Why Make This Recipe
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a great choice for several reasons. First, it combines rich flavors that really comfort you. The crispy bacon, creamy cheese, and soft gnocchi all blend together nicely. It's perfect for chilly evenings or when you just need a cozy meal. Plus, it's quite easy to prepare, making it a great option for beginner cooks. You will impress your family or friends with this delicious soup!
How to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Making Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is straightforward. Below are the ingredients you will need, followed by the cooking directions.
Ingredients:
- 8-10 slices bacon, cooked and chopped
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil
- 1 large onion, diced
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1-2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 4 cloves minced garlic)
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½-1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional)
- 16 oz gnocchi
- 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp)
Directions:
- Start by cooking the bacon until it is crispy. Once it's done, chop it into smaller pieces and set it aside.
- In a large pot, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced carrots. Sauté them until they become tender, which usually takes about 5 minutes.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle simmer.
- Now, stir in the heavy cream, along with salt, black pepper, garlic powder (or minced garlic), dried thyme, and optional red chili flakes. Keep stirring as you mix everything well.
- Add the gnocchi to the pot and let it cook for about 2 minutes, or until it gets soft.
- Finally, stir in the chopped bacon. Taste your soup and adjust the seasoning if needed. Serve the soup hot and enjoy!
How to Serve Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
To serve your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup, ladle it into bowls while it's still warm. You can sprinkle some extra shredded cheddar cheese on top for added flavor. A side of crusty bread or a simple salad pairs well with the soup if you want to make it a complete meal. Enjoy it with family and friends for a cozy dining experience!
How to Store Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
If you have leftovers, you can store your Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup in an airtight container. Place it in the refrigerator, and it should last for about 3 to 4 days. When you're ready to eat, just reheat it on the stove until it's warm throughout. Be cautious that the gnocchi may absorb some broth, so you might need to add a little extra chicken broth or cream when reheating to return it to its original creamy state.
Tips to Make Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
- Crispy Bacon: Make sure not to rush the bacon cooking process. Crispy bacon adds lots of flavors and texture to the soup.
- Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh vegetables for the best taste.
- Mix Cheese: If you want a different flavor, try mixing different types of cheese like mozzarella or pepper jack with the cheddar.
- Gnocchi Options: You can used store-bought gnocchi or make your own if you want. Both work well in this recipe.
Variation
If you want to make this recipe lighter, you can use low-fat versions of heavy cream and cheese. You can also add more vegetables, such as spinach or peas, for extra nutrition. If you love spice, consider adding jalapeños or using a spicier cheese to amp up the flavor.
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen gnocchi?
Yes, frozen gnocchi works well in this recipe. Just add it directly into the pot without thawing it first.
2. What can I use instead of bacon?
If you want a vegetarian option, you can leave out the bacon and add some smoked paprika for a hint of smokiness.
3. Can I freeze this soup?
It is not recommended to freeze gnocchi soup as the gnocchi can become mushy once thawed. However, you can freeze the soup without the gnocchi and add fresh gnocchi when you're ready to serve.
Conclusion
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup is a simple yet delicious meal that brings warmth and comfort. With easy steps and common ingredients, anyone can make this delightful dish. It's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. Try this recipe and enjoy a bowl of creamy goodness today!
Bacon Cheddar Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 8-10 slices bacon, cooked and chopped Crispy bacon adds flavor and texture.
- 1 tablespoon butter or olive oil For sautéing.
- 1 large onion, diced Use fresh for best flavor.
- 2 large carrots, peeled and sliced Fresh vegetables enhance taste.
- 4 cups chicken broth Use low-sodium for a healthier option.
- 1-2 teaspoons salt Adjust to taste.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder (or 4 cloves minced garlic) Adds depth of flavor.
- ¼ teaspoon dried thyme
- ½-1 teaspoon red chili flakes (optional) For added spice.
- 16 oz gnocchi Store-bought or homemade.
- 2 cups heavy cream or half-and-half For creaminess.
- 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese (medium or sharp) Mix with other types for variations.
Instructions
Preparation
- Cook the bacon until crispy. Once done, chop it into smaller pieces and set aside.
- In a large pot, heat the butter or olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sliced carrots, and sauté until tender (about 5 minutes).
Cooking
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in the heavy cream, salt, black pepper, garlic powder (or minced garlic), dried thyme, and optional red chili flakes. Mix well.
- Add the gnocchi to the pot and cook for about 2 minutes, or until soft.
- Finally, stir in the chopped bacon. Adjust seasoning if needed and serve hot.
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