Discover the Joy of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup brings a cozy touch to your meal time. This delicious soup combines the richness of bacon and cheese with the soft, chewy texture of gnocchi. It’s a comforting dish perfect for chilly evenings or anytime you want to treat yourself.
What Makes This Recipe Worth Trying
You will absolutely love this recipe because it’s a full meal in a bowl! The combination of crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and tender gnocchi creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Plus, it’s easy to make and can gather your loved ones around the table for a warm, hearty dinner that feels like a big hug.
How to Prepare Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients:
- 8-10 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1-2 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder (or 4 cloves minced garlic)
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
- ½-1 tsp red chili flakes (optional)
- 16 oz gnocchi
- 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp)
Directions:
- Begin by cooking the bacon until it’s crispy. Chop it up and set it aside for later.
- In a large pot, heat the butter or olive oil. Sauté the diced onions and sliced carrots until they are tender, which should take about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it all to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream, along with the seasonings and shredded cheese. Keep stirring until the cheese is well melted.
- Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook for about 2 minutes or until they are soft.
- Fold in the crispy bacon, adjust the seasoning as needed, and serve hot.
Serving Suggestions for Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
This soup is delicious on its own, but you can elevate your meal by pairing it with warm, crusty bread or a fresh salad. For a splash of color, consider garnishing with fresh herbs or extra cheese.
Storing Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
If you have leftovers, store the soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Since gnocchi can become soft and mushy over time, it’s best to eat the soup sooner rather than later.
Handy Tips for Making the Best Soup
- To save time, you can use pre-cooked bacon or bacon bits.
- Experiment with different types of cheese for unique flavors. Gruyère or mozzarella can be great alternatives.
- Adjust the spice level by increasing or omitting the red chili flakes based on your preference.
Variations You Can Try
Feel free to add different vegetables! Spinach or kale can make a healthy addition to your soup. If you like it heartier, consider throwing in some cooked chicken or sausage.
Nutritional Information
While specific values can vary, a serving of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup generally includes round 400-500 calories, depending on portion size and ingredients used.
Serving Ideas for Family
This soup is perfect for family gatherings. Serve it with a side of garlic bread and a light green salad for a balanced meal that everyone will enjoy.
Pairing Suggestions
Consider pairing this comforting soup with a light white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or just enjoy it with your favorite soft drink.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I freeze Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup?
A: Freezing is not recommended due to the gnocchi, which can become mushy upon thawing. It’s best enjoyed fresh!
Q: Can I make this soup vegetarian?
A: Absolutely! Simply skip the bacon and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Q: How can I make this soup lighter?
A: You can use low-fat milk or a lighter cream, and reduce the amount of cheese to make it a bit healthier.
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is sure to be a new favorite in your kitchen. With its creamy texture and rich flavor, this soup is both filling and satisfying, making it a perfect choice for any meal! Enjoy making and sharing it with those you love.
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8-10 slices bacon, cooked and chopped Use crispy bacon for best flavor.
- 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth Vegetable broth can be used for a vegetarian version.
- 1-2 tsp salt Adjust to taste.
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder Or use 4 cloves of minced garlic.
- ¼ tsp dried thyme
- ½-1 tsp red chili flakes Optional, adjust for spice preference.
- 16 oz gnocchi Cooked until tender.
- 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half For a lighter version, use low-fat milk.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese Medium or sharp, adjust to taste.
Instructions
Cooking
- Cook the bacon until crispy, chop it, and set it aside.
- In a large pot, heat the butter or olive oil. Sauté the diced onions and sliced carrots until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream, seasonings, and shredded cheese until the cheese is melted.
- Add the gnocchi and cook for about 2 minutes, until soft.
- Fold in the crispy bacon and adjust seasoning if needed. Serve hot.
