This creamy gnocchi soup is warm and comforting, perfect for chilly days! Packed with tender gnocchi, veggies, and a rich broth, it’s like a hug in a bowl!
I love how quick it is to make—just a one-pot wonder! And trust me, once you taste it, you’ll want to invite all your friends over to share, or you know, keep it all for yourself! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Bacon: Chopped bacon adds a delicious smoky flavor. If you’re looking for a lighter option or following a vegetarian diet, try using smoked tempeh or mushroom bacon for a similar taste.
Chicken Broth: A rich chicken broth enhances the soup’s flavor, but vegetable broth works just as well for those avoiding meat. Homemade broth is fantastic, but store-bought is perfectly fine for convenience!
Gnocchi: The potato gnocchi gives this soup its heartiness. You can use store-bought or make your own if you’re feeling adventurous! For a gluten-free option, look for gluten-free gnocchi made from alternative flours.
Heavy Cream: For a lighter version, swap heavy cream for half-and-half or even coconut milk for a different flavor, though the soup may be less creamy.
How Do You Cook Gnocchi Perfectly?
Cooking gnocchi can be tricky. They are delicate, so it’s essential not to overcook them. Follow these simple steps:
- Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Add the gnocchi and watch closely; they typically float within 2-3 minutes, indicating they are done.
- Once they float, use a slotted spoon to remove them from the water and add them to your soup. If you want extra crispiness, sauté them in a skillet with a bit of oil or butter until golden.
This little tip adds a nice texture, giving every bowl that special touch. Enjoy your cooking!
How to Make Creamy Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small yellow onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1 (16 oz) package potato gnocchi
- 3 cups fresh baby spinach
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese, plus more for garnish
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil or butter (optional, for cooking gnocchi if desired)
- Crusty bread, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This creamy gnocchi soup takes about 30 minutes to make from start to finish. You’ll spend about 10 minutes prepping your ingredients and 20 minutes cooking and assembling everything, making it a quick and delightful meal option!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot or Dutch oven, cook the chopped bacon over medium heat until it’s nice and crispy. Once done, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon pieces and place them on paper towels to drain excess fat. Leave the bacon fat in the pot to add flavor to your soup!
2. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
Add the diced onion to the pot where the bacon fat is. Sauté the onion over medium heat until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add in the minced garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until it’s fragrant. This will make your kitchen smell amazing!
3. Add the Broth and Gnocchi:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, add the gnocchi to the pot. Cook the gnocchi according to the package instructions—typically they will float to the top when they are done, which usually takes about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in the Spinach:
Reduce the heat to low and stir in the fresh spinach. Allow the spinach to wilt into the soup for about 2 minutes; its vibrant green color will brighten the dish!
5. Incorporate Cream and Cheese:
Once the spinach is wilted, stir in the heavy cream and grated Parmesan cheese until everything is well combined. Season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Let it simmer gently for another 2-3 minutes to heat through.
6. Optional Step for Added Texture:
If you prefer, in a small skillet, you can sauté the cooked gnocchi in a bit of olive oil or butter until they turn golden brown. This adds a delightful texture and a little crunch to the dish!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the soup hot, topped with the crispy bacon pieces, extra Parmesan cheese, and a sprinkle of freshly ground black pepper. Nothing pairs better with this soup than slices of crusty bread for dipping!
This soup is rich, creamy, and loaded with comforting flavors and textures—perfect for a cozy meal!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi in This Recipe?
Absolutely! Just add the frozen gnocchi directly into the boiling broth without thawing first. They may take an extra minute to cook, but they will still turn out delightful.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Yes! Simply substitute the bacon with sautéed mushrooms or smoked tempeh for that smoky flavor. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and you’re all set!
How Do I Store Leftover Soup?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream if it looks too thick.
Can I Add Other Vegetables?
Definitely! Feel free to customize your soup by adding other veggies like carrots, celery, or bell peppers. Just make sure to sauté them with the onions to enhance their flavors!