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Close-up of gnocchi in creamy cheddar soup with melted cheese and bacon
Isaac blogger

Creamy Cheddar Gnocchi Soup with Crispy Bacon

This creamy cheddar gnocchi soup combines soft potato gnocchi, crispy bacon, tender vegetables, and a smooth cheesy broth for a warm, comforting meal that comes together quickly in one pot.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 6
Course: Soup / Dinner
Cuisine: Italian-American
Calories:
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 8–10 slices bacon
  • 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
  • 1 large onion, diced
  • 2 large carrots, sliced
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 16 oz potato gnocchi
  • 1–2 teaspoons salt, adjust to taste
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder or 4 minced cloves garlic
  • ½–1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • ¼–½ teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)

Method
 

  1. Before You Begin
  2. Preheat and prepare your cookware as needed. Cooking times and results may vary depending on your equipment and ingredients.
  3. Cook bacon in a large pot over medium heat for about 6–8 minutes, or until lightly crisp and browned at the edges. Transfer to a plate and chop when cool.
  4. Add butter if needed, then add onion and carrots. Cook 8–12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until onions are translucent and carrots are tender when pierced with a fork.
  5. Pour in broth and bring to a gentle simmer for 3–5 minutes.
  6. Reduce heat to low. Stir in cream, salt, pepper, garlic, thyme, and chili flakes. Keep heat low to prevent separation.
  7. Add cheddar gradually, stirring continuously until melted and smooth. Soup should look creamy and slightly thickened.
  8. Add gnocchi and cook about 2–3 minutes, or until soft and tender. Gnocchi will float when done.
  9. Stir in chopped bacon. Taste and adjust seasoning. Serve warm.

Notes

  • Keep heat low after adding dairy to prevent curdling.
  • Add cheese gradually while stirring to maintain a smooth texture.
  • Simmer gently; avoid boiling once cream or cheese is added.
  • Stir occasionally to ensure even heating and prevent sticking.
  • Refrigerate leftovers promptly and reheat gently until warmed through.