Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is the ultimate comfort food—rich, creamy, and loaded with bold flavor. Crispy bacon, pillowy potato gnocchi, and sharp cheddar cheese come together in a velvety broth that’s both hearty and satisfying. It’s perfect for chilly nights or anytime you’re craving something indulgent and cozy.

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

bacon (thick-cut preferred)
yellow onion
garlic
carrots
celery
chicken broth
heavy cream
potato gnocchi
sharp cheddar cheese (freshly shredded)
salt
black pepper
paprika
olive oil
fresh parsley (for garnish)

directions

In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until crispy. Remove with a slotted spoon and set aside, reserving a tablespoon of the bacon grease in the pot.

Add a splash of olive oil if needed, then sauté the diced onion, carrots, and celery in the bacon grease until soft, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.

Add the gnocchi and cook according to package instructions, usually about 3-5 minutes, until they float to the top.

Reduce heat and stir in the heavy cream, shredded cheddar, paprika, salt, and pepper.

Simmer gently until the cheese is fully melted and the soup thickens slightly, about 5-7 minutes.

Stir in the cooked bacon, reserving some for garnish.

Ladle into bowls and garnish with parsley and extra bacon bits.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 6 servings.
Preparation time: 10 minutes
Cooking time: 25 minutes
Total time: 35 minutes

Variations

Add cooked shredded chicken or rotisserie chicken for extra protein.
Use half-and-half instead of heavy cream for a lighter version.
Substitute smoked gouda or gruyère for a flavor twist.
Add a dash of hot sauce or crushed red pepper for heat.

storage/reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of broth or milk if it thickens too much.
Freezing is not recommended, as the gnocchi may become mushy.

FAQs

Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, packaged potato gnocchi works perfectly in this recipe.

Do I have to use heavy cream?
Heavy cream adds richness, but you can use milk or half-and-half for a lighter version.

Can I make it vegetarian?
Skip the bacon and use vegetable broth. Add more veggies or a meat substitute if desired.

What kind of cheese is best?
Sharp cheddar is ideal, but feel free to experiment with white cheddar, Colby Jack, or smoked cheese.

How do I thicken the soup?
The starch from the gnocchi helps thicken the soup naturally, but you can simmer a bit longer or add a slurry if needed.

Can I make it in advance?
Yes, but for best texture, cook the gnocchi just before serving if making ahead.

Conclusion

Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a soul-warming, one-pot meal that’s both rich and comforting. With its creamy base, smoky bacon, and cheesy goodness, it’s guaranteed to become a staple in your cold-weather cooking rotation. Cozy up with a bowl and let it warm you from the inside out.