When the weather cools, nothing feels more comforting than a warm bowl of Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup. It’s creamy, cheesy, and filled with pillowy gnocchi that melt into every bite. This recipe is the ultimate cold-weather hug; a savory blend of smoky bacon, sharp cheddar, and soft potato dumplings that come together in minutes. Inspired by classic Italian soups like the Italian Penicillin Soup, this version brings a heartier twist perfect for weeknights or cozy gatherings. Whether you’re cooking for family or just yourself, this Gnocchi Soup delivers flavor, comfort, and ease in one pot.
Table of Contents
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
I’m Grace, the cook, the writer, and the soul behind Homely Tasty. I grew up in a kitchen filled with the scent of garlic, basil, and sweet tomatoes; the kind of smells that clung to your clothes and comforted your spirit. That kitchen belonged to my nonna, my grandmother from Sicily. She taught me that food was never about perfection, but care. Her wooden spoon, her slow simmered sauces, her belief that every meal could bring people together, they’ve all shaped how I cook today. This Gnocchi Soup carries her spirit: simple, soulful, and always shared with love.
This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is everything you crave when you need a little warmth and indulgence. It’s rich yet simple, loaded with real ingredients that don’t require hours in the kitchen. The crispy bacon adds texture and depth, while the creamy cheddar base makes every spoonful decadent. Plus, it’s one of those dishes that tastes even better the next day, thickening into a luscious meal all on its own.
For more cozy soup ideas, try my Broccoli Cheddar Soup, another creamy classic you’ll love.
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Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
A creamy, cheesy comfort soup made with smoky bacon, tender gnocchi, and sharp cheddar. Perfect for cozy nights.
- Total Time: 30 mins
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
1 lb potato gnocchi
4 cups chicken broth
1 ½ cups shredded cheddar cheese
1 cup half-and-half or heavy cream
1 small onion, diced
3 cloves garlic, minced
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
1. Cook bacon in a large pot until crisp. Remove and set aside.
2. In the same pot, sauté onion and garlic in bacon grease until soft.
3. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle boil.
4. Add gnocchi and cook until tender, about 3–4 minutes.
5. Lower heat and stir in cream and cheddar cheese until melted.
6. Return bacon to the pot, season with salt and pepper.
7. Simmer for a few minutes and serve hot.
Notes
For extra depth, use smoked cheddar or add chopped spinach.
The soup thickens beautifully when reheated the next day.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Soups
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl
- Calories: 420
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 720mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 12g
- Unsaturated Fat: 9g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 32g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 18g
- Cholesterol: 70mg
Ingredients
You don’t need fancy ingredients to make this Gnocchi Soup, just a few pantry staples and quality cheese.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Turkey Bacon | 6 slices, chopped |
| Potato Gnocchi | 1 pound (shelf-stable or fresh) |
| Chicken broth | 4 cups |
| Cheddar cheese (shredded) | 1 ½ cups |
| Half-and-half or heavy cream | 1 cup |
| Garlic | 3 cloves, minced |
| Onion | 1 small, diced |
| Salt & pepper | To taste |
For a Southern-inspired twist, pair it with this Cajun Potato Soup that shares a similar creamy base but a bold, spicy kick.
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Start by cooking bacon in a large pot over medium heat until crisp. Remove and set aside, keeping a bit of bacon grease for flavor. In the same pot, sauté onions and garlic until fragrant. Add chicken broth, bring to a simmer, then stir in gnocchi and cook until soft; about 3–4 minutes. Stir in cream and cheddar cheese until smooth. Finally, crumble the bacon back in and season to taste.
The result? A velvety, cheesy soup that’s hearty enough for dinner. If you love gnocchi-based dishes, try the lighter Gnocchi with Spinach and Feta next; it’s a fresh take on an Italian favorite.
Tips and Variations
- Use smoked cheddar for an even richer flavor.
- Add chopped spinach or kale for color and nutrients.
- Substitute heavy cream with coconut milk for a lighter, dairy-free option.
- Make it ahead and refrigerate; it thickens beautifully overnight.
If you enjoy slow-cooked flavors, my Crockpot Chicken Corn Chowder is another creamy winner worth bookmarking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use store-bought gnocchi?
Yes, both fresh and shelf-stable gnocchi work well in this recipe.
How do I keep the soup from getting too thick?
Add extra broth or a splash of milk when reheating.
Can I freeze Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup?
It’s best enjoyed fresh, but you can freeze it for up to a month. Reheat slowly to prevent the dairy from separating.
What cheese pairs best with bacon?
Sharp cheddar is classic, but gouda or fontina are great options too.
For another cozy, cheesy bowl, check out my Crockpot Cheeseburger Soup Recipe.
Final Thoughts
This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is the definition of comfort food. Creamy, cheesy, and perfectly smoky, it transforms simple ingredients into something extraordinary. It’s an easy weeknight favorite that feels like a restaurant-quality meal. Serve it with crusty bread or a side of Rosemary Garlic Mashed Potatoes for the ultimate cozy dinner.
Loved this recipe? Follow me on Pinterest for more comforting dishes and easy weeknight favorites you’ll want to save.
