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Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup – Creamy, Cheesy & Cozy Comfort Food

There’s nothing quite like a steaming bowl of soup when you’re craving comfort. This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup (with beef bacon or turkey bacon as a substitute) is the ultimate cozy, cheesy, and hearty meal. The creamy broth is infused with garlic, thyme, and chili flakes, then loaded with pillowy gnocchi, carrots, onion, and melted cheddar cheese. Topped with crispy, smoky beef bacon bits, it’s rich, satisfying, and perfect for cold nights or whenever you want a big bowl of comfort. Best of all, this soup comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings. Pair it with crusty bread, and you’ve got a restaurant-worthy meal right at home.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 6 bowls
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Protein:
  • 8 slices beef bacon or turkey bacon cooked and chopped
Vegetables & Aromatics:
  • 2 large carrots peeled and diced
  • 1 large onion diced
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • ½ tsp red chili flakes
  • ¼ tsp dried thyme
Pasta:
  • 16 oz gnocchi fresh, frozen, or packaged
Liquids:
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
Dairy:
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese medium or sharp
Seasonings & Fat:
  • 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • 1 tsp salt adjust to taste
  • 1 tsp black pepper

Equipment

  • Large soup pot or Dutch oven
  • Wooden spoon or ladle
  • Cutting board and sharp knife
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Cheese grater
  • Small skillet (for cooking bacon substitute)

Method
 

Step 1: Cook the Bacon Substitute
  1. In a skillet, cook beef bacon or turkey bacon until crispy.
  2. Transfer to a paper towel-lined plate, then chop into bite-size pieces.
Step 2: Sauté Vegetables
  1. In a large soup pot, heat butter or olive oil over medium heat.
  2. Add diced onion and carrots. Cook for 5–6 minutes until softened.
  3. Stir in garlic powder, thyme, and chili flakes. Cook for 1 more minute.
Step 3: Add Broth & Simmer
  1. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
  2. Cook for 8–10 minutes until carrots are tender.
Step 4: Add Gnocchi
  1. Stir in gnocchi and cook according to package directions (about 3–5 minutes for fresh, longer if frozen).
Step 5: Add Cream & Cheese
  1. Lower heat and stir in heavy cream.
  2. Gradually add shredded cheddar cheese, stirring until melted and creamy.
Step 6: Add Bacon Substitute
  1. Stir most of the crispy bacon pieces into the soup, reserving a few for garnish.
Step 7: Season & Serve
  1. Taste and adjust with salt and pepper.
  2. Ladle soup into bowls, garnish with extra bacon bits and shredded cheese.
  3. Serve hot with crusty bread.

Notes

🧊 Storage & Reheating
Refrigerator: Store in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze without the gnocchi (they can get mushy). Add fresh gnocchi when reheating. Keeps up to 2 months.
Reheating: Warm on stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or cream if needed.
🥄 Variations
Vegetarian Version: Skip bacon and add sautéed mushrooms for umami flavor.
Extra Veggies: Add spinach, zucchini, or broccoli florets.
Spicy Kick: Increase chili flakes or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Lightened Up: Use half-and-half instead of cream and reduced-fat cheese.
Gluten-Free: Use gluten-free gnocchi and ensure broth is gluten-free.
❓ 10 FAQs
Can I use potato gnocchi or cauliflower gnocchi?
Yes, both work well! Cauliflower gnocchi is a great low-carb option.
Can I use milk instead of cream?
You can, but the soup won’t be as thick or rich. Half-and-half is a better substitute.
What’s the best cheese to use?
Sharp cheddar for bold flavor, or mix cheddar with Gruyère for extra depth.
Can I make this soup ahead of time?
Yes, but cook gnocchi fresh before serving for best texture.
Is this soup spicy?
It’s mildly spicy from chili flakes, but you can adjust to taste.
Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, for a lighter vegetarian-friendly base.
Do I need to thicken the soup with flour?
No, the cheese and cream naturally thicken the broth.
Can I use turkey bacon instead of beef bacon?
Absolutely—it works perfectly and keeps things lean.
How can I make this soup lower in calories?
Use turkey bacon, half-and-half, and reduced-fat cheddar.
What sides pair best with this soup?
Crusty bread, garlic knots, or a fresh green salad.
🏁 Conclusion
This Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is pure comfort in a bowl—creamy, cheesy, and loaded with hearty gnocchi and crispy bacon (using beef or turkey for a delicious substitute). It’s quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknights, and customizable enough for any taste preference.
Once you try it, you’ll want to make it again and again whenever the craving for cozy comfort food strikes.