thickens too much after storage, add a splash of broth or milk when reheating.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Soup
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Calories: 450
- Sugar: 5
- Sodium: 800
- Fat: 25
- Saturated Fat: 12
- Carbohydrates: 40
- Fiber: 2
- Protein: 20
