Creamy Chicken Bacon Gnocchi Soup: A Comfort Soup with Cheesy Goodness 🥣🧀🥓

1. Introduction

If you’re craving a warm, hearty, and cheesy soup that combines tender chicken, crispy bacon, and fluffy gnocchi, then this creamy gnocchi soup recipe is perfect for you. Also known as chicken bacon gnocchi soup, this comfort soup embodies everything you love about cozy dinners, packed with rich flavors and silky textures. Whether you’re making it for a family dinner or a comforting solo meal, this soup is guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and leave you feeling nourished. Let’s dive into how to create this delicious cheesy soup from scratch!

2. Ingredients for Creamy Chicken Bacon Gnocchi Soup

1 lb (450g) cooked chicken breast, shredded
6 slices of bacon, chopped and cooked until crispy
1 package (16 oz) of gnocchi
1 medium onion, diced
3 garlic cloves, minced
4 cups chicken broth
1 cup heavy cream
2 cups shredded mozzarella or cheddar cheese
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon dried thyme
Salt and black pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making Creamy Gnocchi Soup

Prepare the ingredients

Start by cooking and shredding the chicken breast. Cook the bacon until crispy, then chop it into small pieces. Dice the onion and mince the garlic. Set all ingredients aside for easy access as you cook.

Sauté the aromatics

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-5 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Build the soup base

Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a simmer. Add the dried thyme, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine.

Cook the gnocchi and chicken

Add the gnocchi to the simmering broth. Cook according to package instructions, usually about 2-3 minutes until they float. Meanwhile, stir in the shredded chicken and half of the cooked bacon.

Make it creamy and cheesy

Reduce heat to low, then stir in the heavy cream and shredded cheese. Continue stirring until the cheese melts completely, creating a luscious, cheesy soup. Adjust seasoning with salt and pepper as needed.

Finish with bacon and garnish

Top the soup with the remaining bacon pieces and freshly chopped parsley. Serve hot and enjoy the rich, cheesy goodness of this comfort soup.

4. Storage Tips for Leftover Creamy Gnocchi Soup

Allow the soup to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. Store in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm on the stove over low heat, stirring occasionally. For longer storage, consider freezing in portions—just note that gnocchi might become a bit softer upon thawing.

5. Serving Suggestions for the Best Comfort Soup

This cheesy soup pairs beautifully with crusty bread or garlic bread for an extra comforting meal. You can also add a side of roasted vegetables or a mixed green salad to balance the richness. For an extra kick, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or hot sauce on top.

If you’re interested in exploring other cozy recipes, check out this festive Christmas bread or indulge in a sweet treat with chocolate croissant breakfast bake.

6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I use frozen gnocchi for this cream gnocchi soup?

Yes, frozen gnocchi works perfectly and is a quick option. Just add them directly to the simmering broth and cook until they float, about 2-3 minutes.

What are suitable substitutions for heavy cream?

You can substitute heavy cream with half-and-half or coconut milk for a lighter version. However, be aware that this may slightly change the richness of the soup.

Is this recipe suitable for a low-carb diet?

Traditional gnocchi are high in carbs. For a low-carb alternative, try cauliflower gnocchi or zucchini noodles, and skip the bread side to keep it light.

How long does it take to prepare this creamy chicken bacon gnocchi soup?

Including prep time, it takes approximately 30-40 minutes to make this comforting soup from scratch.

7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe

Investing in the right kitchen tools can significantly improve your cooking experience. Here are some recommended gadgets:

Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer: Perfect for crispy bacon and quick meal prep, this versatile air fryer makes cooking easier and healthier.
T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set: Offers durable, nonstick cookware for sautéing and simmering your soup to perfection.
Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo: Use it for crisping bacon or grilling chicken for the soup – a true multi-tasker in the kitchen.
KitchenAid Artisan 5-Quart Stand Mixer: Ideal for easy mixing and shredding chicken or preparing the base ingredients.

8. Conclusion

Enjoying a bowl of creamy gnocchi soup is like wrapping yourself in a warm blanket on a chilly day. This chicken bacon gnocchi soup combines the richness of cheese, the smokiness of bacon, and the comforting texture of gnocchi into one delightful dish. Perfect for weeknights or special occasions, this comfort soup is sure to become a family favorite. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can create a hearty, cheesy soup that warms both your body and soul.

Creamy Chicken Bacon Gnocchi Soup