This creamy gnocchi soup is like a warm hug in a bowl! With soft gnocchi, tender veggies, and a rich, smooth broth, it’s super comforting and just what you need on a chilly day.
I love how each spoonful feels so cozy and delicious! Add some crusty bread on the side, and you’ll find it hard to stop at just one bowl. Yum! 🍲🥖
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Gnocchi: The star ingredient is obviously the gnocchi! If you’re gluten-free, look for gluten-free gnocchi made from rice flour or potato starch. It’s just as delicious!
Bacon: I love the smoky flavor that bacon brings. If you want a lighter or vegetarian option, you can use turkey bacon or omit it altogether, using smoked paprika for that flavor kick instead.
Chicken Broth: You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version. Homemade broth is great, but store-bought works just fine when you’re short on time!
Heavy Cream: This provides richness, but you can swap it with half-and-half or coconut cream for a lighter or dairy-free option. If you cut back, just be careful not to reduce creaminess too much.
How Do I Get the Bacon Nice and Crispy?
Getting crispy bacon is crucial for this soup’s texture. Follow these steps for perfect results:
- Start with a cold pan and add the chopped bacon; this helps render the fat evenly.
- Cook over medium heat, allowing the fat to render slowly, stirring occasionally for even cooking.
- Once crisp, drain on paper towels to soak up excess grease, which keeps your soup from becoming too oily.
Trust me, those crispy bits will elevate every spoonful of the soup!
What’s the Best Way to Add Spinach?
Adding spinach at the right time is key to keeping its vibrant color and texture. Here’s how to do it:
- After adding the gnocchi and cooking until tender, toss in the chopped spinach.
- Stir and cook just until wilted, which should take about 1-2 minutes. Overcooking can make spinach mushy, and we want it fresh!
This ensures your soup looks great and offers that nice pop of freshness!
How to Make Creamy Gnocchi Soup
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Soup:
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 6 slices bacon, chopped
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium carrots, diced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 (16 oz) package refrigerated gnocchi
- 2 cups fresh baby spinach, roughly chopped
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
Getting this delicious creamy gnocchi soup ready will take about 15 minutes of prep time and about 20 minutes of cooking time. So, in total, you’re looking at around 35 minutes before you can enjoy this warm, hearty bowl of goodness!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Cook the Bacon:
In a large pot, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped bacon and let it cook until crispy, stirring occasionally. Once crispy, use a slotted spoon to remove the bacon, placing it on a paper towel to drain any extra grease. Leave the rendered fat in the pot, as it adds great flavor.
2. Sauté the Vegetables:
Next, add the diced onion and carrots to the pot. Sauté them for about 5 minutes or until softened. The aroma from the veggies will be delightful!
3. Add Garlic:
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional 1 minute. Just wait until you smell that garlic—it means it’s nearly time to put everything together!
4. Add Chicken Broth:
Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low and let it simmer for 10 minutes. This step allows all those wonderful flavors to come together!
5. Cook the Gnocchi:
Now, add the refrigerated gnocchi to the pot. Cook according to the package instructions, which is usually about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know they’re done when they float to the surface—perfect!
6. Stir in the Spinach:
Add the fresh baby spinach and stir until it wilts, which should take about 1-2 minutes. The spinach adds a beautiful green color and a fresh taste!
7. Add Cream:
Pour in the heavy cream and let it simmer gently for another 3-5 minutes. This step really brings the creaminess you’re looking for in this soup. Give it a little stir now and then!
8. Add Parmesan and Season:
Now, stir in the grated Parmesan cheese until it melts and combines beautifully. Season your soup with salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste. Yum!
9. Serve & Enjoy:
Your Creamy Gnocchi Soup is ready to be served! Ladle it into bowls and top each serving with reserved crispy bacon pieces. You can sprinkle a little more Parmesan and cracked black pepper on top if you like. Pair it with some crusty bread on the side, and you’ve got a delicious, cozy meal!
This creamy and comforting soup combines tender potato gnocchi, crispy bacon, fresh spinach, and a rich creamy broth—a perfect treat for chilly days. Enjoy every warm bite!
Can I Use Frozen Gnocchi in This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen gnocchi! Just add them directly to the pot without thawing, increasing the cooking time slightly by a minute or two until they are tender and float to the surface.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover soup in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it gently on the stove over low heat or in the microwave. You may want to add a splash of broth or cream to thin it out since the soup may thicken when stored.
Can I Make This Soup Vegetarian?
Absolutely! To make a vegetarian version, substitute the bacon with olive oil or smoked paprika for flavor, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and keep the rest of the recipe as is. You’ll still get a delicious creamy soup!
What Can I Add for Extra Flavor?
If you want to amp up the flavor, consider adding some Italian seasoning, crushed red pepper flakes for a bit of heat, or even a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for brightness. Fresh herbs like basil or parsley can also elevate the dish!