Rich Creamy Bacon Cheddar Soup

When the air starts to chill and you crave something extra soul-warming this bacon cheddar gnocchi soup always delivers. With soft potato gnocchi nestled in a velvety cheddar broth and smoky bacon laced throughout it is a weeknight crowd-pleaser that feels both hearty and luxurious. I reach for this recipe when the craving for pure comfort strikes and want to make a meal that brings everyone to the table.

Every bowl brings back memories of making this for my friends on game nights when we wanted something easy but indulgent. The first spoonful usually has everyone asking for seconds.

Gather Your Ingredients

• Bacon: choose thick cut if possible for the best flavor and crisp bite
• Butter or olive oil: butter gives richness but olive oil makes it a bit lighter
• Large onion: diced finely so it disappears into the soup enhancing the umami
• Carrots: peeled and sliced they add sweetness and a pop of color
• Chicken broth: look for low sodium to control salt or use homemade for even better flavor
• Salt and black pepper: foundational seasonings for perfect balance
• Garlic powder or fresh garlic: either boosts aromatic depth use fresh for sharper punch
• Red chili flakes (optional): adds gentle heat for those who love a kick
• Gnocchi: tender potato dumplings sold fresh or shelf stable can be found near pasta
• Heavy cream or half-and-half: makes the soup decadently creamy half-and-half is lighter
• Shredded cheddar cheese: medium or sharp cheese gives bold flavor and lovely melt opt for block cheese you grate yourself for best results

How to Make It

Cook the Bacon:

Cook bacon over medium heat until crispy and golden brown. Drain excess fat and chop into bite-size pieces. This step builds the deep savory backbone of your soup.

Sauté the Vegetables:

In a large soup pot heat butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onion and sliced carrots then cook for at least 10 minutes stirring often until onions are translucent and sweetly fragrant. This allows natural sugars to develop for a delicious base.

Simmer with the Broth:

Pour in chicken broth and increase heat to bring the liquid to a gentle simmer. Simmering the vegetables in broth draws out their flavors and sets the foundation for a rich soup.

Stir in Cream and Cheese:

Lower the heat and add heavy cream all seasonings and shredded cheddar cheese one handful at a time. Stir continuously until the cheese melts smoothly into the soup transforming it into a creamy cheddar broth.

Add the Gnocchi:

Add in the gnocchi and cook for about 2 minutes or until the gnocchi rise to the top and are pillowy soft. They absorb the flavors beautifully and become an integral part of the soup.

Finish and Serve:

Stir in chopped bacon at the end so it stays crisp. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed with extra salt or black pepper. Serve hot for the creamiest texture and best experience.

Sharp cheddar is the ingredient that always stands out for me the way it melts into the broth feels like restaurant-level magic in your own kitchen. My son still remembers making this together for the first time and sneaking extra bacon into his bowl while it cooked.

Flavor Boosters

Stir in spinach or kale near the end for a hit of green. Roasted corn adds sweetness and color if you have it on hand. Try swapping carrots for butternut squash for a fall spin. A pinch of smoked paprika stirred in with the seasonings gives a subtle smoky note that lingers beautifully.

Serving Suggestions

This soup loves a side of crusty bread or soft garlic rolls. Fresh chives or green onions sprinkled on top add bright color and mild sharpness. A quick green salad balances the richness perfectly.

Creative Twists

No bacon on hand smoked turkey or even plant-based bacon will provide that savory note. You can swap out cheddar for gouda colby or Monterey Jack depending on what cheese you have. For a lighter version use evaporated milk instead of cream. To freeze make the base with all ingredients except the gnocchi and dairy components. Cool and freeze in portions. When ready to eat thaw reheat and add gnocchi and cream fresh for perfect texture.

This soup is now a family tradition every time the temperatures drop. Friends have asked for this recipe over and over after cozy gatherings at my place.

Common Questions About This Recipe

→ What type of cheese works best for this dish?

Sharp or medium cheddar cheese melts beautifully, providing a rich flavor and creamy texture essential for this dish’s signature taste.

→ Can I substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth?

Yes, vegetable broth can be used as a substitute to keep the dish lighter or to accommodate dietary preferences without sacrificing flavor.

→ How do I ensure the gnocchi is cooked perfectly?

Cook gnocchi in the simmering broth for about 2 minutes until they float and become tender, which indicates they are ready to serve.

→ Is it necessary to cook the bacon before adding it?

Cooking bacon until crispy first enhances its flavor and texture before incorporating it into the creamy gnocchi mixture.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best served fresh, but you can prepare the soup base in advance and add gnocchi and cooked bacon just before serving to maintain texture.