Creamy Turkey Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi (Print-Friendly Version)

Indulge in creamy turkey bacon, cheddar, and gnocchi paired with tender vegetables for cozy flavor.

# Ingredients You’ll Need:

→ Main

01 - 6 slices turkey bacon, chopped
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 1 small onion, diced
04 - 2 cloves garlic, minced
05 - 2 medium carrots, peeled and sliced
06 - 2 stalks celery, sliced
07 - 4 cups low-sodium chicken broth
08 - 1 cup half-and-half
09 - 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
10 - 16 ounces potato gnocchi
11 - 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
12 - Salt, to taste
13 - Black pepper, to taste

→ Optional Thickener

14 - 1 tablespoon cornstarch
15 - 2 tablespoons cold water

# How to Make It:

01 - In a large soup pot or Dutch oven, cook chopped turkey bacon over medium heat until crisp. Remove bacon and set aside, keeping about 1 tablespoon bacon drippings in the pot.
02 - Add olive oil to the pot. Sauté diced onion for 2 to 3 minutes until soft. Stir in minced garlic, sliced carrots, and celery. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes until vegetables are tender.
03 - Pour in chicken broth. Stir in Italian seasoning, salt, and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
04 - Reduce heat to low and stir in half-and-half. For a thicker consistency, mix cornstarch with cold water and add to the pot. Simmer for 2 to 3 minutes.
05 - Add shredded cheddar cheese and stir until melted and smooth. Return cooked turkey bacon to the pot. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
06 - Stir in potato gnocchi and simmer until gnocchi is tender and soup is heated through. Serve hot.

# Extra Suggestions:

01 - For a richer flavor, use sharp cheddar and garnish with additional cooked bacon or fresh herbs before serving.